AMERICA BEHIND ENGLAND.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2510, 25 May 1909, Page 6

AMERICA BEHIND ENGLAND.

A WARNING TO EUROPE

The “New York Sun” printed on the 23rd March a remarkable leading article in “double leads,” a style of display which it habitually reserves for matters of primary importance. In this article a warning is given to Germany that she must reckon on America’s antagonism if she attempts to break the peace with England. The “New York Sun” is in very close touch with the President, Mr Taft, and there is no room for doubt that this article defines exactly the attitude of the Administration in Washington. The leader, which is headed “The English P pie and Ourselves,” after discussing need of a strong navy for Austi says:—

“At the present time England as well he without a navy so

concerns the protection of Austral a. It is impossible for her navy to leave home waters; even a diversion to the Mediterranean of any considerable body of warships is out of the question. “The conviction is unshakeable that Germany would seize the occasion to strike the fatal blow at British supremacy on the seas, and it is undoubtedly only too true that such is the case. If England were commercially negligible as a rival and had divested herself of Colonial responsibilities- as her present Government appears to desire, Germany would abate her naval pretensions at once.

“That element of British public opinion which is not immersed in fictitious Socialism or blinded by historical altruism which finds expression in the relinquishment of South Africa to the Boers, which does not exult in universal paternalism, must presently reach and resume its former supremacy. When it does, and when there is an. end of sentimental profligacy, the reintegration of race solidarity may occur which will bring Great Britain again into relations with her Colonies. To such a consummation. it is impossible we should be indifferent. England’s children are a mighty multitude. , Animated by a common impulse, and in obedience to an awakened emotion of nationality and heredity, it would be a singular contingency in which they did not prevail. The union of Britons is more profoundly a concern of this country than any other phenomenon possible, to humanity.”