We have dealt elsewhere with the situation in the Unionist
party created by Mr. Chamberlain's action, and will only say here that though a split has not yet actually taken place in the party, and will not take place unless the other side in the controversy proceed to action—any active campaign of instruction and conversion by the Protectionists would, of course, be action—the situation is most serious. The leaders of the Unionist and Imperialist Free-traders are anxious above all things to preserve the integrity of the party, and will not hesitate to make any personal sacrifice to secure that end. A sacrifice of principle they will not and cannot make, because they believe the whole future of the party as an instru- ment for promoting the welfare of the nation and the Empire to depend on its being pledged to a policy of Free- trade and opposed to a policy of Protection. If, therefore, Mr. Chamberlain or his allies insist on attempting to conduct what will in fact, whatever its name, be a Protectionist campaign, the Unionist Free-traders will meet such action at all points with an organisation in the interests of Free-trade. That Mr. Chamberlain and his followers will refuse in the end to accept the responsibility for such action we still hope against hope. If, however, they do accept it, and cast down the challenge, they may rest assured that the Unionist Free- traders will take it up, and will spare no sacrifice to defend principles which they believe are as vital to the welfare of the party as of the Empire.
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