It is announced that Pretoria is to remain the capital
of the Transvaal, with the additional distinction of being the resi- dence of the High Commissioner for South Africa. From the standpoint of utility the claims of Johannesburg ranked higher, for to say nothing of its relaxing climate, Pretoria is an artificial capital, detached from the centre of industry, and as such calculated to foster the multiplication of political middlemen. The precedent of Washington is not altogether convincing. On the other hand, the decision is a graceful concession to Afrikander sentiment. To have converted or dismantled the fine Government buildings, adorned with portraits of Transvaal statesmen, would have been deeply resented by the Boers. The change would have given them a fresh grievance, and grievances are to be avoided even with those who do not appreciate magnanimity.
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