Boy Scouts We must . mention again the triumphant gathering
of Boy Scouts at Birkenhead. The weather was bad for them, but they light-heartedly overcame its trials. Princes, Bishops, and such distinguished foreigners as Marshal Lyautey have visited the encamp- ment and seen the spirit of scouting put into action. The mere orderly conduct of such a camp is probably the greatest example of this spirit, apart from all the entertainment offered to visitors and felldw-scouts. The Roman Catholic and Anglican services held on two Sundays are proof enough of the* Christian and anti- militarist spirit that, while sharpening the wits of boys and making their fun useful, teaches them to honour all men, to love the brotherhood, to fear God, and to honour the King, or whatever authority is over them. The peerage conferred by His Majesty on General Baden-Powell is no belated honour for such ser- vices as the defence of Mafeking, but a recognition of a unique and benefiCent work of peace, inspired by one man and carried on by him to the good of mankind. He has taken it as a royal encouragement to every scout and guide.
*
Previous page
