Another calumny, continued Mr. Chamberlain, was the allegation that the
Johannesburgers would repudiate their share in the cost of the war,—that they alone in the British Empire would fail in their duty. For himself, he could not believe that those who had faced danger and suffering with such bravery would now show that they cared more for their purses than they did for their lives. He called them to witness that the Mother-country had done her duty by them. "When you appealed for help, did she shrink from the call ? She answered without hesitation. She has poured out blood and treasure without stint She has vindicated her place in the eyes of the world, and justified her claims to the headship of the British race." Mr. Chamberlain's frank and courageous speech made an excellent impression. Indeed, the Radical Press admit that the British taxpayer could not possibly have had a more convincing advocate. The greater part of his stay in Johannesburg, we may add, is being devoted to the attempt to see everybody whose information or sugges- tions are likely to be useful. As regards his further plans, it is announced that be will go to Potchefstroom by rail, and thence trek to Mafeking. From Mafeking he will take the train to Kimberley, and thence trek to Bloemfontein.
