20 DECEMBER 1919, Page 3

Mr. Balfour, presiding on Friday week at a Conference called

by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, wisely reminded his audience that there is no short cut to great results. Science cannot be applied to industry with full effect unless in the first place pure science is cultivated for its own sake without ulterior objects. The application of scientific discoveries to manufacture is of high importance. But we must not forget that the discoveries are more important still, and therefore that we must " strive to heed and to educate men who, without any thought of self-advancement, are con- sumed by a curiosity to know." The early history of wireless telegraphy illustrates the truth of Mr. Balfour's words.