We are still of opinion that by adopting this course
the Unionist leaders have not shown themselves very wise political strategists, and that they are running grave risks. Since, however, it is now clear what their decision is, we shall say no more in criticism. If it is the will of our leaders to accept the Maximum rather than the minimum lose of dignity and prestige we must acquiesce. No doubt Lord Lansdowne's position has been a very difficult one, and it is possible to imagine circumstances which may have rendered it necessary for him to choose not the best course but the second :best. That possibility, however, does not, make us in any way regret the policy we have recommended. Our business as loyal members of the Unionist Party was not, as we have pointed out elsewhere, to say what we thought our leaders might like or think convenient at the moment, butte speak what we believed to be the truth. If newspapers refrain from doing that, and state not their own views but merely what they believe to be their leaders' views, they are in fact depriving those leaders of the power of ganging public opinion.
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