As for Imperial defence, it was recognized by both parties
that Imperialism was the best security for local nationalism. Political parties might differ as to the precise methods of co-operation, but "the fundamental proposal that Canada, like the other self-governing Dominions of the Crown, is a partner in a whole, and that the whole must be defended if necessary by Canadian money and Canadian lives—no less than English, Scotch, Welsh, Irish, New Zealand, Australian, Newfoundland, and South African—is affirmed by Tories and Liberals alike." In an interesting passage Lord Grey ex- plained the attitude of the French-speaking Canadians. Their opposition to Canada's participation in the naval defence of the Empire was due to an exaggerated idea of the Empire's omnipotence; but it was only temporary,
and, he believed, would be removed by a patient process of education. He admitted that the interests of the Empire might require before long some organic union to prevent the magnetic influence of common ideals from ever growing weak, but he deprecated any attempts to force the pace of natural evolution. They must not weaken the growing tree of future Imperial strength by premature tappings. Rather should they feed and water its roots with generous and ungrudging sympathy. The speech is one of the frankest, sanest, most generous, and most stimulating ever delivered in regard to the Empire. Lord Grey is proud of Canada, and Canada should be equally proud of him.
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