It was formally announced on Thursday that Mr. Bryce had
been appointed to succeed Sir Mortimer Durand as our Ambassador at Washington. Mr. Bryce's long and honour- able record in our politics, and his deep knowledge of American history, A merican institutions, and American public life, make the appointment one which cannot be otherwise than eminently satisfactory to the people of the United States. The fact that Mr. Bryce has been president of the Alpine Club, and in former years made some notable climbing records in various parts of the world, including the first ascent of Mount Ararat—or, at any rate, the first postdiluvian ascent—cannot fail to make him persona grata also to President Roosevelt. Mr. Bryce's credentials as regards the strenuous life must, indeed, be considered to be ample in every respect. We sincerely trust that he will be able to achieve a marked success in placing our diplomatic relations with America on a sound and lasting basis. If he can manage to settle the two or three outstanding points as regards Canada and Newfound- land, it is difficult to see where in the future serious friction between us and America can arise. It is stated that Mr. Bryce is to have the assistance of an able Canadian adviser, who will keep him informed of the views of the Canadian Government. That our Embassy at Washington should always act with complete knowledge of the views of the Dominion, and in the fullest sympathy with the Canadian Cabinet, is obviously of the first importance.
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