2 APRIL 1904, Page 3

But though Mr. Balfour remains inscrutable if judged by his

words, his acts speak loudly as to the real nature of this strange thing he calls progressive Free-trade. Progressive Free-trade is, we know, something which is absolutely incom- patible with the Free-trade that is supported by the Duke of Devonshire. On the other hand, it is compatible with the entire agreement with his father's policy professed by Mr. Austen Chamberlain. Again, Progressive Free-trade enables its advocates to take the action taken by the Government on the Wharton amendment. In fact, whatever may be the verbal definition of progressive Free-trade, when it is put in practice it means supporting. Protection and opposing Free-trade.