NEWS OF THE WEEK.
pIIBLICI attention has been almost wholly occupied during the week by the difficulties of the Unionist Party. As we write we are confident that unity is on the point of being restored. The final solution depends upon a word from Mr. Bonar Law. It depends solely upon Mr. Bonar Law's willingness to remain in the leadership of the party; and it seems to us certain that if he really understands that his services are indispensable—and we sincerely believe that the whole Unionist Party regards them as nothing less—he will not dream of resigning his post. We do not in the least underrate his difficulties. They have been enormous. It is not at all easy for him to accept a new condition—even a condition which makes no substantial change in the Unionist programme—after what he said at Ashton. But those who look at the facts clearly must admit that it would not be a whit easier for any other member of the "Shadow Cabinet" to take up the leadership. All Mr. Bonar Law's Front Bench colleagues agreed to the policy stated at Ashton. A patriotic duty, if the situation is properly understood, requires Mr. Bonar Law to remain where he is. That he will recognize this we are certain, if only he is assured how firmly Unionists are united in their strong desire to have no other leader.
