PRESIDENT WILSON'S hiLSTAKE.
[To TOO Exam OF SOO ..ersersres-"] Si,—Is it quite fair to say that President Wilson "baa made the fatal mistake of letting himself be governed by worde " ? You, Mr. Editor, "are strongly inclined to think that" abstention front interference by force of arms "ii the right attitude for Americans to adopt" ; but you find fault with their Government for observing neutrality in respect of the public expression of opinion and sentiment. It nay be that America is, by reason of her geographical position, too far outside the circle of civilized nations to be called upon to take an active part in checking crimes against civilization and humanity. If this is so, is she likely to do much good by verbal denunciation of the criminal ? Does she not better consult her own dignity by holding her tongue? The occupier of a detached and well-protected villa may decide that it is not his business to help in suppressing a mad dog that is career- ing down the high street. Such a policy of non-intervention may—or may not—be deserving of admiration. But is it reasonable to complain of the Mall for not scolding the mad dog ?—I am, Sir, dm.,
[It is the woad boast of Ammica that she has led the
opinion of the world in many matters of public right and public morality. But how can she maintain the position if she is not to speak out on the moral issues of the present war or is to treat them as matters which do not concern her P A Quaker may be resolved to keep the peace at all costs, but this resolve does not oblige him to keep silent in the face of wrongdoing. He admonishes though he does not shoot. We want Dr. Wilson to remain at peace, but we do not want to see him muzzle America on the moral question.—En. Spectator.]
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