The only other matter of special importance contained in the
speeches was Mr. Balfour's announcement in regard to the alliance between the two sections of the Unionist party. "It was once an alliance," said Mr. Balfour; "it is now an indissoluble union. And although my right hon. friend the Colonial Secretary and I are appearing to-day upon one plat- form, let it not be supposed that it is possible by that or any other Sign to indicate a closer union than that which does exist, and for many years has existed, between the members of this party." That is, of course, an absolute fact. There is no real division between Liberal Unionists and Conservative Unionists. There are, necessarily, differences of opinion on Minor points, but when Unionists differ there are always Liberal Unionists and Conservative Unionists on both sides. This is as true in the Cabinet as among the rank-and-file. A Cabinet split on the lines of Liberal Unionists and Conserva- tives is unthinkable.
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