' The Durban Convention for the discussion of South African
union met on Monday. The opening speech was delivered by Sir H. Nathan, Governor of Natal. The proceedings were continued in private. The special correspondent of the Times says it is already evident that more work will be done outside than inside the Convention. The delegates hold group meetings outside to define their common policy inside. The correspondent thinks the Tranavaalers the most businesslike, and they are said to have the most capable staff of advisers and secretaries. The speeches at the first sitting were of a high standard, not disorderly conversations such as often take place at meetings held in secret. It is expected that the Convention will last at least three months. Sir Henry de Villiers, the President. has warned people not to expect a native policy from the Convention. We join with the Times correspondent in his apprehension lest this should prove an unwise postponement of the greatest of all difficulties. The best brains in South Africa are now at Durban. It is a pity that there should not be even a suggestion of a sound native policy. The Union Parliament in its early days ought not to have the whole onus of what may be an unpopular act, what- eve- form it may take.
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