On Tuesday Mr, Chamberlain, addressing a mass meeting
in the Free-Trade Hall, Manchester, declared that Peelle& was only a symbol, and that the great issue was the control of the whole Valley of the Nile. Though the question of the exact boundaries might be a matter for historical inquiry, for geographical investigation, and for friendly discussion, there could be no compromise in regard to the preserving for Egypt the full control of her former possessions, and of "that great waterway upon which the life of Egypt depends.* We entirely agree with Mr. Chamberlain's main contention, but we have tried to suggest elsewhere a plan by which the evacuation by France of the upper portions of the Bahr.el- Ghazel might be made easy for her, and a buffer-State be placed between England and France in Central Africa. Mr. Chamberlain went on to point out how France, in Egypt and elsewhere, had for many years consistently played an unfriendly part to England, apparently with the idea that the game of lion-baiting was a perfectly safe pastime. Mr. Chamberlain's language was strong, but it is unfortunately entirely borne out by the facts. Mr. Chamberlain ended his speech by a defence of his position in regard to old-age pensions. He recognised the great difficulties of the problem, but he claimed to have advanced its solution, and he still entertained the hope that the Government, before it leaves office, will be able to do something to assist and to encourage provision for old age.
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