Lord Wemyss was followed by Lord Cromer in a speech
of great force and weight. We cannot repeat all his arguments, but must quote verbatim the passage in which he warned the House of the danger of weakening our financial position while the condition of Europe is what it is :—
" What, I would ask, in the present condition of Europe, is the main duty which devolves on the Government of this country ? For my own part, I have no sort of hesitation in replying to this question. Their main duty is to make provision betimes for the European conflict which may not improbably be forced on us before many years have elapsed. I am aware that the mass of the people of this country, who do not follow foreign affairs with any very close attention, are not alive to the possibility of any such conflict taking place. I say it is the duty of a Government gifted with both patriotism and foresight, who have means of information at their disposal which is not available to the general public, to provide betimes for that danger,—a danger of which I, in common, I believe, with most people who can speak with real authority on foreign affairs, am very firmly convinced. My Lords, I am now treading on delicate ground. It is neither necessary nor desirable that I should state at length my reason for holding this opinion. I will only say that, in order to justify it, it is quite unnecessary to impugn the good faith of those high authorities abroad who con- stantly reiterate their peaceful intentions. Neither is it necessary to hold that any deliberate intentions hostile to this country exist. We are, however, living in times when the influence of individuals, however highly placed, is limited. When national interests are involved and race passions are excited there is always a risk, and more than a risk, that a collision between rival nations will take place, however pacific may be the intentions of their rulers. Let me add that if, as I believe will be the case, the enactment of this law imperils the cause of Free-trade, the chances of a collision will be materially increased."
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