The quarrel between the Province of Manitoba and the Dominion
of Canada is, considered on its merits, a very per- plexing one. We have alluded elsewhere to the lesson it teaches as to the dangers of subordinate Legislative Assemblies. Though we are inclined to think that, on the whole, there is a good deal to be said in favour of the Province, it must be remembered that, were the action of the Dominion Government successful, it would by no means cut off Winnipeg from all intercourse with the United States. Already two lines of railway run down the Red. River Valley,—both are, however, controlled by the Canadian Pacific line. It is thus a competing line that the Manitobans need and are determined to have. The monopoly claimed by the Canadian Pacific line, and its high rates for freight, is the real grievance. It is very much to be hoped that actual conflict will be avoided. We can hardly believe that a satisfactory com- promise cannot somehow be effected.
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