Toujours La Politique Sut—If the Spectator had set itself to
demonstrate its provinciality it •' could hardly have done so more thoroughly than by uttering one scornful sentence: "The question of State-aid for denominational schools is solemnly declared by all to be the crucial issue in French politics." But it is the crucial issue, and has been recognised as such for at least fifty , years. It divides the French nation far more deeply than any squabble over, economic theory or temporary constitutional structure. This is because It represents a reality ; in the last resort, whether France shall be Christian or not. The parties do right to be solemn, for a breach in , the principle of laicism will have consequences for us all.
Of course, comparatively little money is involved, and the effects—as in any matter of education—will not be fully felt for years. But make no mistake, Sir, the battle is over fundamentals, and to it our polite English party exchanges bear as much relation as a sparring match between schoolboys does to the Robinson-Turpin fight —Yours faithfully, [Would Christianity in France really have tailed for lack of £16,000,000 ?—En. Spectator.]
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