LETTERS TO THE EDITOR.
THE MOBILIZATION OF WILL-POWER. [To THZ EDITOR 05 THZ " SPECTATOR:1 SIB,—The day of intercession and affirmation has long ago passed, and, so far as I know, nothing has been done towards mobilizing the forces other than physical of the Empire. Intercession and affirmation of determination to fight for the triumph of the right is altogether good, but it is not sufficient. Supplication should be added; and intercession, affirmation,
supplication should be an unceasing function of the human spirit, not merely an annual ceremony.
Many believe in the efficacy of prayer. Doubtless many do not. To some "God Save the King " is a direct appeal to the Almighty, while to others it is a somewhat illiterate declara- tion of patriotism. But however that may be, the number of those who deny that concentrated focussed will and aspire/rim may react materially upon human affairs is, I think, very small. A great force is latent in the Empire and should be utilized. It may be argued that both sides believe in the righteousness of their cause, and who can judge between them ? We believe in the righteousness of our cause. So do our enemies —be it conceded; but at least we are justified in praying for the triumph of right over wrong, of good over evil, of principles, whatever they may be, that work for the better- ment of mankind, and let God be the judge. Both sides invoke the Almighty. It must bo admitted that the God the Germans appeal to ie the tribal war-god of Scandinavian mythology, and to that God they have presented a dreadful burnt-offering of frightfulness. The God we worship is above all the God of Love. Onr appeal must be for the triumph of Love, for the protection and comfort of the dear men fighting for us. " God punish England!" rises incessantly from German lips and hearts. May not we counter it with " God protect England!" P We cannot emulate Germany in cursing our enemies, but surely we may petition for the safety and comfort of our men fighting, dying, suffering for what we believe to be right, and for the consolation of those who suffer with them. The battle is not always to the strong. Physical force is not everything. What is needed is a petition offering undying gratitude to our men, praying for their safety, and expressing concentrated will for the triumph of the right—a short petition to be need at stated times, and one that can be honestly used by all the people of our wide Empire. A great will-force would thus be launched rising towards the throne of the Almighty which, as I believe, must, on both religious and scientific grounds, be
helpful.—I am, Sir, &o., DIINIZASEN. [" God protect England !" is a fine motto, but better still is "God forgive Germany!"--the motto that the English gardener wrote upon his medal.—En. Spectator.]
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