Five years ago the South African Party in the Union
joined, with the Unionist Party. Their leaders, Sir Thomas Smartt and General Smuts, could not prevail upon the Nationalists to come into their hereeniging on account' of their Republican professions. Now,, however, the idea of reunion is again abroad. The moderate Nationalists seem unwilling to follow General Hertzog in his native policy. The Labour Party, ow the other hand, may give him increased support if he is willing to accept it. The talk of reunion is likely to lead at any rate to a reorganization of parties. General Smuts has been speaking in the Orange Free State. and has said that he would withdraw from politics if it seemed to be the wish of the people that he should by so doing help the cause of good will. We should regret any loss" of his influence in South African or international politics.
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