s of conquest. "The German
Kaiser," he continued, "is ready for war as no would-be world conqueror
in the world's history has ever been ready. The German Kaiser cherishes
the purpose to make war, and this purpose is shared in and approved by
the whole body of the German people." These facts he challenged any
one to controvert. If these things were so, what should Canada do?
Manifestly one thing only--she should prepare to do her duty in
defending herself and the great Empire. "So far," he continued, "I have
raised no controversial points. I have purposely abstained from dealing
with questions that may be regarded from a partisan point of view. I
beg now to refer to a subject which unhappily has become a matter of
controversy in Canada--the subject, namely, of the construction of a
Canadian Navy. [Disturbance in various parts of the building.] You
have been patient. I earnestly ask you to be patient for a few moments
longer. Both political parties fortunately are agreed upon two points;
first, that Canada must do its share and is willing to do its share in
the defence of the Empire. On this point all Canadians are at one, all
Canadians are fully determined to do their full duty to the Empire which
has protected Canada during its whole history, and with which it is
every loyal Canadian's earnest desire to maintain political connection.
Second, Canada must have a Navy. Unfortunately, while we agree upon
these two points, there are two points upon which we differ. First,
we differ upon the method to be adopted in constructing our Navy and,
second, upon the question of Navy control in war. In regard to the
second point, I would only say that I should be content to leave the
settlement of that question to the event. When war comes that question
will speedily be settled, and settled, I am convinced, in a way
consistent with what we all desire to preserve, Canadian autonomy.
In regard to the first, I would be willing to accept any method of
construction that promised efficiency and speed, and with all my power
I oppose any method that necessitates delay. Considerations of such
questions as location of dockyards, the type of ship, the size of ship,
I contend, are altogether secondary. The main consideration is speed.
I leave these facts and arguments with you, and speaking not as a party
politician but simply as a loyal Canadian and as a loyal son of the
Empire, I would say, 'In God's name, for our country's honour and for
the sa