of the multitude there is neither _legal_ nor _moral_
compulsion; there is merely a loss of _resisting power_, a diminished
sense of personal responsibility of the duty to battle for one's own
opinion, such as has been bred in some people, by the belief of an over
mastering fate." [2]

One can readily grasp the dangers of Public Opinion at the mercy of
blatant agitators and unscrupulous leaders. They have no idea to
promote, but only a feeling to exploit. They flatter Public Opinion to
gain it. They appear to consult it when in reality they are creating
and directing it. They catch the restless and undirecting currents of
popular feeling when they are seeking an outlet and swing them slowly
at first but with a growing impetus in the channels of their own
interest or of the party they represent. The people are deluded into
thinking that they are their own leaders and masters. The feeling of
unrest that now prevails is due to this abuse of Public Opinion. Like
children the leaders of nations have been playing with this wire of
high voltage. Should we be surprised to see the world suffer deadly
shocks from whence it should receive light and power?

We are now at one of the most momentous periods of history. Never
have clear thinking, earnest expression and concerted action been more
needed than now. The world is ringing with wild words and dying from
loose thinking. "The persistent statement of principles and the union
of all true conservative forces are absolutely necessary, if we wish to
bring the nation safe through this agonizing period and make the world
safe for democracy," as President Wilson said.

Therefore we claim that it is for the greatest benefit of the community
at large to have Public Opinion enlightened as to the value of the
Church as a reconstructive factor.

"_Great have been the Problems of War_!" But, with Clemenceau, we also
are realizing--and some countries, with bitter deception and depressing
sorrow, "_That greater still are the Problems of Peace_."

[1] Vol. II., Chap. II.

[2] Bryce--"The American Commonwealth," Vol. II., Chap. 84.

CHAPTER XIV.

TRUTH SHALL MAKE YOU FREE[1]

(Jo. VIII, 32)

_Facts--Principles--Policy of the Catholic Truth Society--Its value for
the Church in Western Canada._

Truth and liberty, error and license are inseparable partners. The
measure of truth gives the measure of true liberty, just as the degree of
error tells the degree