DEFENCE OF THE EMPIRE

Gisborne Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2083, 18 May 1907, Page 2

DEFENCE OF THE EMPIRE

AUSTRALIA’S SHARE

Press A ssocia tion—Copyright. Received Alay 17, 9.50 p.m. -V, *, . LONDON, lAiay 1/. Aii. ucalvin iiad an immense ovation at Queen’s Hall, lie said Australians were doing their best to fit themselves for any extraordinary emergency, though lie believed that whilst the British navy remained they could sit secure in their own domain. They had not-dwelt on maitidl pictures or encouraged milinfiji.e ISI ay V bu j tLey folt the time might come to the most peaceful of citizens when concession and passivity become unmanly, and force must be applied. They were doing their best to prepare themselves to dis, charge m full measure their responsibilities to their country and King He explained Australia’s system of cadet rifle clubs. They wore doing their utmost to develop individual responsibility. Lord Alilner, who was loudly cheered, moved a vote of thanks to Air. Deakin, whom lie complimented in the wannest terms, dwelling on tho amazing capacity for work and the immensity of his labors during tho past weeks. . „ T-he Hon. AV. P. Reeve and Aliv Balfour also spoke. “ ,

Received Alay 17, 11.27 p.m. . Lord Milner continued: I do not suppose we all agree with Air. Deakm s opinions, though- personally I do not find myself in disagreement with any of liis* views., but I am sure 5“. "'pi admit that his presence • in Britain, his spirit, his personality, have given an immense impulse t-o tho idea of what! is* called* -“lmperial.” hut wlmt I prefer to call ‘‘National” unity. Air. Deakiii Was cpinpibnly supposed to havo beep treated to a certain amount of official- cold water, probably more unexpected than anything else. lie will be more than compensated in tho warmth of welcome lie is certain to receive in any assembly of unofficial Britons to whatover part of tho world ho goes. , * l! \ s "’° ll himself a permanent place m tho minds and affections of tlio British people. (Cheers.) Lord Roberts also thanked Air. Deakin.