THE FLEET VISIT.

King Country Chronicle, Volume II, Issue 93, 31 July 1908, Page 2

THE FLEET VISIT.

On the face of it there appears to be little connection between the visit of the American fleet and the defence of the Dominion. Still there is a cnnnection, and a most intimate one, as may be gleaned from the remarks of the public men in connection with the controversy as to whether the expense of entertaining the visitors is justified. One of the reasons advanced in justification is the eminently selfish one of having something to lean on, inasmuch as the Americans v/ill endeavour to keep command of the Pacific, and incidentally preclude the possibility of an Asiatic invasion. The sentiment does honour to the shrewdness of the person responsible for the statement, however it may be regarded in other respects. The possibility of increased Asiatic activity in the Pacific is universally acknowledged, and the fact of Britain being allied with Japan complicates the issue of a white Australasia. Considering everything the situation presents every conceivable argument in favour of placing •the Dominion in a position to defend its shores in case of any possible emergency. Such an object cannot be accomplished at once, but with the end in view, and the movement started on a sound basis our citizens can rest satisfied in the knowledge that in case of the Pacific becoming the arena of war, or in case of sudden isolation from protection by the British fleet, we should, within a few years be prepared to hold at bay any force likely to be sent against us. All this has nothing to do with the increased subsidy to the British Navy which is supported by every commonsense person. Patriotic to the Empire we may all be : our first duty is to be patriotic to the. Dominion, by placing it on a sound defensive footing, and thus make our patriotism worth something to the Empire.