Mr. Bonar Law's first public speech as leader, delivered at
a great Unionist meeting at Leeds on Thursday, was in every way of good omen. In the first place the reception accorded to him showed in the most unmistakable way that the party is determined to be united and to forgive and forget all past controversies. Mr. Bonar Law's speech showed a wise and liberal temper—a Whig spirit of the best kind, if he will allow us to say so, as we think he will, considering that he chose a quotation from Burke to illustrate his political ideal—" a dis- position to preserve and an ability to improve." But though thankful for this proof that he is a man of moderation and reason, mita party hack who wishes to outbid his rivals at the auction for public office, we are even more thankful for the fact that he places the maintenance of the Union above all other issues. Further he laid proper emphasis on what we are certain is the issue which, if pressed, must destroy any Home Rule Bill, namely, the issue of Ulster. To those who justify Home Rule on the ground of nationality, he replied that in Ireland there was not one nation but two. That is a fact which the mass of English and Scotch people do not yet properly realize. Once make them realize it, and the case for Home Rule falls like the walls of Jericho.
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