In Dublin at the week-end I found an unexpected and
general apathy, qualified only by the huge Cosgrave meeting on Sunday afternoon in College Green. Estimates of the size of the crowd were, of course, contradictory, but it was certainly one of the largest political demonstra- tions I have seen in any city. The De Valera papers, naturally enough, made play with the immense force of police, and the presence of such adjuncts as the White Army. The fact was not to be denied : the helmets were everywhere. It was hardly surprising that the speakers got a very quiet hearing. Mr. Cosgrave read at the microphone a carefully composed statement of policy. It was as free from rhetoric as from all appeal to the mob spirit. The loud-speakers, which reproduced the voices in clear non-metallic tones (a most agreeable contrast to those of Moscow), enabled everyone in and
near the Green to hear perfectly. It was a telling proof of the thoroughness with which the microphone is doing its job. The crusader can still employ, and enjoy, the, ranting style while out in the field. But the speaker gt, a big demonstration must keep to the plain track of affirmation and argument. Even in Ireland the old. oratory is being killed.
Previous page
