Whatever the immediate outcome of the crisis, the break- up
of the Unionist party is now visible to the world. None feel more keenly than we• do the destruction of that party, which not three years ago was united, respected, and respect- able, but is now not merely a ruin but a derision. It is not, however, fair to place all the blame on Mr. Chamberlain, great though his responsibility undoubtedly is. Mr. Balfour aided and abetted, and though he may now be drawing back in terror at what he has done, sire can "neter forgeethat when Mr. Chamberlain left the Ministry Mr. Balfour bade him " God-speed" in his work.. We must also. reine-mbei the text : "He that biddeth him God-speed is partaker of his evil deeds." A little courage, a little sincerity in thought and deed, a little frank speaking, a little firmness, would have saved the party when in 1903 • Mr. Chamberlain launched his Fiscal policy. Instead of plain dealing, Mr. Balfour tried finesse, and we see the result.
