Among the Celestials : vol.1 / Page 113 (Grayscale High Resolution Image)

0113	Among the Celestials : vol.1

CHAP. Iv.] OUfR ENEMY. 87

should we regard the strong moral conviction

which is growing up that in these days of over-

crowding the resources of the rich portions of

the earth cannot be allowed to run to waste in

the hands of semi-civilised peoples who will not

develop them.

These tendencies we have to reckon with,

and if we decide that it is imprudent to oppose

them, then we must desist from our policy of

supporting uncivilised against civilised people.

We must be true to ourselves, and trust our

own strength, and if combinations of European

Powers are brought against us, secure a Euro-

pean, or still better an American ally, on our

side. Executive ministers, with the great

weight of a huge empire on them, no doubt

have all our little weak points sparkling in their

eyes ; and the strength of our opponents looms

large before them. They shrink from any

possible risk, and are inclined to clutch on to

the nearest person who can assist them, and

the nearest person is the one who is also

threatened. But our enemy, when viewed at

close quarters, is very far from being so strong

as he looks from London. He makes a brave

show to impress people, but he is perfectly well

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