the colonies all desire to maintain the connection; that is their.
present feeling beyond doubt. They are loyal beyond all question,
and whenever an occasion arises where they can show their
devotion to the interests of the country at large, they are always
ready to do it. The self-government which has been granted to
them has increased their attachment. We know, as a matter of
history, that when they were governed as Crown colonies, directed
from Downing Street, there were constant differences arising,
constant questions that tended to embitter their relations. But
since they have had self-government the colonies have been
marked by increased attachment to the institutions of the British
Empire. These institutions have stimulated their progressd and
their wealth. They are now absorbed in the development of their
rvast local resources. Railways and steamboats, telegraphs and
manufactures, and all the various varieties of human industry, are
now occupying the minds of the colonies almost to the exclusion
of everything else. All local ambitions slumber. The public men
of the country seek.their future now entirely in the development
of their resources.' That is what gives them the confidence of the
people, and it is that to which their attention is most constantly
directed. But 1 admit that a change in that respect is probably
not very far off. We see in the case of Canada that it is semi-
national now; its claims in that respect are largely recognised by
the Imperial Government. There is never any interference; the
bond of union is one of mutual attachment, and it is one
which 1 think we certainly ought to strengthen, and will try
to strengthen as much as possible; but at the same time I rather
doubt whether a mere bond of sentimental attachment is strong
enough. I think we want to have an alliance of material interests.
I think we want to have some subjects in which, we are true
partners, in which we will share the losses and share the gains.
There is one reason why a country like Canada should not desire
separation. What is the future it would give us? We would
become an insignificant independent country. At present ,we
belong to the greatest empire in the world. It is our pride- and
boast that we do so; but if we once separate we drift off, and