But one cannot doubt that Imperial Federation has been brought very much nearer by this Conference, The primary conditions of federation laid down by Mr. Chamberlain meet with universal approval in this country. "His Majesty's Government," said "Mr. Chamberlain, "while they would welcome any approach which might be made to a more definite and closer union, feel that it is not for them to press it upon you. The demand, if it comes and when i comes, must come from the Colonies. If it comes it will be enthusiastically received in this country. If you are prepared at any time to take any proportionate share in the burdens of the Empire, we are prepared to meet you with any proposal for giving to you a corresponding voice in the policy of the Empire." That most of the Colonies are already in a measure prepared for this is shown by the fact that they have material-Ly increased their contributions to the navy; but Canada still refuses to give anything.
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.