In his judgment it was the duty of the House to see that every effort was put forth to bring the country successfully and honourably out of this war, and that South Africa issued from it, not as a divided, but as a united, people. Sir Thomas Smartt, leader of the Opposition, heartily congratulated General Botha on his speech, and assured the Government of the most cordial support of the Opposition. London, _Sept. 9th_. Reuter's Agency learns from an authoritative source that the line to be followed by the Union Government of South Africa, as outlined in General Botha's speech, has been well known in official circles for some time. From the outset there has been the closest touch between the Imperial and the Union Governments, both as regards the general attitude of the latter and the military requirements in view of the war with Germany. On the outbreak of war a brief but significant telegram was received from General Botha, containing merely the words, "We will do our duty." What this implies as regards the neighbouring German colony cannot, for obvious reasons, be stated in detail at this stage. It may be declared, however, that the news of the crossing of the Orange River by two German forces spread like wildfire through South Africa and caused a feeling of the greatest indignation, and, without any suggestion from the Imperial Government, steps were at once taken--and have since been completed--for effectually dealing with German South-West Africa. It was on the initiative of General Botha's Government that, on the outbreak of war with Germany, the Union Government telegraphed to London suggesting that the garrison of Imperial troops should be withdrawn, and offering the whole military resources of South Africa for the defence of the Union, including the native territories. It had by this time become apparent that this meant not only defence, but also offensive operations against the adjoining German colony of 326,000 square miles in extent, with its garrison and fortifications. What this involved was perfectly well known to the authorities, who were aware of the large quantities of cannon, arms, and ammunition that had been poured into the country in the vain hope that the Boers would join the Germans when trouble arose. The South African Government does not expect a "walk-over," but it is prepared for all eventualities. It has been a matter of the greatest gratification to the Union Government that, at this juncture, the Imperial Government offered to give South Africa all the financial assistance needed. In this connection it should be explained that all defence measures and warlike operations are being undertaken at the expense of the Union Government. The offer of the Imperial Government, which is of great value in view of the moratorium, is to lend what money may be necessary for the time being for war purposes.