The Struggle for Imperial Unity: Recollections & ExperiencesDenison, George T. (George Taylor)
History
The Struggle for Imperial Unity: Recollections & Experiences
Denison, George T. (George Taylor)
Canada -- History -- 1867-1914
Lieut.-Colonel Denison followed. In his opening remarks he expressed
the belief that there was no difference of opinion among British
peoples, except those in South Africa, in regard to the question. The
opinion had prevailed to a certain extent that the question was simply
one as to the rights of the Uitlanders in the Transvaal. He was bound
to admit that up to a certain period that had been his impression, and
that being the case he had not been convinced that the matter was one
which necessitated the Empire's going to war. Some time ago, however,
he had been in the position of learning a good deal about the inside
working of affairs in South Africa from one who was thoroughly posted
in all the details. He had then discovered that it had got altogether
beyond any question of interest or rights of the Uitlanders, and
that for the last few years there had been a widespread conspiracy
among the Dutch-speaking settlers over the whole of South Africa for
the purpose of ousting the British. Ample proof was constantly being
furnished as to the continuity of this conspiracy. Sir Alfred Milner's
despatch of 14th May stated in the plainest possible language that
such was the case, and it was a question whether Britain was to hold
the balance of power in that part of the world or be driven out of
it altogether. The conspiracy extended further back than the Jameson
raid, and was one of the hidden causes leading to that affair. It was
because of it that the English people and Government had become so
angry over the famous telegram sent by the German Emperor to President
Kruger.
Continuing, Colonel Denison said it could not be gainsaid that
the question was one of vital importance to the whole empire,
and Canadians were as much interested as any of Her Majesty's
subjects. The Dominion had not fully and properly appreciated
her responsibilities as part of a great empire. If Canada was an
independent nation of six millions of people it would have to
support a standing army of 40,000 men, besides reserves of 200,000
or 300,000. "Is it right," he asked, "that we should all the time
be dependent upon the home Government and the British fleet for
protection? Is it fair that we should not give any proper assistance?
What kind of treatment would we have received from Washington in the
Behring's Sea business or in reference to this Alaskan question if we
had not had behind us the power of the Empire?"
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