CO129-223 - Governor Sir Bowen Acting Governor Marsh & Others - 1885 [11-12] — Page 425

will provoke indignation doubtless among this class, but it is too true. They have learnt the art well from their masters, and know precisely what is wanted. There are noble exceptions, men like Parkes whom we have just lost, strong and capable men, never fearing to speak out the truth to the Government they serve, however unpalatable or inconvenient it might be. But they are sadly few, and such men are only tolerated in the public service when special abilities and qualifications make them indispensable.

There are many who think that the nearer we approach to democracy the less capable will be our management of national matters, especially that of foreign questions involving expenditure abroad. The democracy, they say, will not pay the insurance on prospective advantages. They will always prefer immediate and parochial reform. Will the statesmen who are to lead the coming democracy make it the business of their lives to guide them in the right path? Unless they do it Is to be feared that the country will pay more and more attention to domestic affairs, and will not make the necessary sacrifice for national defence. If so, there can be no doubt what the result will be. It is a case of organization and consolida- tion, or disintegration. There is no alternative.

In conclusion, I believe every Englishman who earnestly cares for his country will agree with Lord Overstone when he said "if we prove too apathetic to take the necessary precautions, or make the necessary sacrifice, we must bow to the fato which the whole world will declare wo have deserved." To that I for one say, Amen.

Office or Individual.

But office

Date.

1885

7 July

ast previous Paper.

Rov

11830

for, wit.. 11.9 July

Stong Kong

No.

11888

(Subject.)

Post Office Ord: 11/85.

424

DOMESTIC.

CO

11833

IRELY

REGO 7 JUL 85)

Thanks for copy of. There is no

objection to the confirmation of this & the othe

Orde

(Minutes.)

M. Braunsto

? Confirm both Ordinances

Had 8 July

in draft Submitted

at subsequent Paper.