APPENDIX IL 157

2» somewhat vague conception of the nature of the
new doctrine. One would like to see a definite and
specific declaration from Mr. Chamberlain. But, as
far as I can understand, he wished the Old Land to
adopt a system of protective tariffs, giving under
these a preference to the British colonies. And he
hopes that in return the colonies will give Great
Britain a preference in their markets.
(C1.)—There isin Canada a very general wish that
Chamberlain’s proposals may be so arranged that a
preference may be given to all the products of the
farm, and I am sure this feeling is growing among
both political parties.
(D.)—Canadians in general, without distinction of
race or party, wish Great Britain to reciprocate the
Canadian preference of 33} per cent. to British
goods. They are pleased by Mr. Chamberlain’s proposals
 in so far as these are to give Canada a preference,
 just as Englishmen would probably be pleased
if a prominent element in France, Germany, Russia,
or the United States were proposing a tariff preference
 to British goods. Itis presumed that Englishmen,
 in view of such propaganda in either of those
countries, would applaud the conductors thereof,
They would show themselves ready to accept the
boon cheerfully if it were to be granted freely—as
Canada granted the preference to British goods. If
the propagandists were offering the apparent boon on
terms not specified it is presumed Englishmen would
say in effect: “We like your movement, 50 far as we
know it. But until we know the terms we can’t say
we will accept. We want the preference if we can
get it gratis, or ata profitable price, one not involving
us either in pecuniary loss, in injury to our national
status, or in danger of commercial or other war with
other people. In short, we like the idea of being
preferred—but we are not engaging to accept any
gold bricks until we ascertain precisely the quality of
the gold.”