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APPENDIX II.

their influence with the Government of the day
permitted.
The great mass of the debt was remitted by Government,
 frequently before the parliamentary elections
took place. If it had been Imperial money the same
result would have occurred. The Dominion is abundantly
 able to pay for its own improvement, railways
and waterways included. Do not forget that Canada
has grown out of its swaddling clothes. The estimated
revenue of the Dominion for the year ended June 30,
1go2, was 51 millions, and the surplus for the year 5
millions. This estimate was exceeded. There is no
reason why the British taxpayer should be asked to
contribute to our financial aid by the Government.
This should be left to the good sense of private
capitalists. At present I do not see any better way to
preserve harmony than to leave each colony to solve
its own fiscal question.
(G:)—I am not prepared to pronounce myself
on this question, except that Great Britain might
help Canada in the establishment of a fast mail line of
steamers on the Atlantic between Great Britain and
the Dominion.
(C2.)—So far as I can judge there is no urgent
demand for Mr. Chamberlain's proposals, although
there possibly is a silent acquiescence in any scheme
that would be to the benefit of the agriculturist, still
I have my doubts if the great bulk of the rural population
 have given the question that consideration that
would enable them to give a reason for their
belief.
In my opinion the fulfilment of Mr. Chamberlain's
proposals are not necessary to Canada’s development,
nor would their refusal cause widespread dissatisfaction.

Judging from the past acts of others than exporters
of foodstuffs, they would expect preferential treatment
in British markets.
Canada should above all things control her own fiscal