The Spirit of War

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 12, 1908

The Spirit of War

THE feeling of the immanence of war and a necessity of preparation for it is felt in all parts of the earth. Most of the large nations are pushing their interests to the verge of rupture with powers standing in the path of their purpose. For instance, Japan would quickly take Manchuria if she were sure Germany and America would not cross her path. Both England and Russia covet Persia, and their spheres of influence have met near the center of that country. France is feeling her way gingerly in North Africa, remembering the Fashoda incident, and understanding the attitude of Germany. It is safe to say that England’s control of Egypt is not so complete as it would be if she knew she could tighten her grasp without a conflict. This situation naturally begets an uneasy state of feeling among the smaller nations and the colonies of the larger ones. That is why Canada desires a navy, and it is why Australia feels a similar need. Concerning this an English journal says:—

Even the colonies of England are beginning to prepare for war. Mr. Deakin, the prime minister of the Australian Commonwealth, has introduced a bill for universal compulsory military service. Only a short period in camp, sixteen days each year, is called for under the bill, but the time can easily be extended, once the principle is admitted. Mr. Deakin hopes, in the course of eight years, to have a national guard, trained to arms, of 218,000 men. He is also proposing the purchase of three submarines and two destroyers every year for three years as the nucleus of an Australian navy. Thus the war fever secures another victim.