The London Welshman

Notes of the Week. Peace at Last.-Our notes last week were in the press before the unexpected news came that the plenipotentiaries at Portsmouth had agreed upon terms of peace. It is no exaggeration to say that the news was startling, for everybody expected a different result to the Conference. The reports of the special correspondents on the spot were so pessimistic even the night before. But if unexpected the news sent a thrill of joy through all the civilized world. Though we are late doing it, we desire to join in the chorus of congratulations to both coun- tries. Russia has obtained much more favour- able terms than she might have expected, and also than she deserved Japan in the day of her triumph has showed such magnanimity and self- denial that has won her the esteem and the goodwill of every other nation under the sun. Of course she has gained enormously, gained everything she declared she went to war for, but we know of other nations who went to war to secure certain declared objects, but when they had won the day took a great deal more, yea, even things they had solemnly swore they would not' take. Some European nations, who call themselves Christians, ought to feel ashamed when they look at their own treatment of defeated nations in the light of Japan's treat- ment of Russia. Whilst great praise is due to the representatives of both Powers for their tact and patience, and perseverance until they came to an agreement, the man who deserves the thanks of humanity in this matter is President Roosevelt. He was the means of bringing both parties together, and in the times of crisis during the weeks of negotiations he used all his influence to bring about an agreement. It is confidently stated that he acted virtually as arbitrator on more than one occasion. He acted straight all through, both the Russians and the Japanese felt that he was a man whom they could trust, and that his sole motive in bringing them together was a sincere desire to prevent further bloodshed. And he has done it, to his lasting credit. The earth is once more the home of peace so far as the relationship of nation to nation is concerned, though the internal state of Russia as well as of some other king- doms is in a state of unrest and strife. The only class that may regret the peace are the Russian peasants. Had the war continued they would have obtained their freedom, now it is much more doubtful. But the hour of their release cannot be long delayed. Our New Treaty with Japan.—It is an- nounced that the new treaty between England and Japan has been signed, but its contents have not yet been authoritatively published. Still, there seems no reason to doubt the accuracy of the statements made as to its principal provisions. Of course, it is not to come into force until the quarrel between Japan and Russia is finally settled, and there may be some grounds for thinking that this fact has had some influence to induce Japan to hasten to make peace. The provisions of the new treaty differ very materially from the provisions of the old. Great Britain and Japan are two allies in every respect henceforth. Whenever either Power is attacked the other is to give assistance. It may not be aimed at Russia in particular, but it appears so. Should that Power attack India at any time, it would have to reckon with the united forces. There is not the slightest doubt but that the Liberals, should they come into office, will abide faithfully by this treaty. In foreign politics, or international politics rather, Party distinctions do not count. Our belief is, 1 that this treaty will prove a strong instrument of peace. No single Power will be rash enough fo quarrel with either Japan or Great Britain, knowing that it would have to face both. It may lead to a combination of some Powers against the two, but that is not very likely. We are now on very good terms with most European Powers, if not with all, and every year the bonds -of friendship are tightened. The Witham Disaster.—Rail way accidents cast gloom upon the whole community under whatever circumstances they happen, but there is grim horror in the idea that such a disaster as that which took place near Witham last Friday should overtake a trainfull of holiday-makers. To hear that a multitude of people going out in search of renewed life and vigour have been met by the angel of death in this terrible form must overwhelm even the most callous. It is almost enough to make us believe that there is a destiny that shapes our ends rough "-as one put it. Still, when we remember how vast the number of trains that run during the holiday season, and the speed at which most of them travel, the marvel is that there are so few accidents, and that more lives are not sacrificed. So far there is no explanation at all of the cause of the latest disaster. All that is known is that a coach in the middle of the train jumped the rails and drew other coaches after it. Whether there was something wrong with the points at that particular spot, or whether the speed was excessive, are questions that will, we hope, be thoroughly inquired into. But whatever the cause the effects are terrible enough. Ten persons were killed, forty-four more or less injured, and the station at Witham practically demolished. News that an accident had oc- curred reached London long before any particu- lars could be obtained, and the relatives and friends of those who had left for the east coast that morning suffered hours of agonising anxiety. Ought there not be a law prohibiting the publication of heartrending news of this kind until some particulars can also be given ?