New-York tribune., 1900-03-17
ENGLISHMEE IN THE UNITED STATES

An Englishman residing in Kansas discusses
in "The Kansas City Journal the question
frequently asked, why there is so much ap-
parent pro-Boer sympathy in this country, and
so few evidences of any sympathy for Great
Britain. The implication is that the English
cause is so bad that even Englishmen living in
this country do not venture to say word in
its favor. But according to this writer, such a
conclusion is erroneous. For, first of all, Eng
lishmen in this country are not professional pol
iticians. They did not come here to run for
office or to exploit any foreign cause, but to be
good citizens and adapt themselves TO American
ideas and institutions
In the next place, Englishmen do not ask
sympathy for England. because England does
not need it, The result of the war has never
been in doubt, and when Englshmen in the
United States hear predictions of England's
speedy fall they are merely amused. The thing
is so absurd that it isn't worth while getting mad
about it Thirdly, the American Englishman
is not heard from because he approves the
American Governments attitude Of strict neu-
traity. Il have said the Englishman Is a good
'citiZen. Because he is a good citizen he de-
"sires this policy to be maintained, and there
fore does not ask his Senator or Congressman
''to thwart the Administration. The CORE
''spondents who poster the members of Congress
with letters evidently desire this policy to be
reversed
Such the reasons given for the refusal Of
English subjects in this country to parade their
personal sympathies before the world. And to
most candid Americans they will seem to be
good and sufficient. The first duty of those who
live under the protection of the American flag
is TO think first Of the interests of the country
whose hospitality they enjoy. and in the per-
of tbafd drJty in
States set an example that other aliens might
wisely follow.
And, as this correspondent Of ''The Kansas
City Journal shows there are eminently prac-
teal reasons why the United States should not
go out Of its way to affront England I'VE are
told" he says. that England depends upon us
'for food. Englishmen know quite as we'll that
"the United States depends upon them for a
market. The loss Of that market for farm
products. in case OF war, means ruin to a vast
number of financial and commercial interests.
1T is difficult TO name any interest that would
mot be affected. II war is not desired by those
"agitators, what do they mean? What &c cd will
"an academic resolution do? rupture of
Friendship is also dangerous. The colonies Of
Great Britain are thrilled with patriotism.
England appreciates their services The hos
tile, or even unfriendly, conduct Of the Admin
'lStraton at thlS time VIII be almost sure TO
bring about what section OF the English
people at home and the larger colonies have
''long desired. viz, commercial union between
England and her colonies, and protection from
"the outside world. This is not remote dan
ger 1t is perllously near to us. 1t is danger
(which the English residents in this country
'will do all in their power 10 avert. Although
mot organized for political purposes. they are
united In a determination to maintain friendly
relations between the two branches of the
English speaking people. They are numerous
enough. too, to make their influence felt and
"any party or politician who forgets this Is
likely TO be reminded Of the fact
This is free country. and every one has the