New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1917-11-13
Sir Watrid Laurier, an Isolated Leader
By Sir John Willison
Formerly Editor of The Toronto Globe and The Toronto Mems

government. For these causes mauy OF the
Liberal newspapers had commended and to
these causes they must adhere.
Take the situation in Toronto. For nearly
seventy years "The Toronto Globe" has been
the most powerful organ of Liberalism in
Canada. Indeed, the founder of "The Globe"
was the founder of the Liberal party. No
newspaper in the Dominion was more devoted
alike to the personal and political fortunes of
Sir Wilfrid Laurer. "The Globe" however,
in the political contest which is now proceed
ing is vigorously opposing Sir Wilfrid and
supporting CONSUMPTION and a coalition gov
eminent under Conservative leader. More
over, it is taking its course with sincerity
and dignity, with prudence and moderation
but quite without shutting or trimming THE
Daily Star" the other Liberal journal a sue
cessful and enterprising publication, is also
giving its influential support to the union
government. Indeed, in Toronto, which has
six daily newspapers, not one supports Sir
Wilfrid Laurier or opposes the union govern
ment.
The Press Opposed to Laurier
In Winnipeg, where there are three daily
newspapers, all oppose Laurier and his pro-
gramme. For many years "The Free Press"
which ranks among the first two or three
newspapers in the country, has been the
faithful ally of the Liberal party. 1t was as
devoted to Sir Wilfrid Laurier as was "The
Toronto Globe" But ever since the war be-
gan "The Free Press" has made its energetic
prosecution the first consideration. II was
among the first voices TO call for coalition. It
was among the sturdiest advocates of the
draft. 1t may be that outside of the Prime
Minister himself no one was more influential
Al. NY Ami
Press" in bringing the Liberal and Conserva-
tive leaders together in a common Cabinet.
Naturally, therefore, "The Free Press" is an
uncompromising opponent of the Laurier war
programme and a resolute and aggressive
champion of the union government.
From Lake Superior to the Pacific there
are only two or three daily newspapers which
continue to support Sir Wilfrid Laurier, while
in very many Western constituencies not even
weekly journal adheres to his cause and
leadership. In the Atlantic provinces, where
party Royalties have been iercer and stronger
than in any other part of Canada, Sir Wilfrd
has better newspaper support than in the
West, but it is feeble as compared with that
which the union government commands.
Even in Quebec the government has powerful
newspaper allies. 1.-THE Montreal Daily Star"
has q greater circulation than any other
newspaper in the Dominion that is printed in
the English language.
In so far as the press is concerned there is
something almost pathetic in Sir Wilfrid
Laurior's isolation in the English provinces.
Only few months ago the Liberal news
papers which had been his firm and faithful
allies for a generation were as loyal, affec-
tionate and devoted as ever before. And the
Liberal press Is unquestionably the most
powerful section Of the press In Canada.
Now, through his rejection Of coalition and
denial Of conscription, the worshippers fall
away and he stands almost alone, but with a
repose and dignity which command admira-
ton and courage which never falters. As
happened when Gladstone introduced his frst
Home Rule bill in the imperial Parliament,
political clubs are divided, great journals are
shaken from their old alliances and a multi.
tude Of voters in the constituencies forsake
cherished leaders and dare to exercise an in
dependent franchise. That Is what should
happen in free country when great new
issues appear. and only where that can hap
pen have free institutions their full force and
effect But, bereft as he Is Of newspaper sup
port there arc elements and interests in the
Dominion which will insure Sir Wilfrid Lau-
rier substantial following in the next Par
lament.