Albuquerque morning journal. [volume] (Albuquerque, N.M.) 1903-1926, 1919-03-17

we are creating a benevolent autoc-
racy of some of us? Let us frankly
admit without camouflage that an
universal league is at this time, or in
any near future Impossible; but
meanwhile let us heartily and sim
cerely cooperate in making the best
possible league out of such material
as is available and conscientiously
strive to adapt it to the universal
needs of mankind
In my judgment some form of in
ternationalism is necessary for the
further progress of humanity. This
must be won step by step and pain
fully, like all progress. To attempt
whether through Bolshevism, social
ism or idealism win lead toward an
archy. To be lasting, this interna-
tionalism must be truly democratic
in form as well as in spirit, and must
be based upon and sustained by the
conscience of the individual man. A
| league based upon any other founda-
| ton such as self-determination' is
| founded upon sand.
Is any league possible? 1t has
been proven so in war, why not in
| peace? But demonstration comes be-
| fore universally. The whole world
must be convinced, and membership
sought for benefits clearly visible in
the practical workings of a league OF
free peoples actually existing.
The real test of the proposed
! league is not will 1t prevent all wars;
but will the association of the nations
in the form proposed make wars be-
tween them, or against them less ike
| " and at the same time have saiu-
tary effect upon the peace OF the
whole world? To this test an affirm
alive reply is inevitable. Is such a
result worth the effort and the cost
| firmly believe it to be So
Discussion and debate are of great
value. Details are unimportant in
comparison with the real intention OF
the constitution, but to know this,
complete understanding of what ac-
tually is agreed, is absolutely neces-
sary. All self-deception must be
avoided. We must know what we
are doing.
There should also in case of fail
ure be a way of peaceful withdraw
! al. Complete mutual confidence is
absolutely necessary for success.
withdrawal at the caprice or arbi-
trary decision of each Individual
member would seem TOY defeat the
very object of the league. Therefore
| should favor a definite period, say
ten or even twenty-five years for the
life of the present league without
| withdrawal, question of renewal to
be left for mutual determination al
that time.
| am not impressed by the vocifer-
atoms of the opponents of the league
| am equally disappointed, although
not greatly surprised at the methods
of Mr.. Wilson, who seems needless
w to challenge opposition and TO IN
tend ferment at home, however tact
full he may be abroad. or this last
one may be pardoned some suspicion
owing to the complete control OF
cables by his appointees, and the nat
ural inference that news reports are
still camouflaged. Nevertheless MS
position is better than that of his un
bridled opponents; because 1t is
fact the people will control and the,
favor a league We fought the wal
with Mr.. Wilson to considerable sue
cess and doubt not that we can ant
will in like manner fight out thu
peace. if that is the only way to do 1t
But | commend this suggestion t
all who are doubtful of the league
Why should we fight among our
selves about peace any more tlai
about war, or as much? Since n
seems to wish it, cannot we declo'
the matter among ourselves withou
becoming unduly excited withou
contact with him. Trust him to COM
across wherever we go. But do no
meanwhile become hysterical ana re