58 



THE MOST MARKED DEVELOPMENT OF THE ARTS 

 PROMOTED BY WAR. 



The altei'iiations of public opiuiou are aptly compared to the oscillatious 

 of a pendulum ; usually more or less in extremes, it seldom passes 

 through, aud never abides in, that jmte milieu loiown to mechanics as 

 the centre of motion. Therefore, as each subject is brought under 

 notice, it must be seen from many positions ere that is attained from 

 which only the correct view can be taken. Whatever be the subject, 

 a more or less extreme opinion is formed of its merits ; aud, according 

 to the bias of the observer, every fact, or apparent fact, is eagerly 

 enlisted in sujDport of the opinion he upholds. 



In aU states of society the majority will be dissatisfied with things as 

 they are, and desirous of change, in the hope of obtaining more success 

 iu the several pursuits. Many reconcile themselves to the want of 

 success, as far as that reconciliation may be effected, by assuming that 

 iu different circumstances they would have that scope which is now 

 denied them. In times of peace such persons are ready to welcome 

 war, as giving an entire change to the routine of operations ; in war 

 time they clamour for peace, from a similar motive. 



It was, therefore, extremely natural, during the lengthened continu- 

 ance of the late European war, that public opinion should incline to 

 peace; an inclination which was no doubt strengthened by the heavy 

 taxation and debt which now foiin part of its monumental record in 

 this country. At the commencement of that war, and for many years 

 of its progress, public opinion was decidedly in its favoui', aud prepared 

 to uphold it at any cost ; but the cost reached an almost fabulous 

 amount, and a reaction ensued. The centre of motion was approached, 

 aud it was passed ; though, happily, not before that war was houom'ably 

 concluded. Since the peace, the pacific oscillation has gradually 

 ascended higher and higher, until the utmost extreme of literal non- 

 intervention is almost attained. The experience of school-life is ignored, 

 and men who, when boys, withstood the tyrant of the play-ground, and 

 protected his feeble ^^ctim from oppression, have now outgrown such 

 weak geuerosity, and wish their country to look on, a dispassionate 

 witness of similar cowaixUy aggression. Meanwhile, the most extreme 

 statements, iu favour of what are called the peace doctrines, are 

 frequently hazarded, and ad captandum addresses upon the blessings of 

 peace published. 



Amongst tlie most favoured and frequently reiterated opinions, are 

 the intimate and mutually advantageous relations subsisting between 



