222 SECTIONAL ADDRESSES 
Looking back on the past history of British agriculture, I am confident 
of one thing—whether that time be far distant or near at hand, the in- 
dustry will resume its prosperity—its importance it has never lost—and 
unborn generations will regard the present epoch as affording one of those 
many trials through which, during countless generations, it has emerged 
unscathed but remodelled, this time not despite a policy of laissez faire, 
but as a result of considered action and preferential treatment of an ail- 
embracing character. 
