1 84 WITH MR. CHAMBERLAIN IN THE 



applause), and even if the Legislature of the United 

 States in its wisdom should deem that to be un- 

 desirable, the fishermen can still have these privi- 

 leges for a limited period of two years under what is 

 known as the modus vivendi, on payment of a mode- 

 rate licence fee. I have seen it stated by people who 

 apparently are unacquainted with the circumstances 

 of the fishers, that this proposal would involve the 

 payment of $300 or $400 by each fisherman, and 

 would be absolutely ruinous to them. Well, the 

 average size of American fishing boats engaged in 

 this trade is less than 100 tons, therefore the annual 

 fee would be less than £30, or about $150. 



NOT A MONSTROUS PROPOSAL 



But when it is said that this is a monstrous pro- 

 posal, that this alone ought to ensure the rejection 

 of the Treaty — with which it is in no way con- 

 nected — I would venture to point out to you that it is 

 a proposal freely and voluntarily offered by Canada 

 as a great and additional concession, as a proof of 

 friendship and goodwill, which Canada will only be 

 too happy to withdraw if it is not accepted in the 

 same spirit. (Cheers.) There is nothing in this 

 proposal which is compulsory. If the fishermen 

 think that the advantages offered are not worth the 

 price which is demanded, and which we think to be 

 altogether insignificant, if they think so, they are not 

 bound to avail themselves of it ; and as far as they 

 are concerned the proposal may be a dead letter. 

 (Cheers.) 



