How Shall We Support Wilson?

To the Editors of the CRIMSON:--

I am inclined to think that Mr. Bushnell and myself are more nearly in agreement than he appreciates. We are at one in desiring some form of world organization which will replace the old, cut worn balance-of-power system, and will hold at least a promise of protection against aggression and of the settlement of international disputes by other means than brute force. I believe that he too is in full agreement with the ideals set forth in President Wilson's speech. Our disagreement is merely as to how we shall support him.

The reasons stated for choosing universal military service as the tool best fitted to this work are, first, to be able to force some such organization upon Europe by our military prestige, and, secondly, to he able to fulfil our duties as policeman.

I believe that any attempt to force an agreement on Europe will defeat its own ends. Mr. Bushnell speaks of the resentment felt in Europe over our past interference. How much more deep-rooted and bitter would this become if we can reasonably be accused of trying to force a selfish, American peace! This accusation has already appeared in foreign comment on the President's speech, and we must be careful how we give it ground to stand upon.

A policeman needs arms; but how much? Do our policemen go about, armed to the teeth, wearing steel helmets and bullet-proof waistcoats? They are sufficiently armed as they are because they are superior to the rest of us whom they control. All armament is purely relative, and we have no way of knowing yet how high the standard of armament will be set in the future. Each European country exhausted by the war, will be glad enough to reduce the scale,--providing only it can be sure al others will agree to do so. Organization against aggression will tremendously reduce the amount of armament required by each nation for protection; and every nation tells the world that it is arming for defense only.

Once a league is formed; once the world may be assured of our intentions in arming,--then America must do her share. If it is required of us, let us have an army of a million men and universal training. Then no danger of suspicion attaches to so radical a change in policy; but until then it is a stumbling-block in the road of the world's progress. HALLOWELL DAVIS '18.