QUALITY NOT QUANTITY

Why is it that the publication of the census figures arouses a feeling of pride where increases may be noted, but brings forth only apologies and explanations where there is a decline in the rate of increase? Is the mere size of the country all-important? "The results of the census population in 1920 at first glance may seem somewhat disappointing" because the grand total expected by the prophets in such matters did not materialize. The war, the influenza epidemic, suspension of immigration, explain the facts, and we are informed that the increase is all that could be expected.

What is the significant fact about these census figures? Economists assure us there is no danger in the concentration of people in urban districts; the varying rates with which some states are gaining or losing are relatively unimportant. But the fact that well over a quarter of the increase in population of this country in due to the excess of immigration over emigration--and that in spite of the war time restrictions--is very significant. Moreover we read that steerage passage has been sold out till February, that literally thousands are planning to come to this country immediately. Any right minded citizen knows that this means a tremendous task in assimilation, a great national effort.

There is room here for everybody of the right sort, and it is entirely up to the present citizens whether these for eigners are to be Americanized and satisfied or whether they will spread restlessness and discontent. It is not size that counts with our population--but kind; the more of the right kind, the better. The 1920 census show above all that the American citizen cannot ignore the foreigner; he must show generosity, fairness and intelligence in making these people really of the United States not in them.