THE FIRST STEP

At this time when many are rejoicing over the successful conclusion of the Armament Conference, it may be interesting to note the reasons which justify such jubilation. The success of the Conference cannot be questioned; true, it has not refashioned the entire world; true, all taxes are not to be lifted immediately; there is much in world-reorganization yet to be accomplished.

But it is also true that the Washington assembly has built a firm basis for future constructive conferences. One has only to recall the acclaim awarded Secretary Hughes's opening speech and then consider the fulfilment of the proposals outlined therein, to fully realize the monumental achievement of the delegates. The reduction of naval tonnage to 500,000 tons each for England and America, and 300,000 for Japan, and the ten-year naval holiday, are accomplished. This is perhaps the most important treaty; in addition, that limiting the use of submarines as commerce destroyers, the Four-power Pacific Treaty, the General Far Eastern agreement, the Chinese Tariff Pact, and the Shantung Treaty, all go far towards eliminating causes of friction and future war. Fourteen resolutions, ten declarations of national policy, and two treaties yet to be ratified complete the list of accomplishments.

Unquestionably the Conference has accomplished more than was expected; yet war has not been made impossible, and until that has been done those who are supposedly working in an unselfish manner for the general welfare of the world should not rest. The spirit which has made possible the wiping out of many old antipathies must be continued; unless the treaties are carried out to the letter the scoffers will be justified in their criticism. Future good faith, and future agreements, not merely for the limitation of armaments but for the elimination of armaments, will make the Washington Conference the beginning of a new epoch.