CHAPTER II.
SEPARATION.
I When we plead for separation from the British Empire as the only basis on which our country can have full development, and on which we can have final peace with England, we find in opponents a variety of attitudes, but one attitude invariably absent--a readiness to discuss the question fairly and refute it, if this can be done.

One man will take it superficially and heatedly, assuming it to be, according to his party, a censure on Mr.Redmond or Mr.O'Brien.

Another will take it superficially, but, as he thinks, philosophically, and will dismiss it with a smile.

With the followers of Mr.Redmond or Mr.O'Brien we can hardly argue at present, but we should not lose heart on their account, for these men move _en masse_.

One day the consciousness of the country will be electrified with a great deed or a great sacrifice and the multitude will break from lethargy or prejudice and march with a shout for freedom in a true, a brave, and a beautiful sense.