No greater effort is required from Canada than from the other nations
whose freedom and independence are assailed. If we falter we betray
those who have “borne the battle” for us. We cast the splendor of their
sufferings and sacrifices in shadow forever. They loved peace as much
as we do. Life was as dear to them as it is to us. They cherished the
ties of home and family just as we do. They had affections as intimate
and obligations as sacred as any that we feel or know. If they are
deserted shame will be our portion in history. It will be said that the
honor they won for us among the nations we meanly cast away and that
we were unworthy of their chivalry, courage and sacrifice. We cannot
escape comparison with Britain and Australia and New Zealand. If we
deny obligation to the Empire or responsibility for the war we are
still subject to judgment. At least we have a political connection with
the Old World which the United States has not, and, therefore, cannot
withdraw from a conflict into which our neighbors have entered through
high concern for the decencies of civilization and the elementary
rights of mankind. To-day we command the world’s respect and keep our
own. To lose either would be to barter decency, dignity and glory for
ease, discredit and humiliation.