I think it is plain that for the purpose of facing these new and
infamous modern facts, we cannot, with any safety, depend on any of the
old nineteenth century names; Socialist, or Communist, or Radical, or
Liberal, or Labour. They are all honourable names; they all stand, or
stood, for things in which we may still believe; we can still apply them
to other problems; but not to this one. We have no longer a monopoly
of these names. Let it be understood that I am not speaking here of the
philosophical problem of their meaning, but of the practical problem of
their use. When I called myself a Radical I knew Mr. Balfour would not
call himself a Radical; therefore there was some use in the word. When
I called myself a Socialist I knew Lord Penrhyn would not call himself
a Socialist; therefore there was some use in the word. But the
capitalists, in that aggressive march which is the main fact of our
time, have captured our standards, both in the military and philosophic
sense of the word. And it is useless for us to march under colours which
they can carry as well as we.
Do you believe in Democracy? The devils also believe and tremble. Do you
believe in Trades Unionism? The Labour Members also believe; and tremble
like a falling teetotum. Do you believe in the State? The Samuels also
believe, and grin. Do you believe in the centralisation of Empire? So
did Beit. Do you believe in the decentralisation of Empire? So does
Albu. Do you believe in the brotherhood of men: and do you, dear
brethren, believe that Brother Arthur Henderson does not? Do you cry,
“The world for the workers!” and do you imagine Philip Snowden would
not? What we need is a name that shall declare, not that the modern
treason and tyranny are bad, but that they are quite literally,
intolerable: and that we mean to act accordingly. I really think “the
Limits” would be as good a name as any. But, anyhow, something is born
among us that is as strong as an infant Hercules: and it is part of
my prejudices to want it christened. I advertise for godfathers and
godmothers.