The Henson Journals

[119]

Wednesday, July 14th, 1909.

Winnipeg:–

I am pledged to address the Canadian Club on "A cross–bench view of Imperial Defence". It is not easy to keep the bounds of prudence: &, when one has done one's best, there is always the head–line to be reckoned with. I wrote out a short speech, having learned by experience that the American reporter is quite unable to report anything. There were about 250 people present, both men & women, but mainly men. The lunch was the meagre–est in the world, & then came a few words from the chairman introducing me, & then I spoke for about 25 minutes. The audience listened closely, & applauded loudly at the end. Then we sang "God save the King" fervently: & so departed. In the company were the leading citizens of Winnipeg including the Archbishop, the Lord Chief Justice, the Attorney General, & Mr Whyte. The last sate next to me, & I found him again very interesting. He says that the influx of Americans is bringing the "graft" mischief into Canada.

Max Dennistoun took me to the Manitoba Club, & there I wrote a letter to Marion & read the papers, while he transacted some business. Then we had tea, & rejoined the ladies, in order to go out to the Country Club, where he entertained us to dinner very pleasantly. [120] The Fishery Commissioners whom we met in Washington – Professors Jordan & a Canadian professor – were in the Club, & claimed acquaintance. The former with his secretary called on me in the morning, & had a brief conversation.

It is evident that much money may be made in this country by money–lending to the farmers. Money may be borrowed at a cheap rate in the East or in Europe, and lent out at no less than 6 or even 8 per cent interest. Everybody is mortgaging in order to raise funds to lend out at this rate.

---