Page:Democracy, theoretical and practical (IA democracytheoret00hendrich).pdf/17

, the production of lead would probably not total more than 10,000 tons a year. If the 20 experts then returned and took charge with exactly the same plant, and exactly the same labour force, their production would be what it is at present—about 150,000 tons a year."

This will be hard reading for the rank and file of labour in Australia to-day; but it will not surprise the historian who remembers the condition into which England sank under the administration of the Duke of Newcastle, and how she rose again after a few years from a third-rate to a first-rate power under the inspiring and able leadership of William Pitt. The same constitution, the same people, but a thorough change in management.

It matters not what form of government you take, success will depend very largely upon efficient management. "Constitute government how you please," says Burke, "infinitely the greater part of it must depend upon the exercise of the powers which are left at large to the prudence and uprightness of ministers of state. Even all the use and potency of laws depends upon them. Without them your commonwealth is no better than a scheme upon paper, not a living, active, effective constitution."

Happy the country that can always find great leaders in the hour of stress and storm! Woe to the country that affords little scope for the development of men with initiative, insight, judgment, and creative ability!

And unless the fallacy underlying this shibboleth, government for the people by the people, is exposed, there is some danger that representatives will be reduced