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APPLICABLE IN THIS COUNTRY ALSO. Kver since the outbreak of the war a number of estimable citizens — most of them well past the age for sustained physical activity — have ban complaining with more or less vehemence that siMirting events were allowed to proceed almost unmolested while the empire was engaged in a struggle for life. To these stern patriots it must have been puzzling to learn that British troops behind the firing line played football in the intervals between fighting Germans. Now tle-ir favorite corn is again being trodden upon by the British government, which has actually come to the conclusion that horse racing, cricket and other pastimes, eliminated to a greater or less extent for the past two years, should be encouraged as a relief from the tension to which the nerves of the people are otherwise exposed. Sporting events in England will once more, as a consequence be in full swing during the coming summer, though the level of excellence will perhaps be lowered by the absence of young men busy elsewhere. The governments decision looks reasonable. There is really nothing incongruous in a nation mixing play with war. It is fairly arguable, and. in fact, it seems to be proven that a judicious mixture produces tiotter soldiers. This, of course, is not to say that sports are to take first place, as they have done too often in times of peace. But would not Canada do well to follow Great Britains example in restoring outdoor amusements fully to popular favor? Id the amateur be encouraged instead of being accused of doing something not quite seemly. And the spectators who like to watch a ball game or a horse race ought not to be severely criticized. — Winnipeg Telegram.
