1939 - Convention Report

              54 A L B E R T A WOMEN'S INSTITUTES
Sad to say, all these so very important subjects have become subversive to
the predominating* laws of war. We must bow to the necessity of the present
and by our acceptance of the new orders and regulations endeavour to do our
part in the maintenance of Law and Order, until such time as we may return
to our regular course of life with the blessings of Peace upon us.
In considering the subject of International Relations one feels absolutely
bewildered and entirely incompetent before the appalling conditions that exist
in the supposedly civilized countries of the present day.
Well may we ask, what is the world coming to?
Mr. Chamberlain has reiterated again and again, " War is the worst thing
that can happen to us!" Yet in spite of his utmost endeavours we are at war,
and, we sincerely believe, in a just cause.
But even in the midst of war, let us set ourselves to work for the restoration
of Peace, that it may be a victorious and lasting peace when it does come.
And at least we may rejoice that however nations may be rent by the horrors
of war, within the British Empire there is accord, with but one thought and
universal loyalty in the stand of the Dominions behind the Mother Country.
But let us turn to happier thoughts. The memory of the Royal Visit still
lingers with us in spite of the lowering clouds of war. Many of us had the
great pleasure this summer of seeing with our own eyes, our King and Queen.
If we did not actually see them no doubt we heard the story of their tour
described in minutest detail over the radio, and had the pleasure of hearing
their voices in the cheery messages they brought us.
It is safe to say that there was not a heart in the whole of Canada, nor in
the United States for that matter, but was won by their gracious charm and
presence. It was a triumphal tour from beginning to end, with tears of sorrow
at their departure, and prayers for their continued safety. London, the heart
of the Empire, rejoiced at their Majesties' safe return and the happy reunion
of their family, and as the occasion was broadcasted, the whole of the Empire
to its farthest- flung outposts, rejoiced also. It was the strongest bond of
International Relationship within our Empire that could be cast— the strength
of which is even now being proven.
Again we turn with sorrow to view the ill- fate of the League of Nations
which was fathered, perhaps before the world was ready for it, by the noblest
intentions of those countries that were a part of it.
It is indeed true, the League of Nations has not been able to stop or avert
wars, but it has nevertheless served many useful purposes in lessening distress
and evils. It has accomplished wonders as we may realize by reviewing a few
of its works.
The League of Nations has:
1. Directed an effective crusade against traffic in narcotics.
2. Supplied and maintained an alert Intelligence Service for the prevention
of epidemics.
3. Has combatted slavery and protected children.
4. Has concerned itself with the interests of minorities and refugees.
5. Has looked after the relief of those unhappy victims of changed European
frontiers and political revolutions.
6. The Health Department of the League of Nations has for a number of
years fought against cholera, typhus and other deadly diseases.