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Introduction.

In the period of reconstruction which must inevitably(1) Importance of subject. follow the war, perhaps no other problem will occasion equal concern on the part of such a large body of people, or will rank equally in importance to its relationship to problems of the time, as this. At the present time, with that period ever in view, various organizations are doing work along constructive lines to fit the soldier for his return to civilian life and, to some extent, to ease the friction which will attend his absorption into peaceful industries. The press, the church, the public platform, and the government are using time and energy in endeavors to estimate the requirements of the situation, and to discover what will prove of value in the solution of a difficult task. That success may attend these efforts, and that the adjustment necessitated by the cessation of war, may be carried out with the least possible waste of human energy, and with the least possible friction, is the hope of every nation involved in the struggle and concerned with the best interest of humanity.

The task of presenting suggestions of value is of(2) Methods—(a) Analytical necessity bristling with difficulties. To secure results aspiring to value attention must be paid to the methods adopted. Arguments by analogy have limitations. Various nations at different times have dealt with the problems attending the aftermath of war more or less successfully. From their experience valuable lessons may be learned but these must be applied to our own problems with reservations. In many ways our problems after the war will be distinctly Canadian. The presence of large bodies of returned soldiers in England during the years following the Napoleonic wars seriously aggravated many problems of English national life. The experience gained from this period is of value but its application is limited since Canadian problems are attended by altogether different conditions. The success or failure(2) Methods—(b) Historical evidenced in the solution of problems following the civil war of the United States is worthy of careful study but conditions at that time varied materially from those of the present. The result of our own experience with the returned men from the South African war offers many suggestions but even these must be adopted with reserve since the present task is of greater magnitude and again time has altered conditions. It is true that history repeats itself but it is equally true that history never repeats itself. The same universal laws are in operation but with relation to different phenomena.

The method promising more stable results is that of induction.(2) Methods—(c) Inductive The careful survey of the elements entering into the various problems is an essential step. This must be followed by an analysis of the complex relations characteristic of all social phenomena. Studied investigation, and an application of the lessons gleaned from the experience of other countries in other times, must precede all attempts in the solution of these difficulties. This is better than a haphazard method promising trouble on all hands.

Body.

A broad survey of the elements which will enter into(1) Survey (a) Material resources the solution of after-war problems is a necessity. The material elements are briefly the illimitable resources so far as Canada herself is concerned. In acres of arable land she is surpassed by no other country: her minerals are as yet undeveloped and practically inexhaustible: her fisheries are of unparalleled value and her timber of almost unlimited extent. The one other element aside from material resources entering into the successful development and progress of a nation, is its people, their character and number. It is the(1) (b) People relation of the returned soldier to the people and to the progress of the nation that forms the burden of this essay. The success which attends the solution of post-war problems, and after these are settled, the progress of the nation, depend upon the thrift of the people. Gambetta in his advice to the French people after the Franco-German War of 1871 uttered words applicable to(1) (c) Work any nation suffering from the ravages of war. “Le travail toujours le travail, et encore le travail”. Work, work of brain and of brawn, co-operation, organization, and determination to heal the sores occasioned by war, and to start again along the lines of sound national progress, is the hope of the Canadian people. As to her wealth—there(1) (d) Organization is no question. It is her task to develop and conserve that wealth, to utilize her energies without mismanagement—the parent of prodigious waste—that she may take her place among the nations of the world for the privilege of which her best blood has been shed.

The standard by which her success in dealing with theStandard-health of people. problems of the returned soldier, or indeed with any problem, will be measured, is, broadly considered, the health of the people. Gladstone has truly said “The health of the people is the nation’s greatest asset”. So too Marshall has stated the same principle “The growth of mankind in numbers, in health, and strength, in knowledge, in ability and in richness of character is the end of all our studies”. With that principle in view, as a test of the value of any proposal, progress is ensured. The problems, enhanced, modified or occasioned by the returned soldier will, in their solution, rightly consider this as the vital touchstone of their success.

Obviously the returned soldier and his problems areWidows and Orphans. not the only questions pressing for solution from the effects of the war. The individual, who will not return from France has left dependents to whom the country is deeply indebted. The man who has left his wife and children for the sake of his country must rest assured that the state will leave nothing undone for their welfare. The returned soldier, whatever his principles may be, will demand that this debt be paid first. The spirit of chivalry which has inspired his gallantry to carry out revenge on the destroyers of the women of Belgium and the baby killers of England, that same spirit of chivalry will demand that the women and children of his fallen comrades shall be provided for, and that with generous hands. The state must never be guilty of mean cheese paring toward those who have suffered for its sake. The statement of the Prime Minister in the House of Commons affords some conception of the magnitude of this indemnity. For the infantry alone, during the twelve months ending last May, the number killed in action was 12,071, died of wounds, 2,872, died of sickness, 421, and missing of which the majority are in all probability killed, 1,937, making a total, not including the missing, of 15,364. For the two months preceding May the total killed was 7,503. This is for a period of twelve months but it gives some idea of the casualties for the whole period of the war, and the end is not yet. The majority of these men have left dependents in varying stages of dependency, though it is true the army is largely composed of single men. The question is not however the number of dependents but the adequate care of those who are dependent.

Controversy has always been prevalent in connectionPensions. with the advantages and disadvantages of charity or philanthropy. Discretion is necessary as it is certainly undesirable to encourage waste and idleness by undue generosity. There is slight occasion however to warn the government in this respect as generosity to those deserving is not one of its prominent characteristics, though certainly there is a tendency to exaggerate all mistakes on its part. The new pension scheme, remodelled along the lines of practical experience, has many commendable features, though it is by no means perfect. Under the new arrangements, a widow or dependent parent is entitled to forty dollars per month, while an orphan child is entitled to sixteen dollars per month until the age of sixteen years in the case of a boy, or seventeen years in the case of a girl.

In the pension granted a widow or dependent parent,Criticism. criticism may be made, that a uniform sum of forty dollars per month is not a satisfactory solution of the difficulty. In some cases, though this is doubtful, it may be too much as in the case of a widow earning her own living and enjoying life, or it may be insufficient to support a helpless dependent. These are two extremes which undoubtedly exist but for which no provision is made. Each case of dependency has its own peculiarities and to avoid injustice it ought to be dealt with separately by a board of competent broad-minded men or women. The retort that this is an undue interference on the part of the government in private matters is justly answered by the fact that it is in the state’s best interest to support adequately its dependents. In the majority of cases, the pension may be sufficient, but it does not recognize the few cases in which it is not sufficient.

That the pension system will necessarily change as experienceOrphans. is gained, or as the cost of living increases or decreases, is a foregone conclusion. A pension of sixteen dollars to an orphan who has been deprived of a home because the father had lost his life in the defense of the state, scarcely has the appearance of justice. For the government to consider its duty done on the payment of the money, or for the government to shoulder on a private organization the responsibility of providing the child with the advantages of a generous education, is an act of brutal carelessness and of flagrant disregard for duty. It is in the best interests of the state to secure for its future citizens the best training it can afford. There is no better investment. If it is necessary for the government to erect its own schools for these children, there should be no quibbling as to the expense. Otherwise a pension of sixteen dollars bespeaks for the child a certain amount of abuse and certainly an unfair amount of labour at an early age. The government cannot afford to prejudice the lives of its orphans, or its own welfare by such uncharitable treatment. It is superfluous to state the rights of those dependent on men who have given their lives for their country, but it is necessary to insist that those deserving secure their rights. Much has been written on the advisability of adopting these children of the state in various respectable homes. This ensures for the child the many benefits of home life of which it would otherwise be deprived. The child, on attaining a certain age at which it could earn its livelihood, ought not to be taken from its foster parents by some relative who hopes for support from the child’s wages. It is in the interest of the state to protect the child from such malicious influences as may present themselves in this way. Government inspection in which the inspectors are broad-minded competent men is necessary to secure fair treatment for the child and for those who are willing to become its foster parents. Many other methods of dealing with these orphans may be suggested but each must aim to secure for the child a decent upbringing and a fair education. This is required of the state whether sixteen dollars per month is adequate or not.

The provision for those who have sustained permanentDisabled Soldiers. injury is almost as important as the provision for those who are dependent on men who have fallen in battle. The initial number of the Veteran the official organ of the Great War Veterans Association, in an article on demobilization has made the following significant statement. “There should undoubtedly be a permanent and regular compensation paid by the government representing the people of Canada, to those who have suffered detriment through the performance of public service. For disabled soldiers themselves we are bound to provide the best available surgical treatment. If they have lost a limb they must be equipped with the most effective substitute and trained to use it to the best advantage. If they are shell-shocked and have their nerves affected they must be accorded first-class psychic treatment to restore their mental balance. Then when medical skill and surgery have put them on a passable mental and physical level with others who have not suffered their experiences they must have access to a good course of re-education which will enable them to resume their old trade or profession or enter any new one which they may select.” There is no disputing this presentation of the question.

The task of providing these men with adequate means ofImportance of Provision. earning a livelihood is of no small magnitude when considered statistically. Again the Prime Minister’s statement in the House of Commons is illuminating. For the twelve months ending last May the number of wounded was 45,996, and for the two months preceding May the number was 13,861. Of course these were not seriously or permanently disabled. A great number on recovery will find their way back, through the hospitals, the convalescent hospitals, command depots, reserves, and base, to the front. Others more seriously disabled will be retained in England while still others will be sent to Canada, the happy hunting ground of all Canadian soldiers. There remains this fact however that no one who has been wounded, or no one for that matter who has seen a great deal of front line service, is physically or mentally better for the experience. Photographs to the contrary are of no avail. However it is the men who have been permanently disabled and come under the pension system who are to be considered.

Again the pension system has many desirable featuresPension System. and again it has decided imperfections in its treatment particularly with regard to the various ranks. A member of the rank and file is entitled for total disability, to fifty dollars per month, while a brigadier-general similarly incapacitated is awarded two-hundred and twenty-five dollars per month, while a major, between the two extremes received one hundred and five dollars per month. The discrepancy is obvious. It provides amply for those who usually have money and position while for those who have little other means of support it is in many ways inadequate. The unfairness is evident. The whole scheme is largely a replica of the old militaristic distinctions which are so odious to the Canadian people. The rank and file take more risks and receive less money while the officers of higher rank with few risks are more than generously rewarded. If such a large pension is necessary for the higher ranks certainly a larger pension is in order for those in the rank and file. The children of these respective ranks are treated similarly though the discrepancy is not so evident. The child of a rear-rank private is allowed eight dollars per month while the child of the brigadier-general, doubtless far less in need, is allowed ten dollars per month. Further discrimination against the ordinary private, or rather a rule favouring officers, is that evidenced in the case of officers who have reverted to the ranks in order to proceed to France. Briefly it is stated thus—if an officer who has reverted to the ranks on arrival in England in order to proceed to France is killed or dies, his dependents will receive a pension in accordance with the rank which he held on arrival in England. Many men have enlisted intending to take out commissions after they had acquired experience with actual front line conditions—recently this has become a military law. These men hesitated to command the lives of their followers without experience and yet in case of death no such provision is made. On the other hand the man who has, by fair means or foul, succeeded in obtaining a commission in Canada and has suffered none of the inconveniences of the men and who recognizes his mistake on arrival in England, is rewarded by a pension or rather his dependents receive a pension, in case of his death, equal to that given to officers. Here are two classes of men probably of equal ability, with the exception that one class is more conscientious than the other, but the less scrupulous one receiving the higher scale of pension. On the whole the pension regulations are generous but they are by no means perfect.

The argument may be advanced that seven millionOne Criticism. dollars per year in pensions will prove a great financial burden and hindrance to Canada’s development. This argument has only to be stated to be considered of no value. These men have suffered in the defence of the state and with Canada’s resources they are entitled to the best treatment possible as a reward.

The present machinery for the disposal and treatmentOrganizations. of returned soldiers is in many respects capable of improvement. There are various institutions in existence all doing very good work, the three more important being the Pension’s Board Commission, The Military Hospital’s Commission, and The Soldier’s Aid Commission. It is inevitable that there should be some overlapping of departments and consequently some injustice. A connecting link is necessary which can best be supplied by the government. A Department of Demobilization, possessed of very wide powers and complete jurisdiction to veto the acts of subordinate departments, and make personal decisions in any difficult case in dispute, would help materially. It should have full supervision of all matters in connection with returned discharged soldiers, or with the dependents of deceased soldiers. At its head should be a man of good administrative experience, with a wide knowledge of economic problems, and entirely independent of all party or partisan influences. The staff of course should preferably be made up of capable returned men as well as men with special knowledge of these problems. Branch offices should be established in the different Provinces and a certain devolution of responsibility given them. This department would provide a sound base of operations for the practical and effective approach to the gigantic problem of demobilization and assuredly now is the time to give it consideration. If sound judgement is used in the solution of this problem much trouble will be saved in the period following the cessation of war.

In conclusion the returned disabled soldier is entitledConclusion. to the best treatment which can be provided; he is entitled to a re-education, in a new occupation or in his old one, which will not necessitate dependence on the government for charities; he is entitled to work which will enable him to support himself and to a pension ensuring him against times of distress. He has earned fair treatment and the state can do no less than repay his claims.

The treatment of the disabled soldier in refittingDemobilization. him for new tasks is a small part of the work of the Canadian people in the great task of demobilization. The end of the war will immediately present a task of finding employment for able-bodied soldiers and for those employed in the manufacture of munitions. This unemployment problem which is more or less inevitable, excepting so far as previous organization will be sufficient to meet the demand, is, in its solution, the task of the whole Canadian people. No phase of Canadian life can escape its contribution to the solving of this problem.

At this Juncture it may be expedient to devote someA theory. time to a theory which has been set forth by many eminent writers during the past two or three years. It has been generally laid down that the man who has suffered for his country is entitled to employment on his return. Previous to the war it was not generally accepted that a man was entitled to work but lately the proposition has gained credence. If this theory is accepted and in many ways it admits no denial the task is by no means diminished.

Hand in hand with the right to work is the answerWho: has the right to work? to the question “who is the more entitled to work or indeed to any favors”. The soldier who came over with the first contingent, who has been up the line every time with his battalion, if there is such a man, the soldier who measures the length of his service in years, the soldier who has gone over the top time after time, would never consider the soldier who came out in the last draft, the soldier who has been conscripted, the soldier with the cushy job in the A.S.C. behind the line, entitled to the same treatment. Any scale of pensions which pretends to treat men who have served their country well with an approximation of fairness must take into consideration the length of service of the soldier as well as the relative dangers to which they have been subjected. Infantrymen entertain serious doubts as to whether a man serving in the Dental Corps in England with extra pay should be awarded with any favors. He has in their opinion merely been paid for his holidays and a trip to England. The member of the Dental Corps will think otherwise. It may be laid down as a principle that those who have seen the hardest service are entitled to favors if any are given. Before however, entering into the details of the solution of the problem of demobilization, an examination of some of the characteristics of the average soldier, as occasioned by life in the army, and their approximate results on the social, moral, and economical atmosphere of Canadian life will be in order.

Whether we will it or not, Army life has left anEffect of Army Life. indelible impress on the lives of all those who have come in contact with it. The discipline, which considers every individual as a mere unit of a great organization, has had its effects good and evil. At all times, under every condition of weather, under every inconvenience, whether it be due to hostile activity or to red tape, the fact is always forced upon the soldier that he must obey orders. The result is more or less an indifference to what happens, on the part of the average rear-rank private. His only worries are his rations or his mail. This cramping of individuality and the enforced idleness which usually accompanies it, have eradicated many of the characteristics which marked the ordinary civilian. It has introduced and created a lassitude, an indifference to surroundings which is not in his best interests. The man who has been over the top taking chances with life and death has become carelessly indifferent to the mere happenings of every day life. The man who has endured the hardships of active service where danger is not so prevalent has drifted into much the same lackadaisical attitude towards life.

This attitude which has been caused by variousCharacteristics. influences is responsible for the desire of nearly every average returned soldier to have at least a good time on his return. The honorable Joseph Howe’s meaning, in speaking of the two evils of New Brunswick as rum and politics, the greater evil being politics, will be applicable to some extent to the returned soldier. This is perhaps a digression as a great majority are intent upon work after the war and the few who adopt the “country-owes-me-a-living” attitude are not recognised as typical soldiers. Many regard the war as a waste of time and look forward to the time when they will be able to continue the work which they had left. Perhaps many are expecting a rest after the war but the majority anticipate work in which a change is as good as a rest.

Again the army is far from lonesome. There are fewSocialisation. moments in the army when one is alone. The habit of sociability is a strong feature of army life. This fact is of more importance than at first seems possible. It is to a great extent responsible for the failure of the Government to settle soldiers on homesteads after the South African war. In the army, one eats with men, works with men, sleeps with men, in fact is never alone. The importance of this feature has some influence on the choice of occupations for these men after the war. Factory work is more amenable to this temperament than isolation on a homestead. This is an element which must not be forgotten in later studies.

These strong tendencies caused by life in the armyEffects. have affected the whole body of Canadian soldiers. Aside from the evils which have marked all army life, and which flourish with the removal of the restraint of home life, these are characteristics which must be considered. Psychology has laid down the law that successful treatment of the habit necessitates breaking it sharply. This is ground for the assertion that on the cessation of war military rule or semi-military rule must be dispensed with wholly and efforts made to start the returned soldier anew along the lines characteristic of civilian life. The best military experts were called into consultation to convert civilians into soldiers, and the best experts of civilian life must be called into consultation in turning the soldier into the civilian. Difficulties will be evident but general principles can safely be approximated.

The various evils which beset the average soldier arePsychological and Moral. enhanced by the conditions prevalent in the army. A long period in the trenches varying from six to twenty-six days without relief is usually followed by a reaction from which only the strongest survive. A heavy bombardment of an hour’s duration immeasurably increases the consumption of cigarettes. Long hours standing in a heavy downpour of rain make estaminets where wine and intoxicants abound seem like glimpses of paradise. The odiousness of army life when some overbearing officers make life almost unbearable by uncalled-for abuse tends to sour men toward life in general. A long period of from ten to eighteen months without leave inevitably creates a reaction in which the women and public houses of London in particular, profit immensely. These various evils undoubtedly have a great influence on the life of the average soldier; certainly they do not strengthen the moral character of the men. The relaxation which follows long periods of strain is unfortunately disastrous to their physical health and they are not as capable of resisting temptation as formerly. Many of these evils are encouraged by the conditions prevailing in England and France, the sale of liquor, and in many respects the lower moral tone of the country. These might safely be called the psychological and moral defects of prevailing conditions.

These however are inseparably connected with the physicalPhysical. injuries of the life in general. This is all the more lamentable when it is realized that many men succumb to wounds which would not have proved fatal had it not been for the inroads upon the constitution occasioned by the presence of these evils. There are effects however which are more direct. A period of tension, the presence or appearance of strain in the eyes characteristic of men who have seen long service in the line, long marches, inclement weather, all have their effects upon health. Indulgence and wrong means of relaxation does irreparable injury sometimes resulting in cases of venereal disease which persists until the third and fourth generation. No man as a rule is physically better through life in the army. The loss in health may not be felt until later in life for youth has marvellous recuperative powers, but it will be felt and the loss of such vigor will likewise affect the progeny. Again young men mature quickly in the army and in many cases they will be incapable of doing rough vigorous work such as they have been accustomed to in pre-war days.

The evils of army life are briefly those enumerated inInstitutions of Value. the preceding paragraph. Against these, more or less effective in their work, are such organizations as the Y.M.C.A. The evils are not entirely offset by these institutions but there can be no doubt that they are greatly reduced. With various branches throughout the war area these institutions are doing a great deal to afford relaxation to men coming within their influence. Various diversions and amusements are of inestimable value in providing the necessary means of dispersing that “fed-up” feeling so characteristic in the army. Canteens, church army huts, and above all the postal department are doing work along the same line. It is more profitable to a soldier to spend his time reading mail than over a crown and anchor board or a roulette table. These institutions to some extent provide the advantages of home life but they must inevitably fall far short of perfection.

The Khaki College hampered as it is promises more profitableKhaki College. amusement. Connected work is many ways impossible because of the contingencies of the army since men are moving from place to place almost continuously. For this reason attempts to make progress are somewhat discouraging. Moreover the distractions of army life do not permit of the concentration for good work. Its value will be more appreciated after demobilization or rather during the interval between the last shot fired and the final return to civilian life. Much is being done in anticipation of this period and it deserves every encouragement. Perhaps preference should be given to commercial and technical training which will be invaluable to the average soldier in his search for employment. University men are probably exceptions but the vast majority have no such aims and consequently ample provision should be made along these lines.

With regard to the moral influences at work much couldMoral Problems. be written but perhaps obscurity is only enhanced by a multitude of words. In this sphere the Y.M.C.A., the Chaplain Services, and above all the individual examples of strong men in the ranks, have done much but the work is by no means complete. This is the work of the church and in so far as its task nears completion in France and England, so far will it be lightened at home, after the war. More importance must be attached to the practical than to the theoretical side of the church’s task. Chaplains and Y.M.C.A. officers labour under various disadvantages since an officer’s uniform discourages approach by the men. Moreover many of them are seen only on such occasions as church parades or burying parties and these are recognized as being more of military than of religious importance. Moreover many men are in the habit of depreciating the sincerity of these men since they are non-combatants and as a rule do not go over the top with the men and are more conspicuous on rest than in the line. So too Y.M.C.A. men are credited with holding soft comfortable jobs and having no appreciation of the difficulties of the rank and file. The Chaplain however who does his turn in the line with the men, who goes through the battle with them, has won a large place in the hearts of his men. He will be able to exercise great influence on their characters. These men are powerful aids to a strengthening of the moral tone of the army. Moral influences are greatly hampered in the army but they have already done a great work.

Physical injuries which have been outlined in previousPhysical Remedies. paragraphs must be dealt with medically or in the best known and most expedient manner. Several have fallen prey to venereal diseases. The large centres of population abound with women intent upon their share of every man’s leave money. A great majority of men in the army have been enticed by this evil and many have suffered in consequence. This is being kept in check by education, legislation, and medical treatment but even so there are many who have suffered permanent injury through this disease. The drink evil and smoking—if it is to be regarded as an evil—have made vast inroads on the physical integrity of the army. The effects must be dealt with medically and legislatively for their influence on the welfare of the Canadian people is far reaching and complex.

Many soldiers anticipate marriage on their return andDangers and preventions. many will return who are married already. It would be in the best interests of the state to insist on a medical examination of all applicants for marriage, particularly those who have been in the army, to ensure safety not only to their wives but to their children. The state cannot afford to prejudice the lives of its unborn citizens by sheer negligence in this respect. The health of the people is its greatest consideration. This is an example of the problems created, enhanced, or modified by the return of the army.

The soldier has been studied with the object of analysingConclusion. the marked characteristics produced by army life. The evils of army life physically, mentally and morally and the influences which counteract those evils with more or less success, have been considered. The result must affect the whole of Canada’s social life. It should be emphasized however that work along these lines cannot be undertaken too soon. A great deal is being done but there remains much more to do.

Having outlined broadly the effects of the variousSocial life in Canada: Home influences on the character of the average soldier, and intimated to some extent the bearing of the results of these influences upon Canadian problems, it will be in order to consider more in detail the approximate tendencies and their effects upon Canadian life. The influence which promises the greatest good and which promises to be of the greatest value in the solution of these problems is that of the home. Never has the value of home life been appreciated as it is now particularly by overseas men. The thirst for adventure has been largely satiated and a desire to settle down has made itself felt on most men. It is true in some cases that the roving spirit has only found fresh fuel in the great venture of war but these are on the whole exceptions to the general rule. The social influence so strongly evident in the army will assert itself upon the habits of men in civil life. The desire to migrate will be weakened and the appreciation of home life will have deepened and become stronger.

In the history of Canadian life the church has exercisedChurch. a great influence but if it is to fulfil its mission successfully, it must exercise a still greater influence on the moral tone of that life. The returned soldier has by no means lightened its task. The attitude of indifference which may or will characterize the returned soldier, indifferent toward the problems of life, is particularly noticeable with relation to the question of religion. The church must grapple with this indifference and as it were re-educate the returned men to the old standards of life. This task is difficult to say the least as it involves the problems which have been enhanced by the return of the army. These problems are concrete and for this reason appeals to theory are of no avail, their solution must be concrete. They demand for their solution the careful analysis and study which must characterize the disposal of any problem. The constructive ability of trained leaders is a necessity, men who recognize the evils of society and have the courage to combat them. The furnace of war has melted men into a brotherhood in which the frills of humanity have disappeared. The leaders of the church must appreciate humanity. Until the returned soldier recognizes the value of the church to his life and until the church has convinced him of its value to his life little progress will be made. The needs are, a better trained leadership and the establishment of a church on a war basis, that it may analyse its problems, estimate the requirements of the situation and divert all its energies to the solution of those problems.

The church has exercised a great influence on CanadianThe Press. life and has been a powerful factor in the solution of Canadian problems, not less so has the press. During the period of the war, the press has become to some extent a military weapon, as every other force, devised to direct public opinion along lines aiding the expeditious enforcement of military policy. For this reason on many occasions the truth has not been with it. The press of Canada in its “box-car” headlines has rendered itself particularly susceptible to censure. The glaring accounts or exaggerations of the importance of great victories and the comparative silence in case of defeats are evidences of this fault. The returned soldier with this and previous experience along party lines will have lost considerable confidence in the press. The spirit of journalism has been one of catering to the people’s wants rather than of taking an independent stand; hewing to the line and letting the chips fall where they will. But in spite of this the press must continue to exercise a great influence on the education of the masses. By adopting a higher moral tone, by deserting party and promoting the welfare of the people, by contributing sound judgment and careful analyses of questions relating to public welfare, it can do much to alleviate the severity of and to solve the problems of Canada after the war. The returned soldier will have in the press a powerful aid if it can be persuaded to consult the welfare of the people rather than the welfare of the shareholders or its party.

Still another agent which must help greatly in the practicalThe School. solution of after-war problems is the school. Upon the efficient development of the natural resources of Canada depends in large part the solution of after the war economic problems particularly with regard to labour. The efficient development and conservation of natural resources depends upon more skilled workers and better workers in specialized-trades—that is training must proceed intensively so far as the individual specialist is concerned, and extensively so far as the masses are concerned. An estimate of the various requirements of the situation belongs to another phase of this essay. But is sufficient to say that various occupations are concerned. Stress has been laid on farming as a desirable occupation for returned men. This example illustrates the necessity of training. A man accustomed to army life will need special training to enable him to become a successful farmer. In farming formal education has been sadly neglected but it is a profitable investment for the state thus to develop its resources and incidentally promote the happiness of its citizens. Other occupations which promote the interests of the state by developing its resources will necessarily demand technical training. So with commerce—the establishment of business colleges is a material aid. That the state should undertake the training of the returned solders for the developing of its resources and for the solution of problems of unemployment is in its best interests.

There are various other influences minor in importanceDangerous Influences: Social Evil. to the church, the press, and the school which contribute to the wholesomeness of Canadian life. The home is however paramount and the problems which must be solved will depend in great part for success in their solution upon the strength of home ties. The social evil is a striking instance. Upon release from the army many men will find themselves in possession of considerable money. The tendency to spend the money overnight such as is always more or less the case where men have been accustomed to rough life will be encouraged by the presence of evil women who hope to secure their share. The social evil is present in Canada despite all legislation to the contrary. Without doubt the problem will be enhanced by the return of the soldiers and every precaution must be taken legislatively, educatively, and in every way to combat the evil and make conditions such that they may avoid its grasp. It is impossible to stamp it out by raids nor is segregation more promising. A full study of the question would necessitate proceeding beyond the scope of this essay into investigations of such problems as underpaid women and underpaid men. A panacea cannot be proclaimed but a warning can be issued that the evil will not be lessened with the return of soldiers. The state owes it to those who have defended its existence to provide wholesome environment for them on their return.

The drink evil is attended with similar problems andLiquor Traffic. similar dangers. Prohibition has made great strides in Canada during the years of the war. The soldiers vote has usually been against prohibition and the enforcement of legislation will be rendered more difficult. “Blind-pigs” will be more numerous. The man accustomed to public houses in England and estaminets in France will desire similar conditions at home. Its abolition should be thorough before he returns and its dangers will be very materially lessened. Once it has been abolished it may be forgotten, but otherwise the returned men will be no aid to the solution of the problem.

These are two problems more or less closelyMarriage. interrelated since the two evils are commonly found together. There is another problem closely connected with the social evil which has occasioned considerable discussion in the press of Great Britain and likewise of Canada namely the problem relating to marriage. The verdict of the law which acquitted a man who had lost the affection of his wife through the intrigues of another and who had as a result killed the intriguer has excited considerable attention. The war has called many men from their homes and consequently has subjected many women to temptation. Public opinion rightly or wrongly has influenced and endorsed the decisions of the court. This problem is not so prominent in Canada but its existence cannot be denied. The divorce laws of Canada in many ways are inadequate since most provinces deposit their problems with the Senate who accordingly levy heavy costs on the applicant. The decisions of the law cannot be studied too carefully since their results affect the whole life of the people nor can legislation be too carefully considered before it is enforced. Investigation is necessary but in the name of justice to humanity warning must be taken to avoid steps promising disastrous results. Again a married man on service in England may become a victim to venereal disease. Has not his wife a right to apply for a divorce or must she and her children suffer for his folly? The laws of God and humanity are not in accord with the subjection of one life to misery because of the folly of another. And yet the divorce laws of Canada admit of practically no separation, at least to the poor.

Another phase of the same problem is the increase inDivorce. bigamy attending the marriage of men in England with wives in Canada. The recognition of the evil comes too late. Its effective suppression might follow from steps taken by the military authorities to punish men marrying without their consent. This may be resented by the men concerned, but in the interests not only of women in Canada but of women in England its enforcement is necessary. The best interests of society demand a careful examination of all applicants and these particulars as a rule can be supplied by the military authorities in the individual units.

A discussion of the problems of marriage would not beMarriage Bureaus. complete without reference to various movements endeavoring to promote the marriage of colonials to the women of England. The number of marriages up to the present has been large but it is proposed by matrimonial bureaus to increase them further. It must be admitted that the fusion of various races by intermarriage and by conquest such as characterized early English history greatly strengthens the old stock. This is particularly the case when a strong vigorous race conquers and absorbs a weaker. It may be questioned however whether Canadian stock would be made more vigorous by intermarriage with English stock. No doubt the ties between the two countries would be strengthened but the marrying of English girls and Canadian men does not promise better results than the marrying of Canadian girls of men of their own nationality. The advantage gained through matrimonial bureaus may be outweighed on the whole by the lowering of the tone of Canadian life. It resolves itself into a question of which country has a higher standard of life and this in itself is a subject for controversy.

The effects of the influences of returned soldiersPolitical. on Canadian social life will have an indirect influence on the various institutions of Canada. Great have been the expectations that in this war democracy would at last reign supreme. The advent of such organizations as the Great War Veterans Association promises important results for good or evil depending on policy. What will be the attitude of the Canadian soldier toward political life in general? The soldier suffering untold misery because of gross mistakes caused by the petty politics of partisanship and its attendant graft and corruption will have become wearied of such tactics on his return. The Ross rifle and Canadian fish will long remain in the memories of returned men. There is a tendency to exaggerate the mistakes of a government unaccustomed to war on such a gigantic scale and this is in some ways pardonable. This is however far from the whole truth. Large profits at the expense of the average soldier have characterized the accounts of various companies having government contracts. These have not contributed to the popularity of the party system. The man who has suffered and who has fought for his country is expected to have some interest in its government. For the majority however the indifferent attitude inculcated by army life exerts itself even in this sphere. There will not be a general tendency to violent measures, and reform in political life may even be retarded by this attitude.

This exception must be noted however. There areException. many individuals in the army aside from those who hold permanent grudges against quartermasters, cooks, and military policeman, who have made attempts to understand the situation and who on return to private life anticipate grappling with the prevalent evils of the nation. Municipally, provincially and nationally the returned man, intent on the reform which has been bought at such great price, will exercise a marked influence. The presence of those few who have never lost the gleam of right in all the dark hours, who have endured the hardships of war and who have been tried as by fire, will greatly aid in the reconstruction of our national life along sound lines. Their influence alone will count for much.

The influence of the returned soldier on the politicalEconomic. situation of Canada is in many ways difficult to determine since the whole Canadian people are affected. Undoubtedly it will bear some relation to the success of the solution of economic problems after the war. Unemployment on a large scale would have its influence on the political situation if not through violence, through the force of public opinion. But this is a matter of common occurrence though it leads to the question of the returned soldier in relation to economics in particular and to public welfare in general.

In an introduction to the subject of economics in relationIntroduction. to the returned soldier emphasis must again be placed on the abundance of Canada’s natural resources. This fact alone is a valuable premise from which to start. It forms to use a trench expression, a good jumping-off place. Various and numerous articles have been written and much thought has been given to the settlement of the returned soldier on the land. In dealing with this question there is occasion for neither a pessimistic outlook nor indeed for undue optimism. There is occasion however for a careful study of the problem and a thorough analysis of the situation promising such a difficult solution.

Experience gained along this line in the treatment ofSouth Africa. South African Veterans is of value. At that time as a reward for their service returned men were entitled to the possession of a homestead of one hundred and sixty acres and their deeds to this land has become known as script. The result of this treatment is common knowledge. Many soldiers sold their script for a mess of pottage or for sufficient to enable them to enjoy themselves for at least one night. Consequently many land sharks were on hand to avail themselves of this opportunity of acquiring cheap land. The sections set apart for this purpose eventually found their way into the hands of real estate agents or men with adjoining sections. For this reason the soldier soon found himself penniless while the generosity of the government was of no avail. The unscrupulous land grabber profited at the expense of the returned men though it may be argued that the veteran was alone to blame. It was of no consequence at this juncture who was to blame but the cause of the government failure in dealing with the problem offers valuable suggestions.

The average homestead at that time had few of theCauses of Government’s failure. comforts or advantages of older civilization. It was thought, that the soldier, accustomed to the hardships of the South African campaign, would speedily take to farming as an occupation and hence the land was provided for him. Just as today in certain quarters the opinion is held that the returned soldier because he has endured hardships, because he has lived next to the soil in dugout and trench, will particularly favour farming as an occupation. The fact that at that time expectations were not realized was due to the failure of the authorities to recognize the effects of army life on the average soldier. In the first place the man accustomed to the sociability, the brotherhood, call it what you will, of the army was unable to settle down to a life of isolation which characterizes more or less homestead life. A bachelor on a homestead leads by no means a social life. It was a complete change to army life and in many cases the soldier was unable to respond. The second cause was due to another product of army life which was not likely to fit any man for such a pursuit as farming namely the characteristic of indifference. Farming is essentially an individualistic occupation which to be successful requires constant supervision and almost ceaseless toil. Indifference is an impossible attitude for a farmer; he must be vitally interested in every bargain he makes and in every detail of his work.

The argument that the veterans of this war differedPresent Situation. materially from the veterans of the South African war who were largely a band of adventurers suited to no settled life least of all to farming while our present army has increased to such an extent that it includes men of every occupation and the majority of whom will be more amenable to settled work after the war, has been advanced. To some extent this may be true but is nonetheless true that the characteristics of indifference and sociability have stamped themselves on all men who have come in contact with army life. A questionnaire dealing with some five hundred men has revealed the information that from that number fifty to seventy-five seriously considered farming after the war. Many expect a homestead as a security against a rainy day or in case the value of land should increase. They were agreeable to possession but not to cultivation.

It is unnecessary to elaborate on the advantages ofAdvantages of Farming. farming as an occupation. Its beneficial influence on every aspect of Canadian life is beyond question. It promises to be one of the important means of easing the unemployment problem threatening to accompany after-war conditions. There is no doubt that the interests of Canada depend greatly on the cultivation of the soil which is an important phase of the development of her resources.

This result can be successfully accomplished by overcomingCreation of Social life. to some extent the effects of army life and submitting to some extent to the influences of after-war effects. A homestead of one hundred and sixty acres is too large to permit of a larger social life. The difficulties could be overcome by a system of telephones promoted and owned by the government. By this means loneliness would be dispensed with and the necessary social life provided. Railroads are a great factor in the developing of a country and the towns which inevitably follow will greatly aid in creating the desired social life. These require capital however which will not be too plentiful after the war. It is the duty of the government to create and promote the conditions required for a vigorous social life.

The characteristic of indifference may be overcome toExperimental Farms. some extent by a course of training in agriculture. A series of experimental farms located in various centres throughout Canada supported by the government and giving at least a year’s training would help materially. This investment would well repay the state resulting as it would in more agricultural produce, better methods of farming, and a solution partial at least of the unemployment problem.

A word may be said as to the remunerative possibilitiesWage problem. of farming as an occupation. Neither the average wages nor the average conditions of labour in the eastern provinces are on the whole sufficiently attractive to the ordinary laborer. It is very difficult for anyone with little or no capital to start on an eastern farm with any hope of success. Capital is dear in the west but there is more opportunity for acquiring land. In the east the farmer is faced with a heavy mortgage, while in the west he must continually dodge machine agents and loan sharks. In either case it is very difficult for a man who has never been accustomed to farming to have any success. The situation in the east is not pleasant with its increasing acreage in pasture and a shifting of the population from rural to urban localities. Conscription has caused an impetus to the back-to-the-land movement and the result may be permanent to some extent. In conclusion the returned soldier and the settlement of the land promise difficulties, but difficulties which may be overcome by persistence and organization on the part of the government. The question of capital which has been broached in this paragraph may be conveniently left until later when it may be dealt with in detail.

Other extractive industries such as lumbering, fishingWage problem. and mining, may be dealt with in a consideration of labor. Land has features peculiar to itself and for this reason it has been treated separately. It might be stated however that the government could do much to relieve the labor situation by actively promoting by scientific investigation and by subsidizing if necessary, industries promising to be of value to the state. The conservation and development of resources must ultimately be the solution of all economic problems.

The relation of the settlement of the returnedThe right to work. soldier on the land to the question of unemployment suggests a consideration of the whole subject. The task ultimately resolves itself into organization and in this, broad, sound statesmanship is urgently in demand. The resources are more than sufficient to utilize all surplus labor occasioned by the return of soldiers and the closing of munition factories. The right to work which has been advocated as one of the rights of the returned soldier is a direct charge upon the government to perfect its organization that unemployment shall be at a minimum and that resources of the nation shall be both conserved and developed. The view that the soldier is entitled to a reward of pension, to charity or philanthropy from the government finds small favour even among soldiers themselves. On a rough estimate five per cent. have adopted this attitude and even these are not conspicuous for long service. Indeed this attitude has received its quietus since the whole manhood of the nation has been conscripted. They do expect on the whole however fair play and a right to earn a decent living and they are entitled at least to these.

Following the enunciation of the right to work it isEstimates. evident that there will be considerable unemployment after the war. There have been no controversies as to this. Colonel Dennison after carefully reviewing various estimates has stated that at least a surplus of one hundred thousand unemployed could be expected. In securing work for this number various expedients have been devised by those interested in the solution of the problem. The promotion of industries by the investigation of the possibilities of our resources along the lines of scientific research, the encouragement of technical training, the subsidising of industries necessary to the state as in the early history of the Dominion Steel companies, all promise effective means of solving the unemployment problem more or less satisfactorily. State factories in the history of such experience in other countries, promise no solution. Public ownership does not come within the scope of this essay but individual competition should be the standard except in industries which are of national importance. It does not offer a satisfactory solution to the problem of unemployment.

A treatment of the unemployment question is incompleteImmigration. without reference to immigration. A task promising considerable difficulty and much misery if it is not dealt with successfully, will not be furthered in its solution by an increase in immigration. Opinion varies as to whether there will be a tendency for immigration to increase after the war. Unemployment will be more pronounced in countries more impoverished by war than Canada and this may lead to a movement of population towards younger countries. The Canadian soldier has fought for this right at least the right that Canada and for that matter every nation must be free to develop its individuality without interference from outside powers. Canada must in her own interests admit only those immigrants that promise to be a value to the state and who do not threaten her standard of living. Immigration in the interest of a transportation company is not necessarily in the interest of Canada. Until the surplus labour has been absorbed and the unemployment problem following the cessation of war has been solved immigration should be restricted.

The enlisting of the man power of a nation for foreignWoman Labour. service has called into existence an increase of woman labour for the carrying on of home industries. With the cessation of war many of these women may be reluctant to step from the independent position they occupied while earning their own living. Factory laws for the period of the war have been more or less disregarded in the interests of increased production not only of munitions but of other products. After the war in the interests of public health a more rigid enforcement of these laws will be necessary. The state would undoubtedly gain through the individuality of its women but it would lose if it forgot that woman’s greatest influence is in the home. On the other hand on the return of the men with families the necessity for women to support the household will no longer exist. Many will welcome a return to the old conditions of life and the more who do welcome this return the easier will be the solution of the problem of unemployment.

As factory laws have been more or less disregarded inTrade Unions. the interests of increased production, so the trade unions have forgotten their differences in the presence of a disaster which threatened the world. It is generally agreed more in England than in Canada, that the old status will be resumed after the war. Unions in particular trades will be subject to particular difficulties. The Trainmen’s Unions offer striking example. Firemen, engineers, brakemen and conductors have enlisted with a guarantee that their seniority will remain while they are on active service. Out of the 500 men interviewed about 70 including telegraph operators were railroad men, all of whom expected their seniority on return. Some of these were receiving extra wages as they had been working on railroads in France and had consequently lost nothing in experience. Others have been in other branches of the service and are not as skilled as those who have been railroading for the whole period of the war, yet they too expect seniority. It is obvious that seniority to these might reasonably prejudice, not only the company’s interest but the public welfare. It is difficult to determine what viewpoint the union should take, whether to favor the man who has the right to seniority through ability, or the man who has a right to seniority because he has protected the country’s interest by enlisting. The public welfare must be the standard though preference should be shown to the man who is capable in spite of service in the Army. If the retention of a man incapable of good work is not in the best interests of the state that man should be given other work more suitable to his abilities. Trade Unions have done much as advocates of the rights of the working man against the evils of free competition. Unemployment will by no means lighten their task since their power to strike excepting special industries will be of slight avail. Their progress will be impeded but their work so long as it does not conflict with public welfare will be of immense value. They can by broad measures, and perhaps at some self-sacrifice, help in the solution of the unemployment problem. Working in conjunction with the Government in estimating the requirements of various occupations, their knowledge would be of great value. Their task is difficult but it is essentially a task in the public welfare.

Organization, sufficiently effective to be an aidStatistics. to the solution of various pressing labour problems, will depend more or less on the accuracy of the estimates of the requirements of the situation. The labour department or the department of demobilization should collect data as to the occupations of overseas men and estimate the opportunities afforded for giving them work at their own occupation. The possibilities of farming as an occupation to relieve the unemployment problem could be roughly estimated. In co-operation with Trade Unions and from other sources the possibilities of other occupations could be more accurately estimated. The unemployed labour resulting from the closing of munition factories can be accurately estimated. Statistics can be collected as to the displacement of women; as to the number of men in England, the number who propose staying in England and the relative fighting strength in France. The result of all this gathering of statistics cannot be accurate but it will afford a rough estimate of the requirements. This crude analysis of the demands of the future based on statistics of the present day will at least enable the Government to ascertain which way the wind is blowing and to steer their course accordingly.

The dove-tailing of industries with regard to labour hasDovetailing Industries. often been advanced and its merits are worthy of note in view of the coming storm. Some industries such as lumbering and the hauling of grain in the west are essentially work for the winter season. During the winter more men can be employed in these industries. In the spring the fishing industry requires more men and so too with farming. The summer seldom has questions of unemployment nor has the autumn with its western harvest. These are examples of the method of developing the resources and relieving unemployment. During every season there are particular industries with their peculiar characteristics demanding more labour. This is all the more feasible in its relation to the unemployment problem as the army is largely made up of single men, who are more easily moved from one place to another as the particular industry demands. The transportation promises difficulties but these could be overcome with persistence. It must be recognised that the dove-tailing of industries is not a panacea but one remedy suggested among many. Organization is the hope of the situation, guided by a careful estimate of the requirements, and an attempt to develop and conserve the resources in the most scientific manner. It is not a question of state interference but it is a question of relieving unemployment and its attendant miseries as well as fulfilling obligations to the men who have been the protectors of the state.

The question of securing work for the returnedCapital. soldier cannot be answered in full without consulting his financial possibilities. Those who have seen a long period of service will be entitled to a considerable sum of money while everyone will be entitled to a certain amount. Provided that this is not spent overnight in a celebration of release from Army life it will spare the returned man many of the miseries of unemployment. But the returned man should be allowed to keep this without being forced to spend it immediately in order to keep from starving. Certainly such treatment would not be in the best interests of the returned men nor indeed of the state. The consideration of capital as it effects various occupations is essential as well. Farming much lauded as a suitable occupation for returned men requires capital. Upon the ownership of capital will depend to some extent the choice of occupation. Endowed with a comfortable sum of money he is not apt to favor particularly arduous manual labour.

A warning may be stated here that the ownershipA Warning. of money is of less importance than the ability to keep it. Having in view the characteristics of the returned soldier, the majority of whom are not from Aberdeen, it is essential to emphasize the need for protection from “sharks” who are not above taking money wherever it can be found. The soldier has suffered at the hands of profiteers while on active service and there is equal danger that his money may be taken unscrupulously on his return. Without undue interference with the private affairs of returned men some means should be devised to prevent him from losing his money overnight. It cannot be too strongly emphasized that a clean country will greatly overcome these dangers and the moment to commence these cleaning operations is the present.

In the arguments relating to the settlement ofAgricultural Credit. the returned soldier on the land an examination in detail of the capital side of the question was intimated. For a man with perhaps a year’s training or perhaps a life training in agricultural, capital is a pre-requisite to success. The money obtained on discharge from the army is of slight avail. The need of capital to acquire land in the east and to cultivate land in the west has been emphasized. With interest in the west at 8 to 10% a mortgage in a short time assumes gigantic proportions. The possibility of raising a mortgage of from 5,000 to 8,000 dollars in the east even at a low rate of interest is slight. The solution of the difficulty in both places lies in the extension of agricultural credit by the Government. The banks with an eye to their own interests rather than the interests of the country cannot be expected to do much—this is amply proven by experience. The Government by supplying money at a low rate of interest would benefit the country as much as by supplying money to a capitalistic organization such as the C.N.R. The possibilities of agricultural credit have been by no means exhausted nor indeed for that matter investigated.

The scarcity of capital after the war will notCanada’s Credit. result in a tendency on the part of the Government to undertake new enterprises. Such schemes as new railroads which will tend greatly to open up a new country and promote agriculture will be forced to wait. Telephones, the advantages of which have been enumerated, and all improvements promising returns only after a long period, but which are undoubtedly secure investments, will be hampered in their promotion. So far as Canada’s ability to obtain capital is concerned, her position is sound. These considerations are beyond the scope of this essay but they illustrate the inter-relationship of the problems of the returned soldier and the problems of Canadian life. Resources are essential and evident; organization is valuable and possible; but capital is necessary to secure the co-operation of these two factors in the development of the nation.

Conclusion.

In conclusion the fact is necessary for the solution of the problems of the returned soldier, which are the problem of Canada in perspective, are at hand and in abundance. A people, virile and possessed of energy, characteristic of the products of the climate; resources surpassed by no country; capital, as to which the financial situation of Canada need cause no fear; and above all the possibility of organization such that those factors may be so utilized as to promote the best interests of the nation; these are the corner stones of national progress. Work is the first and only road to prosperity, national and enduring. The evils of army life so far as they have influenced the returned soldier must be combated as well as the evils of civilian life to which the soldiers return, the remedies are similar and their effectiveness in either case depends largely on the influences of the home, the school, the press and the church, or on education in general. The unemployment problem which threatens after the war will depend for its solution on the co-operation of the Canadian people and on the courage of the Canadian Government. At the present moment the task of the Canadian people is that of cleaning house preparatory to the return of her citizen army. There are difficulties which will only be surmounted by a thorough investigation of the problems followed; and by application of the lessons learned. Our experience has been slight but valuable particularly in relation to the solution of the unemployment problem. It is no occasion for faintheartedness but in the name of those who have fallen in the defence of the liberties of the country and in obligation to those who have returned from that struggle, the Canadian people have before them the task of presenting to the world, a nation morally and materially great, a monument worthy of the men living and dead who have made this possible.

The results of the questionnaire have been left in the form of an appendix. In the essay these statistics collected from some five hundred able-bodied and disabled soldiers have not been consulted frequently and indeed in some cases they have been purposely avoided. The value of such a premature compilation is inherent in the fact that it shows the possibility of arriving at definite and valuable conclusions when considered on a larger scale. The fact that from Toronto alone forty-seven students were interviewed is largely a result of chance. This large percentage of students and the absence of some occupations altogether would discredit all attempts to arrive at definite conclusions on such a small scale. The result is so much the evidence from chance interviews that it is extremely hazardous to state conclusions. If such an undertaking was entered upon on a large scale having the whole Canadian army as its field the results would be of inestimable value.

In the table showing the distribution of some five hundred cases in occupations and in localities nothing definite is shown but tentative conclusions illustrating the trend of conditions respecting after-the-war employment problems may be stated. Of the 65 farmers, 6 out of the 23 from Western Canada were incapacitated and expected to follow some other occupation while the remainder expected to return to farm work. In the East, Ontario and the Maritime provinces, 8 were incapacitated but expected to follow agricultural pursuits if possible with the exception of 4. The remainder of the 65 anticipated returning to their old occupations. On the whole those who were farmers previous to enlisting have little other desire but to return to old pastures.

The percentage of students is large. Out of 95 students, 30 have almost given up notions of starting again on their old course largely because army life has so disconnected them from their student life. Of these 30, a small percentage expected to return to farming while about 25 expected to take up business work. The remaining 65 expected to resume their old work. Of the total 24 were to some extent incapacitated for manual work but not for general student activities.

With reference to those in business the various natures of business has had some influence. Out of 88 business men, 21 were in the army as a result of failure. The majority of these hoped to re-enter the field of business though 7 have chosen farming. The remainder expected to resume work on old stands. On the whole business men expected to start again even though it meant starting at the bottom.

Cooks were largely those who had cooked in lumber camps and they were with the exception of 1 looking forward to life in the woods as preferable to life in the army. Lumbermen were of much the same opinion. The lumberjack who was not incapacitated expected a return to the old life. Of the 3 who were incapacitated they had little care as to what happened in the future. Conductors without exception expected their old positions and with their seniority as well. The same could be said of express agents and likewise of those who had been in the militia. Once an old soldier always an old soldier. Of the 35 laborers 12 had dreams of starting in some small business of their own while the remainder had no visions of the future with the exception of 7 who expected to go on the land.

In connection with real estate 4 have sworn to start farming while the remainder who had some investments intended returning to the old occupation. With homesteaders three were incapacitated with no training of any kind and with little care as to the future while the remainder had not given up hopes of improving the land on which they had been exempted from taxation. Of the adventurers (12) and they could scarcely be classed otherwise they expected to return, work in one locality, and then travel to the next. These were on the whole the average hoboes.

Out of 25 firemen, 9 were in some way incapacitated and expected to go on a farm or to ask the company for a job in a machine shop in which their incapacity would not hinder them. The remainder like other railroad men expected their seniority. The porter a little ‘Jap’ though incapacitated expected to return to his old work in a Regina hotel. Of the 31 operators, all expected to return to their old occupations in some telegraph office. They, too, expected seniority and in the case of incapacity, reasonable treatment from the railroad company. Plumbers expected their old job on return and bankers were no exception. So too brakemen expected seniority and work with the company and of blacksmiths the same held true. Machinists hoped to return to the old trade.

Speculators might well be classed with adventurers since they were more of the professional hobo type. The majority had enlisted to escape the law and they probably intended going into the old trade on return. Painters are not to be spoken of in the same breath with speculators but they too expected the old occupation. Of 7 engineers the total expected their old jobs on return with seniority as well. Out of 11 moulders, 2 were incapacitated but the remaining 9 with two exceptions who expected to enter the business profession, expected to return to their old trade. Out of 6 sailors, 2 were incapacitated while as to the remaining 4 they expected to resume the old life of adventure. Shoemakers expected to resume old occupation.

A few general conclusions may be stated though with the warning that necessarily they must be only tentative. Those who were incapacitated for the old work expected training in some new occupation or they were of the carefree spirit and had no thoughts beyond the present. Those of the adventurous type, lumbermen, speculators etc. still retain the old spirit of adventure. Those who have special training such as moulders, plumbers and blacksmiths expected to return to their old occupation. Railroad men invariably expect much of the companies for which they worked before enlistment and invariably they expect seniority. Very few have definitely stated a desire to go on the farm after the war. Those who have farms with few exceptions expected to return to them but otherwise they were looking elsewhere.

Harold A. Innis.

TRANSCRIBER NOTES

Misspelled words and printer errors have been corrected. Where multiple spellings occur, majority use has been employed.

Punctuation has been maintained except where obvious printer errors occur.

Headings have been added replacing some sidenotes for ease of reading.

A legend was added to a table in the appendix to accommodate page size.

A cover which is placed in the public domain was created for this ebook.

[The end of The Returned Soldier, by Harold Adams Innis]