The Word “Empire”

AT a luncheon given in London to the Empire representatives on the 25th instant Mr. W. Massey, representing New Zealand, is said to have warned those who suggested republican ideals by saying that the limited monarchy of England represented the best ideal of popular freedom and was so recognised in the Dominions. This explanation was probably made with reference to a question asked in the House of Commons sometime back by Mr. Lynch whether it would not be useful to consult the Dominion representatives, who were present in London, the objections raised for the use of the word “Empire” in official documents “on account of its associations in history, and its present implication, according to German usage of military domination.” Mr. Lynch suggested a more happy word applicable to community of nation forming the British Empire and signifying “freedom of development of each part according to its destiny.”