In these days of widespread doubt and anxiety it is reassuring to remember that heretofore nations have gone through rigorous tests and trials, and have survived. They have more than survived. They have grown through the test of vicissitude. Growth is inevitable to the nation that has faith in right and acts in accordance therewith. The spirit of liberty is indestructible. Cast down for the moment, apparently, it rises again in glory enhanced.
In all periods of history have peaceful nations indulged the illusion that they were immune from attack. Satisfied with their possessions and their mode of living, they have fancied that other nations also were contented with their lot and hence would not be moved by jealousy to conquest and pillage.
The nation that neglects to take adequate defense measures, spiritual and material, is never safe. Its very wealth, if wealth it has, is an invitation to invasion from the have-nots. All of which has been borne in upon the United Nations through sad experience.
