Very few would have had the courage to remain silent and undaunted whilst condemned or judged for things he had been unable to alter or to banish.

And yet this was precisely the attitude to which Sir Alfred Milner faithfully adhered.

It stands out among the many proofs which the present Viscount Milner has given of his strong character as one of its most characteristic features, for it affords a brilliant illustration of what will, mastered by reason, can do.
Since those perilous days I have heard many differing criticisms of Lord Milner's administration as High Commissioner in South Africa.

What those who express opinions without understanding that which lies under the surface of history fail to take into account is the peculiar, almost invidious position and the loneliness in which Sir Alfred had to stand from the very first day that he landed in Table Bay.

He could not make friends, dared not ask anyone's advice, was forced always to rely entirely upon his own judgment.