Always does he identify himself with the mechanics and labourers with whom his earlier years were spent, and by whose support he has risen to office.

The more honours for Mr.John Burns, the more does it seem to this stalwart optimist that the working class is honoured.

He arrays himself in court dress at the palaces of kings, receives honorary degrees at Universities, and is kept before the public by the newspaper paragraphist, without wincing or pretending to dislike it.
Why should the workman not be esteemed by kings and universities?
Mr.Burns asks.

So great is his self-respect that the respect of others is taken as a matter of course.

Much of the criticism that has been directed against Mr.
John Burns misses the mark, because it does not recognise that the motive power at work all the time in his career is the triumph of his class.