So also is it true that the common man derives no material advantage from the national success along this line, though he commonly believes that it all somehow inures to his benefit.

It would seem that an ingrown bias of community interest, blurred and driven by a jealously sensitive patriotic pride, bends his faith uncritically to match his inclination.

His persuasion is a work of preconception rather than of perception.
But the most substantial and most unqualified material benefit currently believed to be derivable from a large unfolding of national prowess and a wide extension of the national domain is an increased volume of the nation's foreign trade, particularly of the export trade.

"Trade follows the Flag." And this larger trade and enhanced profit is presumed to inure to the joint benefit of the citizens.

Such is the profession of faith of the sagacious statesmen and such is also the unreflecting belief of the common man.
It may be left an open question if an unfolding of national prowess and prestige increases the nation's trade, whether in imports or in exports.