human
The Canadian output will soon have to be reckoned with, he said.
gpt
In the meantime, it's the effect of a general expansion throughout the world that I'm counting on. What has been done in Canada is being done everywhere. Look abroad and see! The American middle West linked up with new railroads, grain pouring out to New York and Baltimore; Californian wheat shipments doubling, and the Walla country in Oregon all one grain belt. They're tapping new soil in Argentina; Australia and Chile are being exploited wherever they get rain; and British irrigation works in Egypt and India will have their effect.
human
One feels tempted to inquire where Mr. Harding secured this mass of information?
gpt
You can get a good deal for a few dollars' subscription to New York papers, Harding answered dryly.
human
When the snow's deep, men with no amusements have time to read. But that's beside the question. I must now ask you to consider the improvement in transport. Locomotives are doubling their size and power; you have seen the new grain cars. The triple-expansion engine is cutting down ocean freight, making distance of no account. All countries must compete in the world's markets with the cheapest grower. To survive in the struggle that's coming, one must use efficient tools.
gpt
And what will happen after the markets have been flooded?
human
Then, said Harding gravely,
gpt
We are losing sight of the general produce and dairy scheme, Mowbray remarked.
human
Have you anything to tell us on this point?
gpt
Not much. Winnipeg is growing, so is Brandon, and they'll provide good markets for farming truck; but the country that will ask for most is British Columbia.
human
Rather a long way off!
gpt
Wait and see, said Harding.
human
They're opening new mines and sawmills all over the province; Columbia's aim is industrial, not agricultural, and most of the land there is rock and forest. They're cut off from the Pacific States by the tariff, and naturally they'll turn to us across the Rockies. I foresee our sending general produce west instead of east. Now, although I've taken up too much time, will you give me a minute to read some figures?