We must not forget that if we attempt by general reservations or amendments to alter the splendid purposes of the covenant or weaken it so far as it affects our duties. it can not be expected that other nations will not follow our lead. Having demonstrated our altruism and unselfishness in this war and our overpowering strength and sublime heroism. is it not rather beneath our iegl Is to ask special privileges when the peace of the world and the welfare and happiness of mankind is involved? That part of the covenant which refers to the exemption of domestic matters from consideration by the league says: If the dispute between the parties Is claimed by one of them and is found by the council to arise out of a matter which by international law is solely within the domestic jurisdiction of that party. the council shall so report and shall make no recommendation as to its settlement. (Art. 15.) Upon reading this provision of the covenant those opposed argue that the language does not place implortant mnatters of domestic concern. like immigration and tariff. out of the jurisliction of the council or of the assembly. They propose reservations exempting the consideration of these matters from the league. This action I think unnecessary. for the reason that the higlst tribunal in our land has decided that by the rules of international law subjects of this kind are absolutely and exclusively within the jurisdiction of this country. inherent as a right of sovereignty and therefore impossible of alienation by treaty.
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immigration