Mr. TISDALE.

As definite as possible, but in figures ; (3) the estimated expenditures of the war office, if they have it, on these men and all other expenses, if they have it, connected with the maintenance of the establishment and the pay, or in any way connected with the garrison ; (4) the estimated expenditures of the cost of the number of men who are to be substituted and their incidentals ; (5) the estimated expenditures of the fortifications themselves for the year. I think we are entitled to this Information and that is all I wish.

Mr. TISDALE.

Including the allowances the salary provided is a very comfortable one and it has enabled us to get a veiy efficient officer.

Mr. TISDALE.

In other words there may be anticipated a very large expenditure. It will all depend on how these fortifications are manned and armed at the present time.

Mr. TISDALE.

If these fortifications were only for the defence of Canada it would be an entirely different thing. I do not want to oppose this proposition if I possibly can avoid it, but I certainly must know what we are doing before I support it. Speaking as a Canadian I would be proud to make an expenditure for the joint defence of the empire and of Canada, but it goes past pride and becomes conceit when any one thinks that the defence of Canada is more important than the defence of the empire. I will join with the government in any reasonable expense, but I want first to know what we are about.

Mr. TISDALE.

Don't begin too fast, and don't begin unnecessarily, and don't forget that you are now undertaking not only to defend Canadian interests but imperial interests as well. It is one thing to provide

for the defences of Canada alone, and it is another thing to undertake the defence of the empire.