Both were aware that England was richly stored
with the most serviceable of all minerals, coal and iron, in convenient
proximity; that her large flocks of sheep supplied both wool and leather;
that Ireland had been encouraged in the cultivation of flax; that the
convenience of intercourse between mother country and her neighbors,
especially America, had enabled England to engage largely in the
manufacture of the three textile staples, wool, flax, and cotton. But
material resources are only one element in great industrial successes.
Both labor and capital are equally essential.
Englishmen have strength and skill. In delicate and artistic
manipulation, however, the Englishman may be surpassed, but he possesses
in a rare degree great capacity for physical application to work, also
tremendous mental energy and perseverance. Most of the world's valuable
and great inventions, as successfully applied to the leading industries,
were made by the English.
Though England has neither gold nor silver mines, yet for centuries she
has commanded vast capital. Her trading enterprise, which has made the
Englishman conspicuous round the world, existed long before the Norman
conquest. Helpful and consistent legislation has also favored British
industries.
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