Canada, where the rule of law still governs the land

To the Editor--

Why is it that Canada has been able to make a significant number of arrests in a terrorist case without spying on their citizens and otherwise breaking the law? Why is it that the Canadian Prime Minister was able to make a joke about plans to take his life? Why is it that Canadian Parliament buildings remain open to the public after plans were discovered to destroy them? Canadians recognize that changing their way of life or veering away from the rule of law represents the ultimate victory for terrorism.

It seems that the Canadian government still views its role as one largely concerned with governance, rather than using an unfortunate situation to make a naked grab for power. Canadian law enforcement seems to view its job as upholding and enforcing the law of the land, rather than doing the bidding of a power mad Administration with no regard for the rule of law. As if the plight of this Administration was not embarassing enough, the Canadians have shown just how unncessary all of the draconian measures of the White House are. The Canadians are clearly aware that to do so would be to concede the ultimate victory to terrorists: the loss of our way of life and the freedom so many have died to protect. Shame on you again, shame on all of them: President Bush, VP Cheney, Alberto Gonzales. These three names are far more dangerous to America than any terrorist.