THAT OPEN LETTER.

Dominion, Volume 5, Issue 1336, 13 January 1912, Page 6

THAT OPEN LETTER.

Sir,—l was not surprised to, see that the New Zealand.. Alliance aro up against Archdcacon Harper. It is uot my purpose to defend tho reverend gentleman, who, judging from, his manly utterances, is qui to capablc of dealing with those whom he lias deemed prudent to take to task. I have not tho honour of knowing tho reverend gentleman even by sight, but I heartily endorse his sentiments. Tho liquor question is now over for another three years, and might I cravo your indulgence to give my candid opinion of the present system of No-License? Since I attained my franchise I havo resided for six years in a No-Lioense district. On tho first tliree ballots I consistently voted No-Licenss- for I conscientiously (relieved that the doing- of tho open bar would help that small section of tho community who wore guilty of over-indulg-ence. Six years ago I was offered the position of organiser for tho "Trade" at a remuneration running wiell into threo figures, but declined, and my voto was ono ot those that made my district a "dry" area. .This proves that I made a sacrifico for conscience sake. As one associated with various bodies which brought me in contact with a very large section of tho community, I have beea reluctantly compolled to change my views, and have no hesitation in stating that in my opinion tho evils of No-Liceneo are very much greater than under the system of license. It is No-License pure and simple, private drinking by keg parties in rooms, reserves, otc., that is responsible for very many young men drinking regularly until tho early hours of the morning, and loth that I am to say it, I know of quite a number of young men who havo not only lost their self-respcct, but responsible positions as well. I oould onlargo further on tho question, but probably this is unnecessary at this junctura. ■ I do not desire publicity, so -will not sign my name, but you aro at liberty to give my name and address to any person who may desire tho same to establish my boua-fidos.—l am, etc EX NO-LICENSE.