THE BELGIAN FUND

Dominion, Volume 8, Issue 2280, 14 October 1914, Page 6

THE BELGIAN FUND

CONSUL-GENERAL'S ACKNOWLEDGMENTS. (To the Editor.) Sir,—So far an has 'been pbssiblo either I or tho Vice-Consul have acknowledged the receipt of each contribution to tho fund for the relief of distress in Belgium, but as there are many anonymous donors and others whom ive have not been able to reach, I bog that you will afford mo space in your journal to publicly thank each and' all. May I claim that universal opinion accords to Belgium imperishable honour in her decision to bar tho way to Germany's effort for world-wide power? For others this momentous decision meant material help, but for them, a small and wholly peaceful people, the immediate dread consequences of doing the right thing were , certain and have indeed been appallingly disastrous. France will no doubt not forgot her great obligation. The British Empire

—true to her word—is by land and ses, actively and efficiently engaged in her defence, and with her forces, relations ond friends of your readers, are already experiencing the horrors of war; but to none has come or., will come the unspeakable atrocities inflicted on the Belgians. On Saturday I witnessed an assembly of the Now Zealand Expeditionary Force. It was an inspiring sight, but saddening to think of so many of your best men having to leave this, young and distant country on such an errand. But England has called, and they go t<) join with her in what has become a life and death stmgglo for all peoples who would be free. . . It is splendid that in spite of tho sacrifice which New Zealand is called on to bear, her peoplo do not forget Belgium. Yet when ono thinks of the shameful demand made on the Belgians, .the instant and indignant refusal, the heroic defence of Liege, the subsequent gallant resistance- wherever possible, one cunnot wonder that all hearts are 60 stirred with pity and admiration that in addition to military support for England, substantial aid in money and in other ways is so freely offered by New Zoalanders for tho relief of distress in Belgium. These generous contributions must be for His Majesty King Albert, his Ministers, and people a most gratifying recognition of the service they have rendered in refusing to overwhelming forces the free use of their country ae a means for- better attack on a friendly nation. I have to thank you, Mr. Editor, for the ninny sympathetic and appreciative references which have appeared in the columns of your paper, and also for your consideration in publishing this list of contributions. By arrangement with the Hon. Mr. Allen, Dominion Treasurer, all money subscribed is being cabled to London free of charge. Over £5000 has already been sent.— I am, etc.,. C. J. JOHNSTON, Consul-Genernl. JJolginn Consulate, Wellington, October 13.