Correspondence.

Feilding Star, Volume XVIII, Issue 36, 11 August 1896, Page 2

Correspondence.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE STAB. Sib, — For some time past I have been watching in vain for a fuller expression of public opinion against the Prohibition craze ; up to this time Mr J. B. Roots seems to be the only local champion ; it is a fact that Mr Hoots' efforts are highly appreciated by many worthy people, both for his ability, and his manliness. He evidently is one having the courage of his convictions ; but as Mr Roots mostly quotes from a quasi-religious point of view he has unintentionally provoked the wrath of certain men who see a second gospel in Prohibition. Now, sir, while you freely open your columns for the discussion of current topics, you have a right to expect a reasonable brevity. This I promise. How is it that many people are losing sight of the great and glorious past of the British nation ? Let us not forget, that during the centuries in which the foundation was Ibid of all that we now enjoy ; that the national beverage was beer ; that wholesome beer was the drink of men and heroes, and if it was neither a sin nor crime in those days to take a mug of beer why should it be now ? I should ask did Nelson figbt the battle of Trafalgar on a bottle of ginger pop. Did Hawkins, Drake and Gilbert crush the Spaniards by the help of Prohibition cordials % On the surface, it would appear we did not as a race appreciate the traditions of England's glory. It is, alas, too true, that many who pose as leaders, and teachers, are ready to sacrifice all liberty, and individual freedom, for the prosecution of a fad; it is patent to all with understanding that Prohibitionists, and some politicians, are using all their endeavor* by fair and unfair means to rob New Zealand of freedom, public and social enjoyment, and all that makes life worth living ; vide et crede the legislation of the last five years, including Prohibition, women's franchise, and other rubbish ; with a lot of the politicians, from Seddon downwards, pandering to almost- any craze for the sake of votes ; fancy the present Premier with his antecedents and his natural tastes assuming marked attentions to the Prohibition party. Now, sir, I have no interest in the liquor traffic, but am deeply interested in true temperance ; so long as the campaign was conducted on fair lines, i.e., teetotal advocacy without compulsion, I was a supporter and felt the temperance cause had a noble aim ; and looked upon the workers as persons fired with a philanthropic stimulus ; but conditions are now altered, it is not loving persuasion but crushing force. A noted Englishman said he would rather see England drunken and free than sober and slave bound. It is unwise to appeal to any but the best instincts, and I feel that the time has come when every man, whatever his religion, politics, or social status— not being a Prohibitionist — should declare himself on the absolutely vital question of personal liberty. Those of my fellow colonists who think with me may be indifferent to danger ; but the enemy in the form of Prohibition is on the alert to foist slavery upon us by a side wind, as women suffrage was foisted. I am, etc., H. C. Wilson.