KEIR HARDIE IN INDIA.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2206, 9 October 1907, Page 1

KEIR HARDIE IN INDIA.

[Tj the Editor.]

Sir,— Although froodom of spocch and freedom of thought arc permitted throughout tho British Kmpire, I regret to see an individual, who has apparently received a little more than tho rudiments of education, bo profoundly ignorant of the history of our Indian Empire as to uphold the attitude of such a man as Ivoir Hardio towards our rule there. I would adviso P.J.H. to study tho history of India from tho earliest times. He could then compare intelligently the stato of that country 100 or 1000 years ago with its present condition, and tho benefits of British rulo would bo perhaps apparent to his mind. I doubt if ho can know anything of Eastern character, or of tho present; mutinous feeling among a fow millions of the lower classes of tho Indian peoples, a feeling of unrest akin to tlio seething discontent prior to the Mutiny, fomented by disappointed office-seekers among the educated Indians, and by seditious fanatics. To tho latter class Keir Hardie may bo likened, and to tho ignorant, criminal interference of supli men as him may bo traced some of the greatest trials through which tho British i

in India have passed. In his search for notoriety, what does be preach? Homo Rule for In-, dial Does lie for a moment imagine*

that the removal of tho British from India will reconcile the scores of contending factions existing there now? The linos of demarcation between Hindoos, Brahmins, Alohammedans, Parsees, are as strong as ever, and once the controlling hand of tho driver is taken away, the pack would fight like Esquimoaux dogs. There would bo an end to security of life and property, and a wave of bloodshed and rapine would sweep over tlio whole country, destroying in one red flood all tho civilising, selfsacrificing labors of our most enlightened statesmen of the past century for the betterment of the inhabitants of India.

There is no question but that Keir Hardio should bo deported from India, and shunned by New Zealanders as a dangerous firebrand. Though of little influence among us, his power is exaggerated, his mission misrepresented and his speeches enlarged upon by evory traitorous editor and student in India, inciting to roit and revolt tho vast Asiatic mobs only held in subjection by tho stern grip of authority. Every word of encouragement Koir Hardio gets from such as J. P. H. is magnified by tho watchful and seditious press of India into tho tacit approval of tho British public towards their claim to self rule.

I sincerely liopo that this great and fearless spirit with liis eminent intellect will meet with the reception he deserves—which will not be a welcome from any loyal and intelligent citizen.—l am, etc., C. G. B. Gisborne October Bth.