Minister for Defence

Horowhenua Chronicle, 16 January 1917, Page 3

Minister for Defence

~ , * MEETS A KNUT. With eaich succeeding 'draft -of recruits, there are always one or moro ha;rd cases who liven up the .farewell proceedings considerably. The other evening was no- exception to the rule, and the crowd on the wharf was kept intensely amused by the vain endeav'ore of a hero-to-ba to| gain the ear oif the Minister for Defence who stood not far away. Standing up in a conspicuous place, the hefty recruit spoke volubly of the sacrifice of £1000 lie had made in order to got away and he wonted to know what the mischief (he didn't saiyl mischief, but he' meant it) 'the Government would do for him if he came back' crippled for life? Mr Allen heard this portion' of the remark and stated that he would be well looked after. Then he wanted a closer interview, and in most familiar terms, said: "Jiimmy, you're a man; be a sport and shake hands with a son of the soil." The Minister was about to accede to the request when the eager one fell off his perch and missed his opportunity. After gathering himself together the recruit rattled off to the following effect as the boat edged away from the wharf: ."Look here, Jimmy, the first time you come to Treutham, ask for Trooper (I'll have a number then), and I'll flinc; me Happens round your bloomin' neck!"— Marlborough Press. ,