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Hokitika Guardian, 24 December 1917, Page 2

It was pleasing to glean on Saturday that the enemy escapees from Auckland harbor had been re-taken and wore enrouto again for durance vile. Hie experience won by the authorities over this event should have far-reach-ing effect. New Zealand should no longer play the fool in regard to enemy subjects it is deemed necessary to intern. If there iss a reason for internment, the confinement should be more realistic than pleasurable picnic conditions. Culpable prisoners like those who had been enjoyed an apparently acts of piracy on the high seas should be treated under a more severe code still. There are harrowing tales extant of how Allied prisoners of war are treated by the enemy, and it is time Britain ceased to be namby pamby, and remembered that the nation is engaged in a war for national existence. The New Zealand experience should indicate that if it is to cost more to keep an armed guard over the treacherous and dangerous prisoners of war, there can he a saving in the- lavish methods of entertaining these gentry, and efficiency can be secured without undue expense. It is well the men have been so quickly captured. New Zealand out a very foolish attitude over the episode, and Hie lessons to be learned from the occasion are manv and should be profitable.

This is the season of the year essentially devoted to the children. The whole atmosphere of Christmas is the warmer because of the juvenile interest in the celebrations. Parents and Guardians alike take a pleasure in' pleasing their young folk, and in pro- j viding some special form of entertain- ‘ ment to mark the occasion. The icihildr?n’s wants are very much in mind. It is, therefore, a very happy thought on the part of those who are giving some practical consideration for the young folk of those on active service to-day. Locally, the Overseas Clul, is revsponsible for Santa Claus gifts to tjhe kons and -daughters, brothers and sisters of those on active service. ’ and the deed of recognition is entirely in keeping with the true spirit of Christmas. The Overseas Club'’ as a supplemental’' organisation of Empire aims, is doing a special service in a patriotic way in many directions, but speedily is the effort commendable for the particular care of the men’at the front, and for the kindly thought now for the young folk left behind. The service carries with it instant reward, the pleasure of performing some kindly attention to those who are doing so much for the common weal. Tn the same spirit the Club is asking locally now for special support to the Tobacco Fimd. Readers of our last issue would be struck by the acknowledgements published from the men at the Front who had participated in the Overseas Smoko Gifts. Those words of thanks warrant the local efforts being not only continued, hut really redoubled.