King Country Chronicle Saturday, August 15th, 1914. MODERN WAR CONDITIONS

King Country Chronicle, Volume VIII, Issue 694, 15 August 1914, Page 4

King Country Chronicle Saturday, August 15th, 1914. MODERN WAR CONDITIONS

The struggle for supremacy in ', Europe which has at length bten referred to the laßt bitter resort hss stirred the Empire to its depthß. The fine'exhibition of patriotism which is everywhere apparent is not being manifested in any spirit of blatant jingoism. There is an underlying realisation that every unit in the Empire is likely to be called upon to make the utmost sacrifices during the present crisis. The Armageddon of Empire has arrived, and the struggle for national existence ia bound to call for all that is best and noblest in the national life of the countries involved. The youth and energy of every portion of our Empire is gladly being offered to swell the ranks of those called upon to rueet the legions of the autocratic group which threaten the national existence. That ihe campaign will be fought tu a finish cannot be doubted, and with a grim realisation of all that depends upon the issue the struggle will be to the death, We are confronted for the first time in history with the conditions pertaining to a great modern war, and no effort must be spared to play our part in the manner consistent with the highest and best traditions of those who live under the flag which floats over every sea. The offerings of men and money, which cama pouring in at the firat trumpet call, indicate the spirit of the country, and the efforts which will require to be made in future will doubtless be made to the utmost. There is no doubt that in the event of a protracted struggle the production of foodstuffs in the outlyin portions of the Empire ia of the highest importance, and by increasing their efforts in suitable directions our farmers can render immense service to the Empire. Britain must be fed, and the shortage in all the countries engaged in the war must be made good. Conditions as to commerce and finance, which had come to be regarded as fixed and immutable as Nature's laws have been suspended, and there is every indication that the moral strength of the individual, as of the nation, will bo tested to the utmost. By working loyally and heartily to provide for the common needs those who remain at home are rendering the beat posBile Bervico to their country antf to the nation. This ib no war in which the commercial instinct should play a part; in which the individual should seek for advantage. It is a time for co operation,'and the welding together of all our national customs and institutions, commercial and social,

for thu purpose of preaerving the national integrity and maintaining the position of th« Empire among the foremost powers of the univer.se.