HOW RICH MEN MAY SERVE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXVII, Issue 1435, 12 August 1915, Page 2

HOW RICH MEN MAY SERVE.

Ouk Wellington evening contemporary puts forth an excellent suggestion as to how the rich men may serve the Kmpire in the present struggle. The I’pst sa>s : “Sons of some of New Zealand’s wealthy men are fighting in Gallipoli ; some of the rich have given largely in money and material to various funds ; some have contributed only a small fraction of a fair share towards the cost of protecting their own property. Of course, the screw of taxation should succeed presently where appeals to reason and to the heart have failed. While the wealthy are waiting for the taxation proposals, which are not to he unduly oppressive on any class (according to Ministerial promise), they have an opportunity to fight, by deputy, in Gallipoli. Certain young men, whose circumstances in regard to dependents prevent them from enlisting at present, would register at once if their anxiety on that score was relieved. Here is an opening for rich folk, not physically fit for service abroad. This is not an innovation in Britain’s history. Men of means have equipped less fortunate compatriots tor warfare within the bounds of Britain and beyond. The wealthy who are able to undertake this service for the Kmpire can easily guard against imposition. The arrangement for their worthy representation at the front can be done with suitable men, personally known to them. They are not asked to assume a large liability. They will satisfy the aspiring soldiers if they guarantee the premiums on insurance, which is at a comparatively heavy rale for a war risk. This is not an inordinate request to put to rich people in these times, which call for great sacrifice, even to life itself, from many New Zealanders.”