Compulsory Training.

Maoriland Worker, Volume 2, Issue 20, 21 July 1911, Page 7

Compulsory Training.

■ * ! Scene: Lambton Quay Police Court. Magistrate, Barristers, Soldiers, Clerks, Pressmen and general onlookers. Mr O'Hegan: With due respect to the Court, the prisoner declines the socalled honour of serving in the ranks of the army under this scheme on principle. His father .backs him up in this matter, and we ask in the name of British Justice that he should be allowed the privilege of exercising his own discretion in the matter, etc. Magistrate: I can't have a word against this scheme. It is the duty of every poor man to lay down his life if necessary for his richer brother. The prisoner must undergo the training to nt him to protect tne lives and property of his wealthy brother. Our much glorified brother, Sir Joseph, has decreed it so. If the prisoner still declines I fine him £4 10s or 21 days in prison. 21 DAYS. British Justice! Is there such? Does not look it, over much. Because a man declines to fight For a class which binds him tight As a slave from morn to night For just a pittance—is this right? They now demand his freedom too. To learn to fight and dare to do Heroic feats, not for mc or you, But all for them; their greed's not now. Workers, fair to every man, Always ready to make a stand And fight as Britons did of old For causes true have ventured bold; But this is altered now, amy la/d. At one time Britons were always glad. To fight the cause of right; But this is changed, use your sight, Think how of late they've used their might To kill your fellow man; Prepare, young man, amend your ways, The alternative —21 days!