THE GAUDIN CASE.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 4, Issue 6, 22 January 1915, Page 4

THE GAUDIN CASE.

The handful of Auckland people, who, —" in the name of the citizens of Auckland "—have demanded that the sentence passed upon F. Q-audin for war-treason by the Military Court at Samoa should be reviewed and the prisoner released may feel thankful that their protege did not reside in the British Isles, or he might have butted up against a life sentence instead of the comparatively mild one of five years only. The London "Times" contains in its issue of December Ist the Order-in-Council making general regulations conferring additional powers upon naval and military authorities. These provide penalties for failing to extinguish lights when directed, for not remaining within doors when ordered to do so, for possessing wireless apparatus or carrier pigeons without licence, etc. To attempt to elicit information that may be useful to the enemy by giving or selling intoxicants to any sailor or soldier, or " to act in any way that may be deemed likely to be prejudicial to the public safety "renders a person liable to summary arrest without a warrant. THE DEATH PENALTY.

It is further decreed by the Order that a person charged with any of the above offences may be tried either before a Court Martial or a Court of Summary Jurisdiction. If found guilty he shall be liable to penal servitude for life—" or any less punishment, but if the Uourt finds the offence was committed with the intention of assisting the enemy, to suffer death, or any le3S punishment,"