AMERICA AND THE WAR.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 5, Issue 207, 8 September 1916, Page 3 (Supplement)

AMERICA AND THE WAR.

«»v BIG REPUBLIC'S ATTITUDE TOWARDS ALLIES. Wilson R. Gay, attorney-at-law, Is one of the foremost representative citizens of Seattle, U.S.A. Writing under date July 29th to Dr. Linda Burfleld Hazzard, now of Wanganul, he has something of interest to say concerning America's attitude towards the war. Dear Dr. Hazzard, —This morning's mail brings me the letter which you wrote me on July 4th. It is the only | letter I have received, and I guess you are mistaken in thinking you had written me another. The letter finds me in the best of health, and I know of no situation in Seattle that has changed or altered that would be of material interest to mention in a letter. I am indeed very glad that you are so well satisfied in a country that is new to you but where you have so readily found good friends. Your splendid abilities and experience are a foundation upon which you may build for permanent success. Regarding the sentiments of criticism which you say are entertained by some of the New Zealand people toward ain erica re hi e ting he attitude in the great war, I might remark that America has occupied a difficult situation. The war came upon us suddenly and our people had always been extremely friendly with Germany and especially the German people, whom she had learned to respect very much. Someway in the beginning, we could not believe the war would last. The quarrel was not primarily that of America, and our duty was to be neutral. However, very early our people generally formed an opinion that it was best for the future generations—for civilisation itself —that the Allies should prevail in the conflict. Notwithstanding that sentiment, it was the duty of cur nation to maintain as best it could the spirit of neutrality, although when history comes to be written it will be discovered that we were really, after all, the granary—the base of supplies of England and France and Russia in this great conflict; and I am quite convinced the calm after-Judgment of the English people will be one of great love and affection for America for our assistance in this time of great trial and difficulty. You have now, as alwayi my kindest regards and that, of hosts of admiring and true friends. I am, with kindest regards, sincerely your friend, WILSON R. GAY.