Australia

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXI, Issue 14, 15 August 1916, Page 5

Australia

MR HUGHES AT HOME. PLAIN TALK TO AUSTRALIANS.

THERE IS DUTY TO BE DONE.

Press Association-Copyright. (Received 10.40 a.m.) Melbourne, August 15

Speaking at his reception, Mr Hughes said that we have 100,000 troops on the Western front. AI though the Allies’ recent success was a sign that the tide had turned, there was nothing to justify the belief that a decisive victory was at hand. He believed that a decisive victory for the enemy was impossible, but that would not necessarily ensure that victory jwould bo with us. After two years ol pvar, Germany’s great strength was 'not sapped, and the end would jnot be in sight until Germany was 'driven out of France, Belgium, and (Russia. Wo must conquer, yet we cannot prolong the war indefinitely. Germany is bleeding to death, but so are the Allies; and the only way to secure victory is to pour more men into the field. If Germany is not beaten decisively, those responsible for the crimes that have been committed can'not be punished, as outraged civilisation demands. | Mr Hughes concluded: Our duty is clear. Whatever is necessary will be done by the people of Australia. Hi' would do his duty no matter whom he pleased or displeased. i LES DARCEY ENLISTS. ! j Press Association—Copyright. (Received 10.-10 a.m.) Brisbane, August 15. Los Darcy, the boxer, lias enlisted.