LESSONS OF HISTORY

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 648, 27 April 1929, Page 20

LESSONS OF HISTORY

WHEN TREATIES BECOME SCRAPS OF PAPER NAVY LEAGUE REPORT “Remember that history teaches us that when the passions of a nation, the lust for world power, or the necessities of existence, become paramount, conventions disappear, treaties become scraps of paper, and victory is deemed to justify the breaking of any and of every rule.” Thus runs a passage in the annual report of the Auckland branch of the Navy League, to be presented at the annual meeting of the league on Monday evening. “During the year we have read of various pacts and conferences, and have heard much about ‘the outlawry of war’,” the report continues. “It is significant to note that various of those who talk most and loudest about peace and the limitations of navies are building many ships, and increasing their own military and naval votes. Recently the I’m Alone case showed how suddenly some minor incident may set alight the passions of a nation. There has been no change in human nature.” ’ A year of continued activity and progress is recorded. Educative, charitable. and social activities have been carried out. although work among junior members suffered through the death of Mr. William Cook, late honorary secretary. The Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve would shortly vacate the league’s rooms for its new premises on the waterfront, and although this would mean a financial loss to the league, it was gratifying to know that the reserve movement was growing. The executive »iad done much during the year to relieve want among the families of distressed seamen. Much work had been carried out in entertaining sailors and in providing clothes and other articles for those in need. The financial statement shows bank accounts totalling £859. Expenditure for the year amounted to £503, which was £25 in excess of receipts. Tlio following officers will be elected for the ensuing year at the annual meeting, nominations in each case being of the required number: Patron, Mr. John Alexander president, Mr. C. H. T. Palmer; chairman. Mi*. W. J. Co nnors; hon. treasurer, Mr. g. Leah; lion, atiditor. Mr. A. M. Seaman: executive committee, Mrs. E. A. Gallaugher: Mrs. M. M. Ifwersen, Miss E. G. Wallace, Mrs. J. H. F. Glasgow, Mrs. A. Cleland, Mrs. I. M. Streater, Mrs. A. B. Mackay, Miss E. M. Statham, Miss FI. M. Herrold, Miss E. Brown, Mrs. A. V. Penn. Miss A. Basten, Messrs. W. J. Crowther, S. A. Burt. 11. Goldie, W. J. Connors, G. F. Henry, F. S. T. Little, B. W. Beaumont, H. ICeary, C. A. Whitney, and the Rev. C. L. Tuke.