NEED FOR VOLUNTEERS.

Taihape Daily Times, Volume 7, Issue 222, 8 June 1915, Page 5

NEED FOR VOLUNTEERS.

t jjfe (To the Editor). | , ; Sir—Some days ago, with pleasure, I read a very ably written article in your paper on the subject of yolun-" teering, for the present war. Though, very much to the point, I w;ould, with all respect, suggest, that your diction was somewjhat mild, - considering the conditions. We are all well awar e that those volunteering, so far, have been a fair representation of the various districts. But, it is simply lamentable to look around, and see the number of young men who can only properly be put into the category of cowards or skulkers. They may plead that they are quite ready and willing to volunteer, but that their fathers require tjheir services on the farm. Be that as it may, th» young men I have in my mind are of age, having full legal control of their actions. On the other hand, the said fathers, if they had any mind outside of self, should know very well that it would be far more to their worldly interests to let the farm go back for a year or two, than allow it to become the property of an alien. But are these fathers devoid of any loyal feeling towards their empire and fellow men? Many of them are heard to speak of the weak-kneed policy, and actions of the American Government. Does* J their conduct not run on all fours with that of the United States? Self and the almighty dollar right through. Shame on you, say all honest and honorable men. It surpases the comprehension of all thoughtful men, that there can be found women and girls who tolerate the company or companionship of any eligible man that has not offered his services in defence of the Empire. Have many of our women folk degenerated in their loyalty to country as "have so many of th e young men? Shame again! I say. It might astonish these same young (I can't call them men) if they knew, the number of their elders, who eagerly came forward and offered their serTices, >at t,he commencement of the war. Be men and do your duty as men, and giv e your country and, fellows an opportunity to admire your pluck.—l am, etc., GOBEMOUCHE.