AMERICA.

Taihape Daily Times, 6 December 1917, Page 5

AMERICA.

WILSON APPEALS FOR WAR WITH AUSTRIA.

WASHINGTON, Dec. 4

President Wilson, addressing packed galleries amidst the most impressive scene since the declaration of war, asked that the war be made on 'Austria in order to remove "an embarrassing obstacle from our path,’’ America was not willing to discuss peace until Germany produced a spokesman whose word was reliable. The United States did not intend interference with Germany's internal affairs, but peace must be decided by a partnership of peoples, not merely by a partnership of Governments.

Congress is to take immediate action to declare war on Austria, Congressmen overwhelmingly approved of the speech, which is regarded as a brilliant exposition of war purposes and filled with the spirit of democracy Newspaper comments so far are unanimously favourable.

.AMERICAN PRESS OPINION. REMARKABLE UNANIMITY OF APPROVAL Received 9.5. NEW YORK, Dec 5. The New York Times says: “President Wilson’s address was inspiring, and sheds the light of tfuth and reason on our path. It assures Allies of America’s unwavering support. We assume it does not mean that America will oppose peaceable plans for the rearrangement of the Austrian Empire.” The Sun observes there has been a remarkable evolution in President Wilson since December 20th, 1916, when he said belligerents’ objects were the same. The World declares the speech is intended particularly to impress the Russians. The Tribune remarks: “There will be a vast territorial reconstruction if Germany wins. Why announce that the Allies do not contemplate reconstruction? Let us keep our peace conference powder dry.” Newspapers throughout the country hail the message as a great speech and another wmdge between the German Government and the people.

UNNATURALISED ALIENS. Received 8.45. NEW YORK, Doe. 5. It is estimated now that half a-mil-lion unnaturalised Austrians are in the United States. WHEAT SUPPLY. Received 8.45. CHICAGO, December 5 The visible wheat supply is 26,206,000 bushels.