INSTRUCTIONS TO SPIES.

Taihape Daily Times, 9 July 1918, Page 7

INSTRUCTIONS TO SPIES.

Some of the characteristic instructions issued to the German espionage service have come to light in Norway during the trial of a Hun spy named Paashe. The principal features of these instructions, copies of which were found in Paasche’s luggage, were as follows: “The best means of obtaining information of ship movements in belligerent countries is through captains of vessels. Captains have more freedom of action in ports and are less likely to be suspected. As a rule, they do not care about taking on our work on account of the risks they run because they are sufficiently paid. This, however, is not the case with the young mates, who, as experience has proved, are very ready to undertake information work.” After this there followed, with typical Prussian thoroughness, an exacr schedule of fees which may be pm,: for individual items of information or as a monthly retaining fee! The instructions continue: A great deal of interesting information may be obtained through innocent conversation with soldiers or sailors just arrived from a long voyage. Being tired, and happy at having reached their journey’s end, they are very loquacious. Useful information can also be obtained through barbers, waiters, and in England from nurses. Owing to the difficulty of getting suitable men, women must be employed. This has an advantage In that the woman who remains for a lengthy period in one place is not liable to attract the same attention as a man. Commercial travellers are likewise a very useful source of information, but it is necessary that their business should be bona fide, otherwise they would be liable to suspicion and be easily found out.”