RESPECT THE KING'S UNIFORM.

Taranaki Daily News, 26 October 1917, Page 3

RESPECT THE KING'S UNIFORM.

To the Editor. . Sir, —While passing along Devon street on Saturday last, I saw a soldier in uniform present a Red Cross collecting box to a New Plymouth tradesman, and after some words had passed between them the soldier, a little fellow and apparently more or less of an invalid, drew off and gave the civilian two hearty blows. 1 was not near enough to hear the conversation, but the action of the man in khaki evidently met with the full approval of those who were in the immediate vicinity, and it was apparent that provocation had been given. It seems to me a great pity that in a community like New Plymouth, where so many willing workers, particularly of the fair sex, are to be found, it sjlould be considered desirable to enlist the help of those who have "fought the good light" to raise funds for any war purpose. The collecting of money should be kept entirely in the hands of those who are unable, through age, sex, or otherwise, to take the field against the enemy and our heroes who have already done their part in more strenuous scenes ought/ t 0 be shielded from the risk of such indignities as occasionally uefall even the most tactful solicitor of mite 3. Nor is it right to put the King's uniform to such use. All honor to the organisers of Saturday's effort and I trust they will pardon a sincere sympathiser for venturing to criticise an error of judgment—l am, etc., LOYAL COUNTRYMAN.