DISTRESS IN FRANCE.

Taranaki Daily News, 4 December 1920, Page 5

DISTRESS IN FRANCE.

iiLSERY IN WRECKED VILLAGE, j APPEAL TO NEW ZEALAND, By Telegraph.—Press Association. Wellington, Last Night. The Mayor of Wellington has received an appeal from the village of Le Maisnil Fournes, in the north of France, for aid in re-establishing the village* which wa* taken and re-taken by New Zealand troops with great courage. The appeal adds: "Perhaps Wellington or some other New Zealand city might wish to adopt Le Maisnil in memory ol tlie many sons of New Zealand who died there for the liberty of the world. If, therefore, my dear Mayor, you could send us some help we would be for ever grateful, and a great bond of friendship would be established between us. The war has quite ruined us, There is not a single house upstanding, neither church nor school, and nothing remains. We are living in rude wooden shelters, small 'and miserably cold. It is only on account of our extreme distress and in memory of many New Zealanders buried here that we dare to implore your commiserating help. Accept, Mr. Mayor, assurances of our grateful thanks and highest respects. (Signed) Leon Despierre, Mayor; Paul Fuissin, pastor." Mr. Luke stated to-day that before making an appeal to the public he would have full inquiries made through the Government as to the, position of Le Maisnil.