SAVING THE NATION

Wairarapa Times-Age, 1 October 1938, Page 7

SAVING THE NATION

DECLARATION BY CZECH PREMIER GREAT SACRIFICE PREFERRED TO USELESS FIGHT. APPEAL FOR CONTINUED UNITY. (Received This Day, 11.10 a.m.) PRAGUE. September 30. The Premier (General Sirovy) broadcasting, said: “This is the most difficult moment of my life. I have taken a decision to save life and also to save the nation. Superior force has compelled us to accept. My duty was to consider everything. As a soldier, I had to choose the way to peace. Our nation will be stronger and more united. ' We have chosen the only right course.” “The four Powers decided to ask from us the abdication of the German territories. We had to choose between a useless fight and sacrifices. We have accepted unheard of sacrifices. We have to choose between the death of the nation and the abdication of some of our territories. The main thing is that we are remaining ourselves. We must be united. I appeal to the people to maintain confidence in their leaders. Our main concern must be to rebuild the State.” General Kegci (Commander-in-Chief) followed General Sirovy. calling on the Army to remain steadfast in face of Western Europe’s categorical demand for sacrifices. Labour leaders then appealed for loyalty to the unions. The Czechs military authorities have taken full control of the railways.