OTHER PEOPLE’S IDEAS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 15 August 1941, Page 6

OTHER PEOPLE’S IDEAS

DUTY OF TEACHER (To the Editor.) Sir, —Under the above heading in today's issue of the Wairarapa “TimesAge” appeared a report on my appeal against military service. In this respect I should like to make a few corrections. To "stand aside’ when the children of a class are being threatened, as I was reported to have said, is, in my opinion utterly wrong and unChristian. When I was asked what I would do, my reply was to have been: “I would assist to the best of my ability without destroying life.” When I had reached the word “without,” I was interrupted by Mr Bell. Had I been allowed to continue to the end of the sentence my attitude would have been completely clear. During the appeal 1 was again asked whether I would not take any steps to protect the children if they were being threatened by somebody who entered the classroom. To this I replied, “Yes, certainly, I would.” 1 would protect them with all my strength and power, but I think I could do that quite effectively without destroying anybody’s life. It is destruction of human life to which I am opposed. I think the parents realise that their children would be ably , protected at all times and I should like the public to know it too. —I am, etc., LEONARD M. KING. Mauriceville West, August 13.