One of Our Heroes
Maoriland Worker, Volume 5, Issue 186, 26 August 1914, Page 8
About this newspaper
One of Our Heroes
By FRED COOKE
John P. Fletcher left Christchurch last week on his way to Australia. For the present his work in the cause of anti-militarism is prevented because the dogs of war are let loose, and" the world has to pay the blood penalty Britain has left her affairs in the hands of the disciples of force, who have made secret treaties which tho public press claims justifies the call for sacrifice of our sons to the great god "Patriotism." Comrade Fletcher came amongst us at an opportune time. AYe had been worsted in a free-speech fight at the Clock Tower, and were in a retreating state. Our comrade took up the work in a quiet, unassuming manner, and soon showed us what he was capable of doing. He held meetings for the Peace Council in Sydenham against strong opposition, including the police authorities, and was sent to His Majesty's jail for the heinous crime of obstruction. When he was released, he again hold his meetings, and finally won the place again for free speech. Our comrade held meetings in Cathedral Square every Saturday evening when in town. These gatherings were so effective that the exponents of militarism determined to break them up and paid him the high compliment of howling him down because they had no other argument. They paid him another compliment by pushing him off the platform because he succeeded in overcoming their tactics. In spite of all these attempts to prevent his noble work, he managed to carry it through until the wo (Id becamo engaged in war, and we hope the next few months will see the seed ho has helped to sow germinate, and, wlic-u tho war lovers are satiated, the signs of fruit blossom forth. 1 am a humble student of mankind, and study the lines of faces, and observe little actions that tell mc much. The sound of a voice is also a guide to character. Carlyle, when ho writes of the time ho was fortunate enough lo hear Teufeldroch's laughter got an inkling of tho great depth of his hero. I have heard Comrade Fletcher laugh, and havo thus gauged his depth. I luive seen him ignored and rebuffed I havo been shamed by him many times when I have taken part in some the humble work, but Comrade Fletcher ha* said: "Come on, Fred, we'll do it, thore'-svno other ready, and it is very important." Knowing bis worth, who could resist him? Every characteristic of John P. spells nobility, honesty, generosity, and comradeship. AAV have mot and known him and have benefited thereby. Slay we bo fortunate enough to rub shoulders with him ngain.
