"THANKS, OLD MAN, THANKS."

Auckland Star, Volume XXX, Issue 275, 20 November 1899, Page 5

"THANKS, OLD MAN, THANKS."

Commenting on the offers of assistance made by the colonies during the present crisis, the "St. James' Gazette" gives voice to the sentiments of the great bulk of the British nation. We, of the unofficial classes, recognize that the Boer contract is not, or should not be, one that will strain England's military power to any extent, but Aye arc grateful to our kin across the sea for showing themselves ready to share the burden of Empire, and it is our desire that those who are in hi^-h places shou'd reflect this gratitude. The "St. J^iiies' " puts the feeling very clearly thus:—

"These colonial troops should be accepted here with all the enthusiasm which has prompted their offer overseas. Not only will they be a valuable adjunct to our forces at the present, but the experience they Avill gain must prove of the most vital value in those portions of the Empire Avhich it is, their special privilege to defend. Sentimental reasons in this matter are too often put wilfully into the background; yet, in fact, they are strongest of all. Our welcome to these recruits of our own blood and race should not merely be formal and military; it should 'be national and sincerely heartfelt. Their services should not merely be rewarded at the end of the campaign with medals and mere oblivion. If "they fight side by side Avith us in the war to which the.South African Republic has challenged, us, they must receive with our troops the home-coming that pays for all, the greeting that is more than mere money,"the hand-clasp that is more than 'official recognition. Then they Avill take with them what is of e\*en more value than practical experience, for they will have felt that Aye recognise in England that bond between the outlands of the Empire which avc have left too much hitherto to the enthu. iasm.of our colonies. They love their Mother Country and they show it. far more than avc have yet permitted to our oavii more sloav susceptibilities. 'The. duty is laid upon us to be as openly loyal to every "one of them as they have shown themselves ready to be 'to us. Here is one more opportunity. . It must not be lost again."