"DRINK THE CAUSE."

Auckland Star, Volume XXXIII, Issue 84, 10 April 1902, Page 2

"DRINK THE CAUSE."

(To the Editor.)

Sir,--So ran last night's cable, and from' the accounts published drink played an important part m the perpetration of those tragedies, for which the officers werei shot in South Africa. "Drink," so our best generals say, "is the worst enemy our .b.r&VB soldiers have to fear." It this

be so,"have -we helped our boys to fight this foe or have we been, traitors and helped the foe? Have those in authority been responsible for any of the inroads made by the soldiers' common enemy? I think so. Without referring to the disgraceful departure of the last Commonwealth Contingent, how about our own boys? Not on our brave lads does the blame rest, but on those in authority, who, by the facilities they have given to indulge in liquor, such as canteens, free gifts of liquor, drink at the send-off, treating, etc! countenancing and encouraging drinking- habits, instead of helping our boys in their battles. Mr Hutchinson's (S.M.) remarks, and some of the scenes in connection with the despatch of the Ninth, should fill those responsible with a sense of shame. One of the worst features is that the appetite for drink will be created, and so be a bane for the rest of their lives. Among soldiers and civilians the drink trade is doing its deadly work, and on the ruined homes and lives of thousands these tragic words may be written, Caused by drink." May every elector this year face their responsibility and vote straight for God, home and humanity.—l am, etc., AVnFR A YOUNG.AbCKLANDEK.