THE KNYVETT CASE.

Auckland Star, Volume XLI, Issue 64, 16 March 1910, Page 8

THE KNYVETT CASE.

(To the Editor.) —The indignation that has been aroused in -the large centres and cities ol the Dominion by the dismissal of Capt. Knyvett from the service is equally shared in the scattered country districts. Indeed, I imay say in general conversation in the country the.Knyvett incident is sure.to be one of the topic 3 discussed and commented upon. Surely if there had been a breach of discipline by Capt. Knyvctt, a reprimand or fine ought to have been sullicient punishment, especially when the officer in question is spoken of so highly in social life, and all admit that he has proved himself an able and efficient officer in South African campaigns. These traits of general good character, I maintain, ought to be considered, even if an error had been made. The fact of so many influential and respectable people taking such a large interest in Capt. Knyvett's case ought surely impress upon the Government the necessity of doing justice and acting promptly in this matter.— am, etc, JOHN CASHED. Pa-pakura Valley. (To the Editor.) Sir,—As a very old volunteer, I have been more than amused at the late socalled trial of Captain Knyvett, but to prevent asking too much space, I will quote from a portion of the evidence. In the first place Captain Knyvett was blessed by having two very intelligent lieutenants, the one a stenographer and the other a lawyer. Now, no properly constituted Court would have prevented Lieut. Pullen (because a lawyer) from assisting his captain in what may bo called a downright persecution, "malgre" prosecution. In the course of the inquiry Captain Knyvett said: "All that I asked the Minister for was an inquiry, well knowing that I can obtain ■from you (the Minister) justice." The President: "Yes, that is what you asked for." Captain Knyvett read the concluding portion of his letter, and said: "I would like to ask, sir, whether you consider that a. respectful letter?" The President: "I cannot say." Captain Knyvett: You have ruled that I had a right to send the letter?" The President: "Yes!" . . . The President:

" You have no right to make a charge against a superior officer!" (and this to a captain of a company*of Artillery Volunteers). Let anyone peruse the pamphlet publishing the whole facts of the Knyvett case, and, by Jupiter! they would say it overrides the. proceedings of a Russian Bureaucracy. . In conclusion I would observe that if volunteering is to be carried on successfully, you" must let the members choose their own officers, men whom they love and follow, and whom they know will lead them aright.— am, etc., KILRY.