THE KNYVETT CASE.

Dominion, Volume 3, Issue 858, 2 July 1910, Page 6

THE KNYVETT CASE.

Sir, —"We have recently had a visit from members of the Knyvett Defence Committee, who addressed a public meeting at which about two hundred peoplo were present, tho poor attendance being put down to unfavorable weather. Now, sir, when Wanganui peoplo take an interest in any subject, a little rain will not prevent them.roll- 1 ing up in hundreds, so tho poor attendance must be put down to lack of interest. Mr. Peacock in his remarks endeavoured to show that this Knyvett case was of Dominion importance, but I think failed in his efforts, for the whole matter is, after all, only a private quarrel between Captain Knyvett and Colonel Robin ._ TCput thc most favourable construction-on' Captain Knyvett's conduct, it must".be admitted that he was indiscreet, and' 'the officer so offending must pay the penalty for indiscretion. Two noted cases occur to me, thoso'of General Buller and Lord Charles Beresford. No finer' men. ever donned their sovereign's uniform, but .their indiscretions brought about their retirement. Firm discipline must be maintained at all costs, otherwise we shall be courting disaster. The visiting delegates calmly ignore the sequel to 1 this caso; tho mutinous conduct of Captain Knyvett' s company in throwing down their anns. Mr. Peacock, in his remarks seemed more anxious to belittle the Court that tried Captain Knyvett than: to. defend the ■''captain. His reference to Captain Sandemann was most unjust. As for the remarks made by Mr. A. J. Black, I think most peoplo will treat them with the contempt they deserve. Even Mr. Peaoocke has had to decline any responsibility' for Mr. Black's utterances. You are at perfect liberty to .supply my name to Mr. Peacocke if -he so desires it.—l am, etc., DEMOS. Wanganui, June 23.