NEED OF MEN.

Evening Post, Volume XCI, Issue 93, 19 April 1916, Page 6

NEED OF MEN.

While some men are going to the front, others may not bother to go to a public meeting, convened to enable men to give proof of "practical patriotism." This evening sixteen meetings will be held in sixteen schoolrooms in and about Wellington city. Will the average attendance at. each be about sixteen persons'? Are the jpeaker& to face a few entkuiijßti

and many empty benches? This evening will bring a special opportunity for the National Reserve to help in filling the rooms with folk who will not be afraid to show vitality, virility, willingness to serve in some useful capacity, either here or overseas. Of course, it is hoped to have many eligibles within earshot of the recruiting speakers, but it is desirable to have others as well, for the subject of canvassing and other matters in regard to enlistments will bo discussed. The Minister of Defence said lately that Wellington (formerly holding the lead, splendidly) had begun to lag behind the sister cities. Well, this evening the citizens should demonstrate that Wellington is determined to be in step, abreast of the others, if not ahead. Every room should be crowded to-night; the moral effect of big attendances will be good for recruiting. Large assemblies on such occasions mean that the public is awake and earnest; thus the air becomes galvanised, and eligibles may be electrified. After all, it is well to remember that men who have marched k> the trenches have gone to infinitely more trouble and discomfort than the slight inconvenience that some persons may have to bear by stepping out to a public meeting.