LURE OF THE KILT

Evening Star, Issue 23143, 17 December 1938, Page 3

LURE OF THE KILT

The New Zealand decision to raise a Highland battalion to bring up its Territorial Army to full strength is a generous tribute to the garb of Gaeldom (says the ‘ Weekly Scotsman ’ editorially), and to the value of an attractive outfit in making an appeal for recruits. There is an air of brightness and smartness in the Highland garb that, however much comedians may be prone to skit at it, carries with it a sense of liberation from tho drab monotony of ordinary life, and it can readily be understood that the Highland regiments, as tho brightest and most distinctively dressed units in the Army, mako an especial appeal to the man in the street. The kilt gives distinction even in civilian life, and the revival of the ancient dress for ceremonial occasions is the most notable evidence of a growing sense of national pride. It takes a good physical frame to carry with dignity a dress that calls attention to its wearer; and that fact alone is a proof that the New Zealand authorities are out.to enlist men of exceptional physique.