NATIONAL ORGANISATION

New Zealand Times, Volume XLI, Issue 9257, 26 January 1916, Page 2

NATIONAL ORGANISATION

IB tho Editor "N.Z. Times." Sir,—-When, in Dunedin the other day I saw and was" permitted to copy an inspiring telegram from Mr P. R. Sargood to the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce. I think this telegram coming as it .does from the head of a great business concern, should receive the widest possible publicity and the greatest possible emphasis. I have accordingly extended it at the loot of this letter. It does appear to me that Mr Sargood has stated, not merely ideal conditions, but conditions that must be approximated if' we are to win out in this war. It is obvious, (however, that the conditions can be imposed only by the Government, and then only after the people have signified their willingness to unite in obedience. In support, let me quote from a letter written by Mr F. Milner, the rector of Waitaki High School;— “Knowing what I do of Germany’s unrivalled military strength, superb organising power and intense national con-, centratian of all her energies,' I do not see how our E’mpiro can. force her to "accept the terms we must dictate unless the whole resources of our _ Empire are similarly organised and unified for the purpose of mis great campaign.”—l am, etc.* H. C. ROBINSON. Masterton. January 24th. Copy of telegram received by Dunedin Chamber of Commerce on November Bth, 1915, from Mr P. R. Sargood, the occasion bedmr a meeting called by tho Dunedin Chamber to discuss the question of organisation of the national resources for the war" Regret unable attend mooting. Following ari my opinions asked for: When in August. 1914. I offered the Government personal service and the free ose of my company’s organisation, I voiced my conviction that is since strengthened that to win the war all Che mental, physical and material assets of individuals should be made equally available for national service in our national danger, either voluntarily or compulsorily. I farther believe that all excess incomes over the average for, say, three years prior to the war should, bo treated as war profits, And taxed accordingly ae such. Further, that our entire manhood should enlist for national service to defend the sanctity of our womanhood and home life, to maintain our racial freedom and the sacred foundations of our national being, I would' also organise the women. —P. B. Bargood.”