CANDID AMERICAN

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24633, 14 June 1941, Page 14

CANDID AMERICAN

Is the best we Americans can give to small unfortunate nations extravagant praise and moral encouragement? asked a correspondent writing to an American newspaper. Isn't it about time we talked less loudly and quietly and earnestly got down to serious business and as swiftly as possible made the United Slates the actual and working arsenal of democracy, so as to be ready to assume the responsibility of the generous words and promises which we have thrown so lavishly at one tragically helpless country after anather? Talking has not done much good so far, - and promises and praise have not saved those countries from tragedy. There is not much time left, fnd we still have Britain and China valiantly holding their own against the foes of democracy. But they, too. cannot stand up for ever on the strength of words of endearment and encouragement. They need help, vital help, sufficient help, and they need it desperately, now. Before it is too late, let us manifest the greatness of America, unselfishly, courageously, and generously.