CHRISTMAS GREETINGS.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XLI, Issue 11418, 22 December 1917, Page 5

CHRISTMAS GREETINGS.

NEW ZEALAND’S MESSAGE TO HER BOYS. AND THEIR SPLENDID .REPLIES. (Per Press Association.) Wellington, Dec. 21. The Minister of Defence has forwarded a Christmas message to the New Zealand troops on all the fronts where they are serving, and to those in England and Samoa. Copies are, to be forwarded to the various church organisations of the Dominion, asking their assistance to bring the message to the notice of the public, in order that as many people as possible may join in prayer at 8 o’clock on hri'stmas morning. The message is as follows: “Greetings to nil members of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, find the Army Nursing Service. The time has come for another Christmas message to go forth from New Zealand to those who are upholding her-honour on laud and sea. Again we ask you to join with us, at 8 o’clock on Christmas morning, in prayer for protection and continued success. Heavy ns the burden lies been, and he.vy as it yet may be, we re-assert at this Christmas-time our unshaken faith in the righteousness of our cause, and your ability, under God, to do your country’s part to vindicate that cause. It is therefore with stout hearts and undimmed pride that wo bid you be of good cheer, trusting that next Christmas once more the Divine message may ring out over the world —“Peace on earth, goodwill towards men. ’’

J. ALLEN, Minister of Defence.

On behalf of the New Zealand troops in France, General Godley sent the following reply:— “Four insjuriug message has been communicated to «li the New Zealand troops in Franco and England, and I wish to thank you on their behalf. Our thoughts will be especially with you at 8 .oclock on Christmas morning. During the past year the Direction and pride with which New Zealanders regard their native laud has stimulated them to do her credit, whether serving on the historic battleground of Flanders, or in the hallowed approach to the Holy City, in the light for the freedom of nations and the continuance of democratic ideals. No soldiers have done hotter service for King and country than they. They have been deeply touched by the thoughtful kindness of the people of New Zealand, who have maintained an unfailing supply of gifts in kind and money, and the continued stream of reinforcements is an earnest wish that those at home will give them support until tlie end. We trust that those who have lost tlmir dearest and best may be sustained in their sorrow by thoughts of the valour olid uncomplaining endurance of those who, for a glorious and righteous cause, have laid down their lives. —(Signed), Godley.” Major-Gener TE. W. O. Chaytor replied from Palestine ;

“All the New Zealanders here deeply appreciate your Christmas message from the people of New Zealand, and which helps us to face the coming year with renewed courage We will join with you on Christmas morning in prayer that God will crown our cause with success before another Christmas comes. (Signed) Chaytor.”