Oar Members and the Tenth Contingent.

Southland Times, Issue 15186, 17 March 1902, Page 3

Oar Members and the Tenth Contingent.

t TO THE EDITOR. j SIR,— I have just seen this evening's News and, if not surprised, am, to aay the least, thoroughly mortified at the reply sent j by the members for Wallace and Invercar--1 gill to the Premier's enquiry as to their views on the sending of a tenth contingent to Somth Africa. Fancy the tone of the following, emanating from two men, and holding the representative positions these do : — " Will give us a stronger claim on the War Office and Imperial authorities to give preference to our meat and grain products in South Africa." Can anyone conceive of such utter rot as this patriotism, prompted' by the hope of such sordid gain as that desired by these two gentlemen? What inconsistency to cry themselves hoarse about the call of duty, about fighting for the dear ! Home-land, for freedom and the grand old flag, and at the same time to harbour such ! thoughts as to how thej' may beat barter their loyalty for a share of the army contracts. I feel strongly that the sentiments expressed in this message are an insult to New Zealand, and will be viewed with indignation wherever read in the colony. Surely it is incumbent on us to have a public meeting and, for our honour's sake^ openly protest against such sentiments as representing the feelings of the people of Southland, who have freely given of their best in the cause, and 1 should blush to think from any mercenary motive. Your own pen will, I feel sure, take this matter up, meantime I desire to enter my protest along with the many you are sure to receive before we see this thing through. —I am, &c, Citizen. Invercargill, 15th March.