MR. HOLLAND’S PAMPHLET.

Southland Times, Issue 20446, 26 March 1928, Page 3

MR. HOLLAND’S PAMPHLET.

To the Editor. Sir, —It is not our purpose to controvert the matter of your leader of the 17th inst. referring to Mr. H. E. Holland’s last pamphlet on Samoa. The mesage from Samoa did not accuse Mr. Holland of being involved in the distribution of his pamphlet in Western Samoa. At the same time we must recognize that the author of this pamphlet has plainly indicated that it was intended as an appeal to the Samoan natives. In replying to the message from Samoa, Mr. Holland says “The last page of the pamphlet contains an appeal to the Samoans to refrain from methods of violence.” Nothing in the last page directly appeals to the Samoans and if it is to be read in that way then the whole pamphlet must be regarded as an appeal in the same direction. On page 2 of the pamphlet he refers to part of a speech by Sir Maui Pomare which might be used to etir up feelings of antagon--1 ism to New Zealand in the hearts of the Samoans, and he passes over in silence the part of the same speech wherein Sir Maui Pomare gives full credit to the great work done by the New Zealand Administration from which the Samoans have richly benefited. That is the cunningly suggestive appeal which has stimulated disaffection in Samoa and for its circulation Mr. Holland is certainly responsible. Much of the pamphlet referred to is an attempt to influence by telling half truths, a very old trick. It is a dangerous proceeding when the appeal is to a native race such as the Samoans.—We are, etc., N.Z. WELFARE LEAGUE.