STIRRING MESSAGE

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXVII, Issue 26, 1 October 1913, Page 5

STIRRING MESSAGE

HAPPY RETURNS TO ‘3OBS.’

YOUNG MEN) ARM YOURSELVES!

[By Electric Telegraph—Copyright j [United Press Association.] (Received 9.15 a.m.) London', September SO. Lord Roberts has received hundreds of birthday congratulations from all parts of the world, and, in reply, issues a stirring message to the nation: “If these were my last words,” lie says, “I would say:—‘Young men, arm yourselves! I especially address myself to artisans who are being urged to refuse their duties in time of war. You will not extend your rights by shirking your duties. You are the capital, life, and wealth of the Nation, and tho easiest way of bettering yourselves is to make Britain better. Assert your rights by defending your Honor as Britishers, and your Liberties as Citizens of the Empire.’ ”

Lord Roberts was born at Cawnpore, India, on September 50th, 1833. His connection with the British Army dates from 1851, when he was a second lieutenant in the Bengal Artillery. He fought through the Indian Mutiny and also .saw service m Abyssinia, South Africa, and Afghanistan, being well known popularly for his march to Kandahar. He has rendered enormous service to the Empire, and has been on several occasions thank ed by both Houses of Parliament.