VETERAN LEADER'S MESSAGE TO TROOPS.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume IV, Issue 944, 19 February 1917, Page 7

VETERAN LEADER'S MESSAGE TO TROOPS.

HIGH PRAISE FOR SIR DOUGLAS HAIG.

MUTUAL CONFIDENCE OF LEADER AND ARMY.

Australian and N.Z. Cable Association. (Received February 19, 8.55 a.m.) LONDON, February 18. Field-Marshal Sir Evelyn Wood, V.C.. has sent to the "Observer''" a. message for the men at the front, lie says:—

"I look forward with confidence to the issue, because, personally, .1 look back so far historically. In former wars our soldiers often won a battle under brave but incapable leaders. I have served with leaders, personally very brave, who would not risk the loss of a company.

"Lord French and Sir Douglas llaig have both shown the qualities of heart and head which are indispensable to success. Sir Douglas llaig tells us of his deep-rooted confidence in his troops, which I am sure is well founded, for all my letters attest the soundness of his confident belief, and that the troops reciprocate his trust.

"Twenty-five years ago Lord French and I agreed that Sir Douglas llaig was our best instructed junior officer. I believe lhat he, having carefully estimated the value of his objective, will not shrink from asking his troops for any necessary sacrifice."