AMERICAN SYMPATHY WITH ALLIES.

Taranaki Daily News, 19 April 1916, Page 4

AMERICAN SYMPATHY WITH ALLIES.

The manifesto of sympathy and hope for the victory of the Allies, which has just 'been forwarded to Britain, signed by Ave hundred of the most prominent citizens of the United States, will be all the more appreciated because it is the first definite expression of enlightened American opinion on the cause for which the Allies are contending. It is claimed by the signatories that the document expresses the feelings' of an overwhelming majority of Americans, and the reasons given for the delay in voicing the sentiments contained in the manifesto are such a s will be readily accepted by all concerned. It is perfectly clear that there is a consensus of opinion among the unbiassed citizens of the United States that they expected the Government to have long since shown their sympathy wiijh the Allies, and this opinion is one that is worldwide. They also intimate their horror and detestation at Teuton methods of warfare, a matter on which the President has been ominously siient, but on which the leading people of the country feel they can no longer remain silent. It is significant that some of the signatories are of German birth, and that they also recognise that the welfare of civilisation demands the defeat of the Austro-Germnns. Though the sympathy is somewhat belated, its public manifestation at this juncture is extremely opportune, and it should be of great service in reviving that friendship for Americans which has been felt for many years by all the Allies. At the same time, it implies a distinct censuro on President Wilson and his administration for failing to perform a manifest duty, and it is to be .hoped that it will result in bringing about a firm attitude towards Germany.