South Bend news-times., 1922-09-12
SEPTEMBER II. 1922
4 BRITISH UBE.

Another piece OF British propaganda ever at
work In this country comes TO light in the treat
ment which the Encyclopedia Britannica gives to
former Secretary OF War Baker Lord Bal
four
Forgetful of the fact that Mr. Baker was at the
head Of that department OF government which
raised and equipped an army OF four million men
ard sent two millions OF them overseas at time
when Great Britain was nearly ready to yield 70
Germany and France was demoralized and ready
10 capitulate. this supposedly reliable authority has
the temery TO call Baker politician. granting
scant 200 words to his service and then describe
Balfour as a statesman" and devote four columns
his praise
When the history of the is written and
years give the prorer perspective to the forces
which contributed to its victory, the of New
ton D. Baker will be written high the list of
those who rendered unusual service.
Il Is no easy task to turn civilian population
into a military organization within a few months,
70 train and equip the largest army ever assembled
by this government. to send half that army thous
ands Of miles across seas and then TO follow with
supplies and with ammunition.
1t was no easy task to arouse a nation to that
pitch Of loyalty where II consented to the appca-
tion of principle in military service, that of
selection and then gather army Of four millions
practically without protest
a
for such a draft in a which would elimin-
ale favo-itism and political Full and has
ever charged Mr.. Baker with permitting any fav-
oritism or OF granting any special favor to son of
the rich and powerful Three cases which caused
criticism and comment not approved by him
and were granted by him
In the handling of the conscientious objector, an
even more difficult task was accomplished in an
unusual manner Religious ideals are sacred in
this country There is universal sentiment of
protection of conscience. and great contempt
for those who would use this excuse as shield for
cowardice.
The records in that matter show that out Of the
original "a 600 who applied for exemption on this
ground less than a thousand finally refused to give
military service That achievement speaks well for
his tact and his understanding of men.
Admittedly 10 the credit of Mr.. Baker is the fact
that the quotas OF men and the schedules of sup
rlies arrived in Europe three months in advance OF
any possible expectation OF the military experts
sent by Great Britain and France TO watch de-
velopments.
Now this British publication. endeavoring to be-
little the accomplishment of outstanding Ameri-
can in order that the future may be more greatly
dazzled by British prowess. dares to say that he
was lacking in ability. energy or foresight
Few public officials have the enviable record OF
The war secretary Repeatedly elected mayor OF
Cleveland by the votes Of the laborer and small
.-adasr,an he returned from his duties at Wash
inrton TO head the Chamber of Commerce, repre-
senting the larger interests of the city.
Few other public officials have received such
unanimous approval so unanimous an endorse
ment OF honesty executive ability and far sight,
edness.
The animus which could inspire so biased an at
tack f. dscoverable only in that persistent effort
which is being made TO recapture the colonies oS
peaceful penetration, extollng those VINO tai io'
.be siren song of Aattery and endeavorins to ruin
-, ,ho-. Ar,ericansm is proof against either
threats or favors
-rrs British iibe is really high compliment