_By Philip Frankford_
The conscientious objector is a brave man. He will be remembered as
one of the few noble actors in this world drama when the impartial
historian of the future sums up the history of this awful war.
The C.O. is putting down militarism. He is fighting for freedom
and liberty. He is making a mighty onslaught upon despotism. And,
above all, he is preparing the way for the final abolition of war.
But thanks to the lying, corrupt, and dastardly capitalist Press
these facts are not known to the general public, who have been taught
to look upon the conscientious objectors as skunks, cowards, and
shirkers.
Lately a renewed persecution of C.O.’s has taken place. In spite of
the promises of ‘truthful’ Cabinet Ministers, some C.O.’s have been
sent to France, and there sentenced to death—a sentence afterwards
transferred to one of ‘crucifixion’ or five or ten years’ hard
labour. But even when allowed to remain in this country we have to
chronicle the most scandalous treatment of these men—the salt of
the earth. Saintly individuals like Clifford Allen, Scott Duckers,
and thousands of others, no less splendid enthusiasts in the cause
of anti-militarism, are in prison for no other reason than because
they refuse to take life; and because they will not throw away
their manhood by becoming slaves to the military machine. These men
must be freed. The political ‘offenders’ of Ireland ...
Then I turned over and read: