6 FEBRUARY 1915, Page 2

The applications for the badge have not been abused, and

the greatest gratitude has been shown by its recipients, who now number over a thousand. In an appreciable number of cases rejected men, encouraged by therecognition of their patriotism, have tried again and succeeded. It is greatly to be hoped that now the proposal has Lord Roaebery's powerful aid the Sheriffs or Lords-Lieutenant of other counties will take up the matter. A badge is better than a certificate, because the badge is a visible proof that the young man who wears it is not a shirker, but has done his beet. A man cannot always be bringing out a piece of paper as proof of his patriotism. The names of all receivers of the badge and the causes of rejection should be entered in a ledger for future reference.