"DOWN GLASSES I" [To THE EDITOP. OF THE " SPECTATOR."]
you let me say that your campaign against our Mat national extravagance, and in favour of that one great sacrifice which would enable us to concentrate all our energies on winning the war, is stirring many hearts here with enthusiasm and hope ? As you have pointed out many times, Irish politicians are much to blame for the disastrous failure of a year ago. But I am strongly of opinion, from my intimate knowledge of this part of Ireland, that these politicians do not really represent the people in this matter. My conviction is that the people here are ready and willing to be led. They are only waiting for guidance. As one who has many opportunities of gleaning information about the condition of things in this respect in the only great industrial centre in Ireland, the only part of this island where war work on a vast scale is being done, it may interest you to know the results of my observations.
(1) It is admitted here by the great employers and others who have means of knowing that the standard of sobriety amongst the workers in the shipyards of Belfast and other great works is distinctly high. There has been, indeed, a marked improvement. This is partly due to the great moral influence exerted by the war, and partly to the splendid loyalty
which characterizes the men as a whole. It should be remembered that Belfast has given one-third of all the recruits from Ireland. This satisfactory state of things is not an argument against the "Down glasses " movement. Quite the contrary. The men who have done so much will be prepared to do more, if the saorifice is demanded of them.
(2) The police authorities' report of the city of Belfast is, on the whole, good. But two things have to be remembered. First, the police will not arrest men in khaki if they can possibly avoid it. This is admitted. Every one who knows this city is aware that the treating of young soldiers is, at present, a gigantic evil, and with disastrous results. It is the survival of a vicious custom, from which most of our people would be thankful to be delivered. Secondly, owing to the quantity of loose money now in the hands of women, the drinking amongst them is reaching the most appalling proportions. And hero, again, it is known that the police will only interfere when there is an absolute necessity. This is a class that the State should be specially anxious to protect at a time of special danger—a time when money is plentiful and emotional excitement frequent and Intense, (3) It is believed, on excellent authority, that Ulster Members of Parliament will not stand in the way of the needful reform. My conviction is that Ulstermen, who thoroughly understand what is meant by efficiency, and are perfectly clear-eyed as regards the deadening and disorganizing influences of strong drink, will support the Government in making whatever sacrifice may be necessary for the ending of the war. I have no doubt at all about this. Let us know, on authority, that the thing must be done, and we shall do it. England may absolutely depend on the loyalty of Ulster.—I am, Sir, &c., CEARLES F. DOWN (Bishop of Down).
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