THE POLES OF WESTERN GERMANY. (To THE EDITOR OF -THE
"SPECTATOR."] Sia,—When the problem of Poland is discussed at the Peace Con- ference after the complete overthrow of the Germans, the claims of the numerous Poles settled in Western Germany should not be overlooked. I refer to the Poles working in the industrial parts of Westphalia and the Rhine Province, treated as helots now and most likely as slaves after the war unless effective steps are taken to safeguard their national rights in case they do not desire to become German subjects on the Kingdom of Poland being re-estab- lished. I.ike the Poles of Posen, Silesia, and Western Prussia, they should be released from any allegiance to the Kaiser, so that these Poles would have a free choice between renewing their allegi- ance or becoming aliens with special privileges. Any desire as to Home Rule on the part of the small settlement of Wends in the Lausitz district of Brandenburg, who still retain their Slav lan- guage and customs, should also find a willing ear.—I am, Sir, &c., National Liberal Club, Victoria Street, S.W. W. R. Pelee.
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