[TO TER EDITOR OP THE "SPECTATOR. "] Sire—There is an aspect
of recruiting which I have not seen touched upon lately, but which deserves serious consideration at this juncture. Among the supporters of compulsory service it has always been a root argument that the voluntary system threw an unfair burden upon one section of the community. If that was true in time of peace, it is immeasurably more so now that war is a reality and the approach of winter makes the comforts of home seem more than ever delectable. To the man who is actually undergoing the hardships and sacrifices of the soldier the thought that the shirker is still enjoying those comforts must be one of exceeding bitterness. There are those, moreover, who tell us that many decent men say they prefer to serve and will only serve if compulsion is applied alike to all. The upshot of which reflections is that the Government seem foolish to ignore the principle of "the line of least resistance," and perpetuate a system which makes it harder for the willing and easier for the unwilling to respond or turn a deaf ear to the country's call. And if "every man of military age is wanted," why go through the form of issuing papers to be filled up with the names of those who are willing to serve, instead of (as you. Sir, have advocated all along) the names of
those who are of military age 7-1 am, Sir, &c., X.
P.S.—I see the various football, golf clubs, &c., salve their consciences by giving the gate-money to one or other of the war charities. Would it not be a step in the right direction if such offerings were to be declined with thanks P
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