THE NATION'S ODD-MAN.
[To THE EDITOR OF THE " SPECTATOR."]
Snt,—I can fully endorse what " Sixty, but Willing; says in your issue of the 19th inst. He only voices what is going on all over the eountry. The platoon to which I belong was raised just twelve months ago, and the strength at the commencement was close on one hundred ; to-clay a parade of twenty is considered very good ! Allowing for wastage due to quite valid causes will not account for such a serious falling off, and nothing but recognition by the Government, and that speedily, will restore to the movement its original vigour. But the Government must do something more than merely recognize us. If we are called upon to undertake duty away from the immediate neighbourhood of our homes, there must be an allowance for food, lodging and travelling expenses. There are many members of the force who in giving their time are making a considerable sacrifice, and to whom the addition of out-of-pocket expenses is a serious consideration. Give us a legal status, arms, and a fixed allowance for our out-of-pocket expenses when sent away on duty from our immediate locality, and we will manage the rest ourselves.—I am, Sir, &c., SECTION COMMANDER.
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