The Catholic Herald has published papers proving, if they be
genuine, the extraordinary attempts made in Germany to induce Irish prisoners of war• to form an Irish Brigade in order to fight against England and "liberate" Ireland. The help of Sir Roger Casement and an American priest was called in. We are not surprised at all this, but we are moved to admiration and profound respect by the splendid answer of the Irish soldiers. A letter to the Emperor drawn up by the N.C.O.'s acknowledges the exceptional treatment given to the Irish prisoners—better food and less work than for the other prisoners—but begs the Emperor to withdraw these conces- sions unless they can he extended to the other prisoners. "In addition to being Irish Catholics," say the signatories, "we have the honour to be British soldiers." The phrase deserves to become immortal.
Previous page
