THE PEACE CRUSADE IN OLDHAM - NEWSPAPER LETTERS

OLDHAM CHRONICLE
9th August 1917 (Thursday)
THE PEACE MEETING

Sir, I would like to know the difference between German kultur and British hooliganism. I understand that our boys had to go and fight to save us from the former being forced upon us, and that they were fighting for liberty, freedom and justice and a lot of other things. I should like to know who the liberty, etc., is for. Colonial artillery men only? Cannot an ordinary civilian express an opinion now without being ill-used? I have heard the Germans spoken about as mad dogs. I couldn't help thinking as I walked along the streets of Oldham last night, "there are others." I also thought when I looked at those men, hungry for a fight, why are they not in France? They surely look more fit for the job than our poor factory lads, who have never had a chance to grow big. I am only a poor soldier's wife struggling to keep my home together by my own labour and the generous Goverment allowance. I think the authorities are playing with fire if they allow this sort of thing to go on. There are many kinds of soldiers now, and I know some who will be very indignant when I send your paper to them and they read of Monday night's scenes.
Yous,
A SOLDIER'S WIFE