In Troubled Greece by R. S. Greaves

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 27, 1913

In Troubled Greece

By R. S. Greaves

R. S. GREAVES

Before the war broke out there were many rumors, but the whole Levant is a land of rumors, and if one paid too much attention to them he would never venture at anything. Therefore, having business at Saloniki, I started out. On arriving at Athens, it was easy to see that something unusual was taking place, and within a few hours it seemed that the whole nation had suddenly become electrified.

During my short stay it became apparent I had better not try to go to Saloniki, and the question was whether I could even return home, for the government seized steamers, railway-trains, automobiles, and horses. The reserves were being called to the colors, and everything available was bringing them. The small coast steamers were coming in from every direction, crowded with men who, as soon as they got within jumping distance, came ashore with a shout of “Hurrah! Hurrah for the war!” They struck one straight line for the barracks to get their names enrolled, and don soldiers’ clothes. Officers on horseback were galloping through the streets, and military carts filled with war materials rolled along, The whole place was stirring, and preparing for a desperate struggle.

One evening I found a small steamer that was supposed to be just starting for my home town. It was crowded with men, and loaded down to the water’s edge with merchandise, and I considered myself fortunate to get a place even on the open deck; and it was no time to complain although we were delayed nearly twelve hours before sailing, not starting until after daylight the next morning. After a while I found an unoccupied chair, and made myself quite

comfortable, considering the heat. I was very glad indeed when about the following midnight I reached home.

WIRE HILL MISSION STATION, BRITISH EAST AFRICA

During my short absence, what a change had taken place! The grocer and his assistant just across the street were no longer in their accustomed places. They were called to be soldiers. The same was true of many other tradesmen all around us. The familiar faces had given place to the faces of strangers. This is a time when old men and boys are in great demand. Where conscription exists it is not the regular soldiers only who go to war, and here at this time it is the arming of the nation.

In the excitement of the moment there is no doubt the enthusiasm has been great. The first change from this I noticed when a number of troops were embarking on steamers to go to the front. There was no noisy demonstration, for it was realized that many would never return, and women with handkerchiefs to their red, swollen eyes could be seen everywhere. As the troops passed the spot where I was standing, I noticed the crowd silently doffed their caps as a parting sign of respect to their kinsmen who were going to fight. Many a hasty hand-shake was given as friend passed friend.

What is it all for? We might almost liken it to some one wanting a garden-patch that another has, and that can be purchased only with blood; and so the price is paid. If some of those heartbroken wives and mothers had that garden-patch, how willingly they would give it in order that their loved ones might have the privilege of staying at home. People are already tired of the war, and its dreadful toll is being seen by the increasing number of women dressed in black that one meets on the streets every day. We hope it may soon end.