THE WORK BEHIND THE TRENCHES.

The sudden outburst of indignation from some of our regular army in France against the presence of able-bodied men in the ambulance and other non-combatant branches of services in the war raises the question--is it right that such men should choose minor services rather than take the more exacting and dangerous work of the front trenches?

The CRIMSON believes that it is right and even necessary for fit and physically capable men to be enlisted in the auxiliary services. Less dangerous such work may be, but not less wearing or less expedient. The infantry and artillery do not need every able-bodied man in the nation to serve them directly. On the contrary, just as many able-bodied men must serve their countries behind the line as are ever in the first line trenches. The necessity that the auxiliary services shall assist the actual fighters to the full extent of their ability demands that these services shall be conducted as efficiently as possible. Strong men are needed behind the battle-line in order that the efforts of those in the line shall be made effective.

Of course the ambulance, medical, transport corps, etc., offer exceptional opportunities for men who are unable on account of physical disability to fight in the trenches,--but the efficient operation of these services, as well as of those in civil life, demands sufficient numbers of men of the utmost degree of intelligence and capability.