Raleigh, N. C., Nov. 11, 1919.

To the Younger Men of North Carolina:

Is there grit enough in your make-up that a man's challenge to you would strike fire? THERE IS!

Do I not recall with a thrill that today is the world's first anniversary of the world war armistice, and do I not recall with even greater thrill that the first smash of the boasted German line was administered by the sons of North Carolina? That heroic event, paving the way for the armistice, is proof sufficient that the boys of the Old North State will rise to a man's challenge, even when the stake is life or death.

There are issues not far removed in the future, determining the whole course and destiny of our national life, and even the peace of the world, which must of necessity be solved by you, the younger citizens of today. Think with me for a moment. Isn't the Government employing the finest strategy in determining to spend its greatest effort in training its next generation to fullest fitness?

As Governor of your Commonwealth, as a father and friend of younger men, as I prefer to call today's boys, but greatest of all as an American citizen, I appeal to you to read and reread this pamphlet. Actually absorb it. And then, under Heaven, soberly pledge that you will earnestly endeavor to come through to mature American citizenship, assuming whatever duties that glorious citizenship may impose, clean-limbed, strong-moraled, clear-eyed and keen-minded.

Younger men of today—I challenge you man to man.

Personally yours,

(S) T. W. BICKETT.