(Jewish Telegraphic Agency)
A heavy rain poured down on the bills in Jinjar region today when Jewish and English representatives gathered to witness the planting of the first trees of the Balfour Forest to honor the author of the Balfour Declaration.
The first saplings were planted by Sir Alfred Mond, Lord Plumer, High Commissioner of Palestine. Harry Sacher, member of the Jerusalem Executive, M. M. Ussishkin, and Dr. David Yellin. Lady Plumer, Lady Mond and her daughter, Lady Erleigh, participated in the planting ceremonies.
Owing to the heavy rain, the exercises were transferred to Nahalal, nearby Jewish colony, where, at a luncheon presided over by M. M. Ussishkin, the addresses were delivered.
In his address Mr. Ussishkin said, “Balfour is like a great tree in whose shade the eternal wanderer, the Jewish people, has found rest.”
Sir Alfred Mond reviewed the present situation in Palestine, viewing it optimistically. The Zionist movement is young, he said. therefore it is impatient. But Zion is thousands of years old and despite repeated failures it has always risen. Sir Alfred concluded his address with the Hebrew phrase: “Nachamu, nachamu, ami.”
Lord Plumer stressed the importance of afforestation in Palestine. The Jewish afforestation is serving as an example for others. He promised government support for the enterprise.
Mr. Sacher said that wood was the symbol of strength and tireless endurance and indicated Balfour’s statesmanship, Dr. David Yellin brought greetings on behalf of the Vaad Leumi.
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