Fifth Anniversary

"Blackshirts of all Italy!" Thus began a proclamation of Prime Minister Benito Mussolini on the occasion of the fifth anniversary of the Fascist march on Rome, Oct. 28, 1922. In accordance with the Prime Minister's recent decision, th< In his proclamation to the nation in general and the Fascisti in particular, Signor Mussolini said:

"For the fifth time the date has come round which strikes a chord in all our hearts, kindles our hopes and humiliates everywhere our fainthearted enemies. With deeds, not words, we will celebrate it.

"Railroads, roads, aqueducts, public buildings, land reclaiming enterprises and houses have been witnesses to the whole world how Fascismo transforms Italy and increases its strength in all fields. This review of our obstinate endeavor completed by the rally of all your legions in arms, is a solemn warning to any one hatching the folly of attempting to halt our march.

"Blackshirts, the fifth year also closes with a formidable surplus on the credit side of the ledger. Some events among many entitle it to a place in the history of the Fascist regime: The victorious defense of the lira, the rent laws and the promulgation of the labor charter.

"New, great labors await us. But the Fascist regime does not retreat before difficulties. It faces and overcomes them. The events of the sixth year which begins tomorrow will prove it.

"Blackshirts, as in the past 'see it through' must be our motto for the future. See it through with perfect discipline, absolute self-effacement. To perfect the instruments of the Fascist revolution, to multiply their strength, to temper their spirits for all future battles--these still are and ever will be the duties alike of leaders and followers.

"Blackshirts of all our vigils, youths eager for even more vigorous trials, up with your muskets, your banners, for Fascist Italy! For all the goals which we will reach with the decided step of our undiminished faith, Fascisti of all Italy, alala!"*

*Eia, da, alala! Battle call of the Fascisti.