At Exeter University Steele was most annoyed at being offered his degree if he enlisted. ‘My protest against the 1914 war… was based 1) on my wholehearted belief that ONLY in seeking to implement the teaching of Jesus… would men find the best way to live happy, worthwhile, good lives. 2) on my firm conviction that Socialism… was to be the economic, social form or expression, of living the religious life of a citizen of that kingdom of God... Christianity and Socialism forbade any resort to war.’ Court martialled five times, sentenced to 7 years with Hard Labour, Steele served most of his time in Maidstone Prison, and was released from Preston in April 1919.