THE SAILORS' HOME.

Auckland Star, Volume XXIX, Issue 186, 9 August 1898, Page 2

THE SAILORS' HOME.

(To the Editor.)

Sir, —In your issue of last evening 'Shellback' draws attention to the facts that in our port destitute seamen cannot obtain relief, whilst there is built a beautiful rest, endowed by the late Mr Costley, who as the tablet inside the home states, 'denied himself of most of the luxuries of life to provide for-the poor of Auckland.'. Now, Sir, most Auckland citizens pride themselves on th 3 fact of .a sailors' rest being built and endowed as ours is, and: think that the seafaring men are well provided for. As this is a public.institution let me tell the public a few facts. Of all the seamen of our port hardly two-fifths will stay at the Rest. Very few seamen who have no money and are looking for a ship can obtain relief there; few seamen who have money will lodge at the j Best, but will go elsewhere. You will i.often hear the remark that it is a gumdigger's home and not a. sailor's. Is it not right that citizens of Auckland should inquire into their institution? Let us, Sir, arise to the occasion and see if we cannot give to our bold British sailor that which has been justly left him. Our sailors have a number of dangers and hardships to meet for our benefit, so it is the least we can do to help them to enjoy a few comfortable hours ashore.— Yours truly, W. N. CAUGHLAN.