CREMATION.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXII, Issue 15, 18 January 1901, Page 2

CREMATION.

(To the EditorJ

Sir,—"Common" Sense" having so ably refuted the sentimental effusions of your correspondent "Sanitas," but little remains for. me to say in reply. In addition, I would, however, ask him to point out anything more revolting to the feelings of civilised men and women than the fact that the remains of those most dear to them, under the present system, are slowly undergoing a process of decay. That is exceptionally painful and distressing, apart from all other sanitary considerations; while at the same time science has provided a speedy and effectual remedy at a comparatively small cost. Again, it is asserted on reliable information, that some of the old graves have been re-opened, and thereoy desecrated by fresh interments, demoralising and blunting the finer qualities implanted in us by the hand of an Almighty Maker. Let me say, in conclusion, that public opinion, is already in favour of a reformation, and one that is much needed: that the new century will be gratefully remembered by us. as having introduced this, with' many other improvements, and that in all probability our own legislature in the coming session will se it an accomplished fact in the interest and welfare of the people committed to their charge. At the same time, there could be no objection to friends and relatives Claiming the purified ashes of deceased persons, and depositing them, if so desired, in suitable-vessels or cairns, ln their own fardetJß, or -fitter still, following the ex-

ample of a noble lady in the Old Country, by placing them in a flower pot, surmounted by a ehoiee exotic, enlisting, as it has done on all sides, profound sympathy and admiration.—l am ,etc. M.D.

(To the Editor.)

Sir.—ln reference to lettsis from Mr R. R. Hunt, "M.D.,'' and others in late issues of your paper on the above subject, the matter is one I feel mucti interested In. I hope to be incinerated when I shutS<> off this mortal coil. If those who are against this system of disposing of the dead saw a human body in an advanced state of decomposition I guess they would receive such a shock as would cause most of them to alter their opinion. If anything can be done in the matter I shall be glad to give my services as architect to prepare plans and specifications and supervise the works gratis as my subscription to so good a cause. That is how I feel on the subject.—l am, etc., JAS. SLATOR. 17/1/1901.