HON. W. HALL'-JONES.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 165, 12 July 1907, Page 5

HON. W. HALL-JONES.

A FAREWELL MESSAGE. (By Telegraph.—Own Correspondent.) CHRISTCHURCH, this day. Although the Hon. W. Hall-Jones has much improved in health since his arrival in Christchurch last week, the journey from his hotel to Lyttelton tried him a good deal last evening, and it was not until he was comfortably settled on board the Kaipara that the reporters were allowed to see him under the vigilant eye of Mrs. Hall-Jones. After chatting for some time with a representative of the "'"' Lyttelton Times" on matters of little importance. Mi - . Hall-Jones was asked to give a parting message to the people of New Zealand. This at once brought him to his feet, and, resting himself against the side of his cabin, he poured out an eloquent acknowledgment of all the obligations that had been placed upon him during the time of his illness. He said "My uppermost feeling just now, is one of deep gratitude to the people of New Zealand. The public have always treated mc well from the day of my first entrance into politics, but I never realised until I was stricken down by illness, how thoughtful they could' be for my welfare, and how generous in their estimate of my services. I have been condemned to the life of a recluse for a few months, and I must bear my sentence as best I can; but I have improved in health to such an extent during my stay in Christchurch that I am hopeful of coming back to the colony strong enough to make some return for all the kindness which has been pressed upon mc, and to help a little further in the work of developing our magnificent country. The future, however 5 is in wiser hands than-»mine, but if the worse should happen—and I don't wish to deceive myself or my friends as to this possibility—l shall at least have had the satisfaction of laying down my task at a time when the colony is exceptionally prosperous, when its outlook is more than ever encouraging, and when its public affairs are being controlled' by earnest, capable men in whom the people may safely place the utmost confidence."