REWARD FOR BRAVERY.

Auckland Star, Volume LV, Issue 248, 18 October 1924, Page 12

REWARD FOR BRAVERY.

PRESENTATION TO MAORI YOUTH. Some years ago, while going down St. Heller's wharf with other pupils, William Royal dived- into the sea to rescue a schoolmate, a, boy named Howard Allen, of Kohimarama. Seizing the drowning child the Maori lad called for a life-ibouy and rope, which were lowered. By this means the child Allen was drawn to' the wharf in safety. Royal then swam to the wharf steps which, he mounted. In thus saving his little schoolmate, the Maori boy displayed courage and presence of mind remarkable in a boy eleven years old. The certificate of the Royal Humane Society was presented to the Maori lad in the Council Chamber of the Auckland Town Hall. Later Mrs. Allen, mother of the rescued boy, gave t a donation, and other residents of iSt. Helier's and Kohimarama also subscribed. The money so raised was invested till Royal should be old enough to appreciate a suitable gift, and big enough to take proper care of it. Some time ago he left the native settlement at Orakei, and it was months before it was discovered that he was working on a farm near Levin. As his early return to Auckland seemed improbable, the trustees of the presentation fund decided to have the presentation made in Levin. A handsome and well-equipped bicycle, bearing a silver plate suitably inscribed, was forwarded to Constable Bagrie, of Levin. Mr. T. Hobson, Mayor of Levin, presented the Wcycle to the young Maori, William Royal, at a public meeting in the County Hall, Levin, a few days asro. The Mayor eulogised the action of the Maori youth, and made the presentation amid applause. A choice was offered to Royal who desired a bicycle •8 his present, , . _ . '