THRIFT.

Auckland Star, Volume LVII, Issue 134, 8 June 1926, Page 15

THRIFT.

(To die Editor, i Sir.—l see "D.M.'s" contribution on "Thrift" embodied in it the same errors that are made by other well intentioned people. Where I disagree with the philosophy of thrift is, is its downward tendencies if fully followed out; even here "D.M." and I join issue in the latter part of his contribution when he voices moderation in things essential, or full and plenty without waste. I see "A Careful Housewife" voices the same view. The spendthrifts and the misers we have with us. Some name the former fools and the latter knaves. They are the extremes at opposite ends of the philosophy of saving. For the spendthrifts it can be said that they in a hazy way acknowledge that, being on this earth for a short period, they intend to enjoy a full and happy life, according to their way of thinking; and I say it is such people who give the wheels of progress a good spin round. On the other hand the misers absolutely refuse to partake of the good things of life. If their philosophy were generally adopted, it would tear down the standard of living to that of the most backward motion. I know of people who coiild live a great deal better than they do but for their desire to hoard up money, and being ignorant of the economics of life, they cry out about the cost of living. I suppose if some of these propagators of thrift were in an open boat from a ehipwreck and were on short rations, even then they would save by biding their rations. To give according to ability, to take according to needs is the right way. We are not all built out of one mould, and knowing this, the teetotaller and boozer, the vegetarian and beef eaters should join issue in tolerance, and go their respective ways.— I am, etc., WM. MURDOCH.