A HUMORIST.

Bush Advocate, Volume XXIII, Issue 309, 12 January 1912, Page 7

A HUMORIST.

AND A "CABINET-MAKER." Amongst the many communications received by Mr AV. F. Massey since the recent sad defeat of Sir Joseph Ward at the hustings there was at least one from a born humorist. Everybody knows that when the present Prime Minister shall have made up his reluctant mind to give up the reins of office Mr Massey will be sent for by the Governor, or in some other constitutional way installed in the late leader's place. Here is what the secretary of a certain furniture union said to Mr Massey in a letter anticipating the coming change:—"lf you are not already aware of the fact, I beg to notify you that our union has had preference to unionists granted to it by the Arbitration Court. It will therefore be necessary for you, when you take up your new position as Prime Minister, to become a member of our union, as there are cabinetmakers belonging to it who a.-e out of work. Ido not want to be placed in the position of having' to take action against your employers for a broach of the award, and as no doubt you will be given permanent employment if found suitable,! then I think it is "up to you' to immediately join. Awaiting your application, I remain," etc. . .

Mr Masse v. entering into the spirit of the replied to his correspondent in the following terms:—"l have to acknowledge your favour calling my attention to the fact that, as it may be mv dutv in the near future to take up the business of cabinetmaking, it will be necessary for me to become a member of your union.- As I am desirous of complying with the laws of the country and the customs of the industry, I shall be glad if you will enrol my name as a member of the union, in the ordinary way. I may be permitted to mention here that, in order to ensure permanent employment, and at the same time be a credit to the union. I am anxious that the material and workmanship of my first Cabinet shall be of the very best. As material, I propose to use solid mahogany only, and consequently no veneer, however skilful. Furthermore, in the way of workmanship I hope to put together a Cabinet superior to anything seen in New Zealand for many years past."—Auckland Herald.