RANDOM REMINDER

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32707, 9 September 1971, Page 18

RANDOM REMINDER

POST, RIPOSTE

In these days filled with industrial strife, drug problems, taxation headaches, and the expression of vigorous disapproval by almost everyone of almost everyone else, it is refreshing to find that a sense of humour can fight its way through to the surface now and again—although even this little tale from the business area of Christchurch might well provide ammunition for the opponents of women’s lib. Apparently the ladies* netball team of the Union Steam Ship Company is short of funds,* or needs more to guarantee the success of some planned enterprise. For a few days ago Mount Cook Airlines received a ransom note from the netball ladies. It stated that a M.C.A. employee, who shall be called hfr X, was being held at the U.S.S. Co. office, and the ladies extended an invitation to M. C. A. to pay $5 for his

release, “should you wish to reclaim your fellow workmate.” This dramatic development was handled, at M.C.A., quite .adequately. Back to the netball ladies went this letter: “The Mount Cook Company Ladies champion marble test team wishes to commiserate with you during this unfortunate tinje, when you must endure the company of our fellow staff member Mr X. We are at present preparing a submission to our Board of Directors in an attempt to encourage them to raise the sum of $lO to ensure the permanent domicile of Mr X in the Union Steam Ship Co. offices. In the event of the Board, at its next monthly board meeting, not accepting this submission, we have included a clause whereby the ransom sum of $5 could be subtracted from Mr X’s wages, and thereby ensure his release in due course. We do hope your base-

ment provides comfortable dungeon accommodation for Mr X, as the process of his release may take some considerable time. Chains can. of course, be provided.” This document was signed and delivered one morning. But in the afternoon. the * champion marble test team was forced into further and hasty communication with the netballers.' Thus: “Further to our letter - ■ . we now find that Mr X has in his pocket the keys to the general manager’s automobile. His value has therefore increased considerably, and we have no alternative but to capitulate. At an emergency meeting of the board of directors, the sum of $5 was donated and is hereby enclosed. Please do not feel obliged to return anything more than the general manager’s car keys.” Poor Mr X. It cannot have done his confidence much good. 6.