“SHOWS THE RIGHT SPIRIT”

Dominion, Volume 22, Issue 51, 23 November 1928, Page 10

“SHOWS THE RIGHT SPIRIT”

A CALL ON THE MAYOR INDIANS’ DONATION FOR ART GALLERY "We are the members of the Indian Association, and we make subscription to Art Galleree. It is eighteen pounds and sixpence, yis from Wellington Indian Association,” so said the spokesman of a deputation of Indians (Bombay natives) who called on the Mayor (Mr. G. A. Troup) yesterday afternoon. All were keen, bright-eyed, wellgroomed young men, who evidently gloried in their citizenship, and were glad to contribute their mite to the cultural ideal ahead. “I accept with very great pleasure,” said the Mayor, almost taken aback by the nature of the gift. “I’m sure it's very good of you to give so freely. This is from ?” “Wellington Indian Association.” “I see, you have an association?” "Yis, sir—lndian Association. We have ’bout sivinty-fif members.” "And you do not wish the money acknowledged from individuals?” "No, all from association, pleese, sir, yis!” “Well, I am very pleased—it comes with all the greater surprise because it has been unsolicited. We have now had subscriptions from many of the national groups—the Greeks, Syrians, Danes, Chinese and others. It all shows the right spirit. I wish you to convey the thanks of the Mayor, the Council, and the committee to all who subscribed. You are all enrolled?” "Oh, yis.” "All citizens of Wellington?” "Yis, sir. We are all New Zealanders” (proudly).

"I wish to say,” said the president, “that any time you have fund for good object, Indian Association will help 1”