NOTES OF THE DAY

Dominion, Volume 23, Issue 31, 31 October 1929, Page 10

NOTES OF THE DAY

Public interest in the war against cancer has lately become, so keen that there should be no doubt about the attendance at the meeting which has been called by the Mayor of Wellington for Monday next to discuss the formation of a Wellington Division of the British Empire Cancer Campaign. According to a distinguished authority, reported in a cablegram yesterday, the victory over this disease is being brought nearer. However that may be, the. fact remains that there is much to be done before it can be definitely stated that scientific research has found the cure, although, as Lord Moynihan declares, in quite a number of accessible cases cures may now be confidently expected. The origin of the disease has yet to be determined, and the death-rate still remains at a high point. . lhe cause is essentially one for community effort. intelligently and systematically directed and generously supported with funds.

Although the vogue of radioed and recorded music threatens at present gravely to affect platform recitals, signs are not wanting that the players and singers may find the prospects brighter as time goes on. There are certain concomitants of a musical evening for which there are no mechanical substitutes. There is the personal aspect —the performers, the conductor with his wand, and the living presence of the entertainment. There must always be an audience for this, despite the achievements of the inventors. With these few observations one may commend this evening’s concert by the Wellington Symphony Orchestra to the favourable support of the public. What still remains to us of actual performers, who can delight us in the flesh is worthy of encouragement.

His Excellency the Governor-General’s very fine farewell address to the boys of Wellington College somewhat sharpens one’s sense of the loss the public is about to sustain in Sir Charles Fergusson’s relinquishment of his high office as Governor-General of New Zealand. A popularly accepted function of the King’s representatives overseas is to be nice to everyone, and say nice things about the country, its institutions, and its community activities, on such occasions as when bazaars are to be opened, foundation-stones laid, and other public events calling for appropriate ceremonial graced by his presence. Sir Charles Fergusson, however, has greatly ennobled his office by the inspirational character of his public addresses. His speeches have had the fine flavour of culture and literary grace, while at the same time conveying thoughts upon which the community could reflect upon with advantage to all. Furthermore, they have caught and held «the public’s attention. From this point of view the description applied to His Excellency by the headmaster of Wellington College, that of “a great teacher.” is an admirably chosen tribute.