A RALLY AROUND THE FLAG

Evening Post, Volume LXXXIX, Issue 148, 24 June 1915, Page 6

A RALLY AROUND THE FLAG

Masterton has again come splendidly into public view by a rally around a flag. At a fitting time and place last night — a boxing carnival — a national flag was offered at auction, and the sale produced £21,574 for the Wounded Soldiers Fund, in bids ranging from £200 to 2000 guineas, at which figure it was "knocked down" to Mr. A. P. Whatman, who had already tendered 1000 guineas. Thus the bunting has a £3150 line in the owner's cheque-book, but he will have a permanent pleasure in the memory of that wonderful auction night. The Wairarapa' men have been prompt and generous with their gifts. It is reported that the Lower Valley has contributed £40,000 to the Wounded Soldiers Fund in less than a week, without any canvass or other artificial stimulus or incitement. A welcome feature of the flag incident — and one which all thoughtful members of the public will appreciate— is that the £21,574 is £21,574. The cost of collection v was nil ; it is straight-out cash, net. It is direct aid ; the givers have not handed out their money in response to a lure, They, are content with the giving, and they expect nothing in return — except, no doubt, they may hope at heart that their example may inspire some others to act likewise.