EARLY SETTLERS

Evening Post, Volume CXXIII, Issue 112, 13 May 1937, Page 6

EARLY SETTLERS

CORONATION CELEBRATION

The Early Settlers' and Historical Association of Wellington celebrated the Coronation by holding a social gathering yesterday afternoon. There was a large attendance of early settlers, and among them were' Mr. H. Dunn, aged 97, and Mrs. Urwin, aged 96.

Professor F. P. Wilson, who presided, spoke on the meaning of the Throne, and traced its history from earliest times. The life of a British Sovereign, he said, was nearly always devoid of show, and was the life of a really hardworking man. His life was no' one of ease, and he was circumscribed by convention. When a monarch attempted to do something of which his people did not approve, there was only one thing for him to do—leave the Throne. So did Edward VIII. Since the time of Queen Victoria a monarch did not attempt to interfere with administrative or diplomatic matters. A monarch must take the advice of his Ministers, but he could dissuade them from taking a certain course. A monarch's position was unique in the

influence he wielded, but power he had none. The National Anthem was a prayer for the King, not as an individual, but as a representative of great traditions of the' British race, and was a prayer for everything the British people stood for. When anyone refused to stand and sing the National Anthem, that person had no vision of the British nation.

The Acting Prime Minister (the Hon. P. Fraser) expressed his pleasure at being present. Mr. Fraser paid a glowing tribute to 'the work of the pioneers. On Coronation Day it was fitting that a tribute should be oaid to those who won . this country. The King and Queen understood our country and' the people.

During the afternoon, musical items were contributed by Miss Reynolds and Madame Bligh.