A COMEDY IN STONE

Greymouth Evening Star, 20 September 1932, Page 12 (Supplement)

A COMEDY IN STONE

If any enquiring West Coaster were to make his way into the yard of a certain stone-mason in Christchurch, and ask to inspect foundation stones, he would find a handsome specimen, on which are engraved the names of a Prime Minister of New Zealand, and certain members of the Grey Electric Power Board. Connected with the said stone is a story of good intentions, unfulfilled. In May, 1925, the Board decided that a foundation stone should be placed in position at the Dobson power-house. It was also decided that a suitable stone should be purchased at Christchurch, and that the names of the Board members should be inscribed upon it, with other appropriate lettering. The then Minister of Public Works was invited to visit , Dobson, and place the foundation" stone in position, but he was unable to make the trip. The matter was left in abeyance until January, 192 G, when the then Prime Minister was invited to lay the stone. His acceptance was taken for granted, and his name was also engraved on the stone. The Board was too previous, however, and the Prime Minister found that he was unable to make the visit. Then Tie Board decided to abandon the ’eying of the foundation stone, and the steam plant at Dobson began generating electricity, without anything in the nature of an official opening ceremony. , The stone still lies in the mason s vard. It was paid for by the Board, hut delivery was never taken. No doubt it is gathering a splendid coat of moss ! '