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Hawera Star, Volume XLVI, 31 May 1927, Page 9

An Irishman once went into a jeweller’s shop to buy a wedding ring. “Eighteen carats?’’ asked the shopman. “No, atin’ onions, if its any consarn av yours,” replied Pat. This has been the experience of the Hon. the Minister of Public Works, his secretary, his typiste, Messrs. Smith and Dickie, M.P.’s, Mr. Manson, Mayor of Taumarunui and a few camp followers. According to the “Taumarunui Pres%, ” they were making a trip down the Wanganui River, and, having landed frequently to examine the roads, bridges and settlements, were belated on their way to Pipiriki. They became very hungary, and landed at a spot where a large fire was burning on the bank, and where a deputation of soldier settlers had been waiting. The party hoped to see the billy on the fire, but, instead, they were regaled with settlers’ grievances. One knows how the pent-up eloquence of a deputation will flow when given a chance. At last one of the men disappeared and came back with an armful of onions. These were roasted on the embers and restored strength to the travellers. As the French say, “L’onion fait la force. ’ ’ Doubtless the fare added “flavour” to the Minister’s remarks in replying to the deputation.