NOT A COMMERCIAL TRAVELLER

Manawatu Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 3336, 3 May 1926, Page 6

NOT A COMMERCIAL TRAVELLER

[To the Editor.]

Sir, —In a recent issue of one of the local newspapers, under vhe heading, “Assault On a G-irl —Eldc-rly Man Charged," there appeared a report of an assault made on a young girl by an elderly man whose occupation was given as a traveller and canvasser. In fairness to the me in tiers of the Commercial Travellers’ Association, 1 desire to point out that the man is not and never has been a member of the Commercial Travellers’ Association. It is most unfortunate that the man’s occupation was given as a traveller and canvasser as there is a vast difference between the two vocations and also between the calibre of the men holding such positions. Before a man can become a Commercial Traveller ho is compelled to go through a severe training. He is taught to control his feelings, and X venture to claim that no member of the Commercial Travellers’ Association, whether under the influence of drink or not would commit an offence against any girl whether young or old. It is almost impossible for a man with a shady past or with lax morals to become a member of the Commercial Travellers’ Association. Unfortunately, there is a certain type of individual, who, when faced with trouble brought on through his own weakness or through over indulgence in drink, tries to shelter behind the Commercial Travellers’ Association by claiming to be a traveller which when defined means “to travel’’ or “a wayfarer.” It appears to me that any “hobo” can call himself a traveller, but as the use of this world is inclined to mislead the public into' believing that the man is a Commercial Traveller, I think that in justice to legitimate Commercial Travellers and Association members, the police should thoroughly inquire into a man’s vocation before stating that he is a “traveller and canvasser.” I would like the public to take held that canvassers are not legitimate Commercial Travellers.

The standing of the members of the Commercial Travellers’ Association, the good work done by them towards assisting destitute women and Children, the “down-and-out," also those who have reached the sore and yellow leaf stage, is too well-known to need further comment.

Yours faithfully, ALBERT J. HERN, Secretary, P.N. Commercial Travellers’ Assn,