GRAVES OF THE PIONEERS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXVI, 15 December 1932, Page 2

GRAVES OF THE PIONEERS

(To the Editor) Sir, —“Nor’-Wester” in replying to my letter has given us a very beautiful picture. Certainly, as Noble 11. Cozens says, “lie has a vision,” but “without a vision the people perish.” Such a garden as he suggests would be a most suitable memorial to our pioneers, _ and it should be possible to reach the ideal he has set before us. Noble 11. Cozens, I believe, is hardly fair in assuming that “Nor’-Wester’s” letter is merely a sarcastic reference to the present state of the Pali street cemetry, for he appears to have written with all sincerity of purpose. However, he lias only partially answered my question, for I asked, not only for qn ideal at which to aim, but also how tlie work was to be done. Does lie realise that to put into effect such a scheme as outlined would mean no inconsiderable outlay in both money and material? The public would no doubt be interested to know the source from which these are to be derived, considering tlie present depression. It is pleasing to note that a start — though only a start —has been made to put the cemetery in order. Mucli hard labour is still required to remove the 1 noxious growths before we may even commence the work of beautifying. The present “noble band of young men” may quite likely have left the district or • assumed other responsibilities before the task is completed. What organisation is there in the district capable of undertaking the work and handing on the torch of remembrance to those who follow? It has been reported that the present trustees are taking the matter in hand since they have seen the improvement effected by the voluntary work of that “noble band of young men” outside the organisation. May I suggest that their first consideration be to prevent further desecration of this hallowed spot by straying stock from the “King s Acre.” Let there be a quick and complete removal of our “borough’s .eyesore” —those few old stakes -with their rusty wires. Replace the disgraceful fence.—l am, etc.,RESIDENT. Motueka, 14th December.