CHILDREN ADMIRE LIFE* BOATMEN

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXVI, 1 September 1934, Page 4

CHILDREN ADMIRE LIFE* BOATMEN

“He sneeds forth on bis errand .of merev with as much hearty satisfaction as if he were hasting to his bridal ceremony.” Could a testimonial to a man s readiness to save life at sea—in this case a life-boatman —be more aptly expressed than bv the child who wrote that sentence. Children in 1500 schools were askpd to write an essay on the tbesi®. “Why I admire the life-boat-man.” Even to read about bis deeds makes a child’s heart “drum against niv ribs with wonder and with praise.” Another, also physically affected, says that her “spine tingles and my hair stands on end.” “O to be in his retinue!” exclaims another. with thoughts of glory. “He risks his life to the nearest inch,” and he is worthy of all praise for his “stickability.” “T do not think that an avalanche could hurt him ; be is as bard as a cement wall.” And “even when snoring and dreaming,” be must be ready for action. “He expects no reward, and if be loses his life expects no high-class funeral.” Creature comforts are not forgotten. “When be comes home from a wreck all wet and cold bis wife has a great big fire and a hot cup of tea to heat him up.”