PROFESSOR TUCKER'S APPOINTMENT.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXII, Issue 7341, 30 May 1885, Page 3

PROFESSOR TUCKER'S APPOINTMENT.

: TO MM EDITOE. : . Sib, —You deserve the thanks of the com-, munity for your very able defence of Professor Tucker insist certain ill-natured remarks that have bean levelled against him. These remarks hissa had so much ot venomous sting behind them—notably when referring to the Professor's abilities and motives—that it is almost impossible to resist the conclusion that there was personal animosity at work. « As 60 the Professor himself, those who know " him beat roll be ready to bear witness that he has proved himself to be not only a com* patent teacher, bat also a man always willing to aid the social and educational interests of the people. It may be safely said that, even if a man of . equal attainments. were obtained next week, none could be found who would discharge hie duties more satis- - factorily. The comparison drawn between Professor Tucker and Professor Aldis is an unfortunate one ; for it must be remembered that they are, as it were, specialists in their particular branches; but, independently of this consideration, it is a pity that an odious ' comparison should, have been drawn.—l am, eta, *.-W. Qunimoa. TO THE EDITOR. }i ; Sib, —I think the public will demur to any special code of morals being laid down for this ' case. The whole question turns upon the terms of the appointment. If those terms are for a speoifio period of five yean, and (for. this is the kernel of the matter) Professor Tucker could have objected to thai term being shortened, then I think any action on the part of either of the contracting parties whereby the five years' liability . is sought to be evaded without the foil consent; of the other side being first obtained is dearly improper. If, however, an offer of a superior appointment (unsolicited or canvassed for) , hag been made to Professor Tucker, then I think the Council, or other authority, should favourably consider how far its duty to the public will allow i* to assist in the promotion of that gentleman's interest! and desires. I shall be much mistaken if this simple view of the mutual obligation, ie not endorsed by the other members of the Professorial Board.— am, &c, . , n , Fair Plat.