"AN ESTEEMED CHIEF."

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 19986, 30 June 1928, Page 12

"AN ESTEEMED CHIEF."

CUSTOMS OFFICER RETIRES.

FAREWELL TO - MR. A. V. PENN.

" It is not with regret but with many pleasant recollections that I sever my connection with the department," said Mr. A. V. Perm, collector of customs at Auckland, in bidding official farewell to the customs-house staff at an enthusiastic presentation ceremony yesterday afternoon. Mr. Penn will retire to-day after 44 years in the department, the last 19 being in Auckland and the last three as collector.

Testimony to the high and affectionate regard in which Mr. Penn was held by his office associates was given by representative speakers. Mr. T. C. Rowe, sub-collector of customs, who presided over i largo attendance, voiced the general sentiment when he-said: "We keenly feel this parting with our esteemed chief, who has endeared himself to every member of the staff."

Tributes to Mr. Penn's unfailing tact, conscientious work and ready sympathy wore also paid by Mr. G. H. Comes, assistant sub-collector, Mr. W. H. Graham, senior examining officer, Mr. W. D. Grant, boarding inspector, Mr. S. E. Harrop, first clerk, Mr. J. G. Rowe, head locker, Mr. J. P. Ridings, former collectoi at Auckland, arid Mr. E. W. Carter, former sub-collector.

A rolled-top writing desk, suitably inscribed, was then presented to Mr. Penn, with the accompanying gift of a handbag for Mrs. Penn. Replying in reminiscent vein, Mr. Penn recounted some of tho lighter incidents connected with the earlier days of his service, and said the business at the port of Auckland had advanced at an astonishing rale. Among several letters of good wishes received in the last few days was one from the Comptroller of Customs, expressing tho Government's appreciation of his services. " I am proud of that letter, and I hope the staff will he, too," he added Concluding, Mr. Penn returned thanks for kindly references to Mrs. Penn Mr. Penn was enthusiastically cheered, the gathering singing, "For He's a Jolly Good Fellow."