HOPES FOR PEACE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23222, 16 December 1938, Page 13

HOPES FOR PEACE

UNITY OF PURPOSE ADDRESS BY THE MAYOR " There can be no question but that one of the greatest blessings mankind can enjoy is that condition of affairs which ensures uninterrupted peace and goodwill," said the Mayor of Auckland, Sir Ernest Davis, in conveying seasonal greetings to members of the City Council at a special meeting yesterday. " Clouds of grave uncertainty still overshadow the international horizon, and our hopes, I am sure, are concentrated in the belief that these will be dispelled in the near future and that common sense and sanity will regain their place in the councils of the nations," Sir Ernest continued. " The international situation as it exists at the moment makes it all the more imperative that we in New Zealand should sink our internal differences and stand firm for the maintenance of the British democracy which is so dear to all o£ us. " lx>ng faces, croaking voices, and panic-stricken thoughts regarding the disposition of capital funds, will get us nowhere," he said. "Whatever may be our political opinions, it is our duty as New Zealanders to assist and not hinder the national administration of the day, and to renew our determination to serve to the fullest extent of our ability this beautiful country our pioneer forelathers gave to us.

"During the pas,t week or so there lias been in certain quarters a tendency to pessimism, which I think a dispassionate analysis of the facts, accompanied by a reffirmation of faith in New Zealand's future, would quickly change to a wave of healthy optimism."