THE VALUE OF THE DAY

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 7915, 26 September 1911, Page 6

THE VALUE OF THE DAY

SPEECH BY LORD ISLINGTON. ■ His Excellency the Governor, who was heartily received, voiced what he believed to bo tho common sentiment ol pleasure that from now onwards Dominion Day was always to be regarded as a national holiday for Now Zealand, a day on which those of all ages could share and pay a tribute oi respect to the country of their birth or of their adoption. It would bo hopefully anticipated that as years went by this national day would be regarded as the chief beacon-dav in the history ol the year. It was of advantage to tho country, and would bo helpful to the people, to sot apart one day for rejoicing, a day for national introspection., when partv controversy could bo set on one side and mutual community of interests could bo marked and recorded; a day when young and old might reflect with pride "and gratitude on what had combined to create their nationality. Human energy, combined with lavish gifts of nature, had in seventy years accumulated a history and laid firm a foundation of society of no small account in New Zealand. (Applause.) Dominion Day could bo of value as an inspiration to the people to still furthei the progress of the country. He had had singularly favourable opportunities, during his stay of fifteen months, of seeing the varied ccenic beauties and productive activities of New Zealand. Were ho to attempt to discuss what ho had swn ho would bo wandering beyond the limit proscribed under tho Constitution for a Governor, and presumably his roving eye might soon ho confronted by the familiar notice “Trespassers will bo prosecuted/' (Laughter.)

SOCIAL ORGANISATION. Nothing had impressed him more in New Zealand than the quantity and quality of institutions having for their object, on the one side, the prevention of evil, and on the other side the promotion of social progress. This aspect of national life was of immense importance. Dominion Day gave an opportunity of recognising the devotion and public spirit of those large groups of people who were giving their leisure to that ond.. Dominion Day also gave an opportunity of encouraging those who had refrained from taking part in this work to do so more actively with their fellow citizens in movements which concerned the social, philanthropic and educational welfare of the people. "Without doubt those activities set the seal on a country, and reflected their influence in the strength and patriotism of its people. (Applause.) It was of the utmost importance that a national enthusiasm Should be aroused, based on patriotism and public service, an enthusiasm that stood above party questions.

COMPULSORY MILITARY TRAINING He would like to take the opportunity of offering congratulations to New Zealand and its people on the patriotic response that had been made by all sections of the community to the recently established system, of universal service in the cause of national defence. (Applause.) He thought it might be truly said of those who were to-day occupied in the difficult and responsible task of developing and establishing this scheme, while their work throughout was being characterised by firmness, ' by energy, and by ability that they had equally throughout shown that they in no way failed to succeed in exercising that .forbearance and consideration to all sections who were being asked to undertake that service. By this scheme, New Zealand was extending its national position, and as a Dominion it had added strength and independence by demonstrating that it was henceforth determined to defend itself from aggression, from whatever quarter. (Applause.) The value of the movement was not confined to the military aspect. It would cultivate qualities of manliness, forbearance and good comradeship which would he highly prized in years to come.