THE SCENE HAS CHANGED

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 8680, 13 March 1914, Page 4

THE SCENE HAS CHANGED

It is profitless to point out the inconsistencies of a party that, through one of its illustrious leaders, has laid down tho axiom that consistency is the refuge of fools. Nevertheless, very few years have passed since Mr Massey and the apostles of .superior morality were denouncing as election bribes the 5 practice of the Liberals in promising roads and bridges in remote districts. But what is happening now? Whether at Picton, or Opotiki, cr Hastings, or Pukekohs—-it does not matter where—Mr Massey and his Ministers are leaving behind them a trail of promises of roads and bridges, and even branch railways, though tiro construction of two notable trunk lines has been stopped. The only Minister who is not making these promises, which have hitherto stood_ for bribes, is the Hon. W. Fraser, Minister for Public Works, and he happens to be the only one who is entitled to make them. Of course, it is easy to understand that what, was political profligacy on the part of the abandoned Liberals becomes enterprising concern for the progress of the backblocks when it is perpetrated by tho gentlemen of superior morality who stylo themselves “Reformers.” It makes, all the difference the way you look at it. And then these banquets! How Mr Massey and his envious following were accustomed, in the days when they froze in the cold shades of Opposition, to denounce the Liberals for touring and junketing instea’d of staying in'Wellington and attending to the business of the country. But what about the banqueting and junketing now? There are half-a-dozen champagne feasts, in divers parts of the country, every night of the week. AVe do not blame the “Reform” Ministers. On the contrary, we congratulate them on the occasions that aro being afforded' them of making up for lost time ’ and opportunity.. -Of course, these celebrations take on a different complexion now that they are being enjoyed by the exemplary “Reformers.” Suddenly, they have becomo graceful and well-merited recognitions of administrative capacity and superiority. But when Ministers are rejoicing at the plumpness of the turkey, and tho delicacy of -the pate do foie gras, and reaching gaily for the magnum of champagne, wo wonder whether there is never .a pricking of conscience, or whether the incriminating blush does not occasionally assert itself on the countenances that, in the days now happily forgotten, were accustomed to wear that expression of outraged virtuous indignation. But why wonder? “Reform” does not blush easily.