HON. C. A. C. HARDY, M.L.C.

New Zealand Times, Volume XLIX, Issue 11302, 30 August 1922, Page 4

HON. C. A. C. HARDY, M.L.C.

Sharp grief will he very generally felt when it is known that Mr Hardy died yesterday in Wellington. He was one of the best-known men in his district of Rakaia (Canterbury), and had been most popular for many years. His cheery face and kindly, genial manner will be greatly missed all over the countryside. The same will be the case in Parliamentary circles, in which he had won great esteem and friendly affection during a service of twenty-one years. He represented Selwyn in the House of Representatives from 1899 to 1911, and he was a member of the Legislative Council from 1913 (June 26th) to the day of his death. A strong party man, he made his mark in the House of Representatives very quickly, and he made friends as quickly, thanks to his warm heart and kindly ways, and pleasant Irish speech. For eome years he was one of the Whips of his party, and very energetic was, and scrupulously fair, in all the things of his office. But nobody ever had occasion to think about his politics, for he had a kindly word always for everybody, and his courtesy in debate, as well as in all friendly lobby discussions, was unfailing. A thousand stories could be told of his warm kindliness, ready sympathy, and quaint humour, qualities which endeared him to all without impairing his reputation as a staunch supporter of his political ideals. Such was the impression he left behind him in the House of Representatives and took with him to the Council, where he made friends just as he had done in “another place.” Both Houses deeply regret his passing. He was a staunch Churchman; his delight was hospitality to his many friends; his hobby was flowers, his beautiful garden at his house being well known for miles around, and famous. He did good generously, with the knowledge of few, and wherever ho went he had the esteem and friendly liking of all. Pub-lic-spirited he was eminently, and his public sorvico in many capacities was widely recognised. His domestic life was happy, and for the empty place ho has left in his home his people will have a sympathy wide and deep.