THE OTAGO DAILY TIMES TUESDAY, JUNE 9, 1925. THE GOVERNOR-GENERAL’S VISIT.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19501, 9 June 1925, Page 6

THE OTAGO DAILY TIMES TUESDAY, JUNE 9, 1925. THE GOVERNOR-GENERAL’S VISIT.

Had it not been for the untoward visitation of infantile paralysis, the people of Dunedin and Otago would have had the pleasure some months ago of greeting Sir Charles Fergusson. on his first official visit to this provincial district as Governor-General. The welcome which will bo accorded this afternoon to the eminent soldier who has succeeded an eminent seaman as the King’s representative in New Zealand should, however, lack ntme of the warmth which would have characterised it if circumstances over which there could be no control had permitted the GovernorGeneral to carry out the arrangements that were originally made by him for visiting Otago. The connection of her Excellency, Lady Alice Fergusson, with earlier Now Zealand days, to say nothing of the Governor-General’s connection with earlier days still, lends an engaging intore-st to their present personal association with the country. It is to be admitted that it is difficult, though perhaps it should not be impossible, to avoid a touch of conventionalism in commenting upon the occasion of visits of the representative of the Sovereign. Wo should say, however, that the conventional feature is far less prominent than it was in bygono years. During the last quarter of a century an entirely now spirit of inter-imperial relationship has developed, and this has gradually affected the position of the representatives of the Crown in the dominions. A Governor or Governor-General nowadays is not regarded chiefly as the gracious director of polite ceremonies and duo observances, —a nominal and convenient link between the Horae Country and the colonies. He is the vital symbol of British union and solidarity. If his part in actual politics is less conspicuous than it used to bo, this is mainly duo to the unerring tact shown during recent years alike by governors and statesmen. In New Zealand for a very long time there has been no serious friction between respom sible politicians and representatives of the Crown. Things were different at certain periods of last century. Sir Charles Fergusson has entered upon a smooth and quiet heritage, and wo do not doubt that his known qualities of sagacity and geniality will preserve him from difficulties. As regards this first visit to Dunedin, we can only give expression to the community’s sentiment of respectful welcome. It is pleasant to hope that it is a visit preluding, as there is every reason to hope and believe, a longer stay in this city when the New Zealand and South Seas Exhibition is a definite achievement. Already their Excellencies, visiting Logan Park, will realise that it is no mean dr insignificant display that they will bo invited to honour by their patronage and attendance some months hence.