DEPARTING GERMAN CONSULS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23940, 16 October 1939, Page 8

DEPARTING GERMAN CONSULS

CONTRAST IN ATTITUDES MR E. RAMM’S “ ORATION ” (From Our Own Correspondent; SYDNEY, Oct. 2. Two German Consular officials, leaving Sydney for the neutral haven of Batavia, gave contrasting farewell messages—one full of regret at leaving Australia in such circumstances as the present; the other delivering his message in German at top spg.ed with all the bombastic manner of the Nazi diplomat. The “ nice ” farewell was that of Dr W. D. Hoops, the German Vice-consul here. He said he left Sydney “with a lump in his throat. Much happier would I have been if 1 had been able to leave in brighter circumstances," he said. “ I have enjoyed my stay in Australia, and I appreciate the kindness and courtesy I met everywhere. Since the outbreak of war I have not met any enmity anywhere from Australians, and I am sorry that I have not been able to say good-bye to my friends. “As I have been here for two years, I have obtained quite a good understanding of the Australian mentality. I love their openness and friendliness. Always I have taken a, keen interest in tennis matches, swimming, and surfing, and in this way I have met many of your people in excellent outdoor life.' Your fortunate climate, your sport, and open-air life foster the splendid comradeship that you have." Dr Hoops looked across Sydney Harbour from the deck of Hie liner on which he was being interviewed, and said, rather sadly, that perhaps he would not see it again. It was hard to tell what the future held. He could not discuss the war, for politics and the like were forbidden.

The other departing official was Mr E. Ramm, German Consular-general in New Zealand. He speaks perfect English, but after greeting reporters seeking an interview, he burst into German. At his first pause, he was asked for a translation. He replied: “My message is ——.” Then he broke Into German again and kept on speaking after the final “airashore” gong had sounded and the reporters, had made for the gangway. The liner took the last of German Consulate officials from Australia and New Zealand. After reaching Batavia, they will await instructions from the German Government. .