PRIME MINISTER

Otago Daily Times, Issue 24255, 25 March 1940, Page 8

PRIME MINISTER

LOSING STRENGTH CONDITION VERY GRAVE , GREATEST ANXIETY FELT (From Our Special Reporter) WELLINGTON, Mar. 25. The gravest anxiety about the condition of the Prime Minister (Mr M. J. Savage) was experienced last night and early this morning. At 3 a.m. it was reported that there was little likelihood of his surviving the night. Two. disquieting bulletins which were issued yesterday prepared the public for the worst. The first announcement, which was made at 3 p.m. stated that Mr Savage was much weaker and that his condition had given rise to the gravest anxiety. Another bulletin issued six hours later reported a steady _ loss of strength and a more critical condition. Although his physical state was so serious, Mr Savage retained a great degree of mental clarity. From the bedroom of his home at Northlands last evening he could see the silver path cast across the harbour by the rising moon, and commented to one of those close to him on the beauty of the scene. The grip of his hand was then firm. It was in August last year that Mr Savage was operated on for abdominal trouble, and it had been apparent for some time that a full recovery was unlikely. It was not until last Monday, however, that the first • bulletins about his health were issued since those immediately succeeding his operation, but the gravity of the terms in which they were coached indicated that his condition was serious. A temporary rally on Friday • and Saturday was followed by severe deterioration yesterday. Members of the Cabinet all remained in Wellington during the week-end and maintained close . touch with the Prime Minister's residence, anxious to learn of any change in his condition. PRAYERS FOR MR SAVAGE (Per United Press Association) . WELLINGTON, Mar. 24. The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Wellington and Metropolitan (Dr O’Shea) asked for the special prayers of the Catholic people to-day for the recovery of Mr Savage, and the Bishops of Auckland. Christchurch, and Dunedin were asked to advise their people accordingly