THAT NAME.

Southland Times, Issue 21090, 23 May 1930, Page 3

THAT NAME.

To the Editor.

Sir, —-With your permission I venture to express an “outside” opinion on the name “Invercargill.” To me it seemed a pleasing, satisfying name when I heard it for the first time (I am ashamed to admit) on my arrival in New Zealand seven months ago. It sounded rich and full—an augury, perhaps, of its destiny. It contrasts favourably with such names as Stockport, Bilston, Coblenz, etc., which are blunt, clumsy and ugly sounds. Apropos of this matter, I would like to quote from a letter which reached me only a week or two ago and which is so apt. It is from a German scholar with an exceptionally wide and critical knowledge of English. He writes from Stuttgart:— " . . . . and besides all, there lies such a spell, such a rough rhythm in the name of Invercargill itself. It is melodious — you could sing it. Does it really look like its name? I am so curious to hear more about it.”

Might I suggest that if any name be changed it be “Southland” ? I have come to know the province and consider it worthy of a more distinguished, individual name. —I am, etc., ' MABEL A. PACKWOOD.