FAITHFUL UNTO DEATH

Te Awamutu Courier, Volume 52, Issue 3756, 15 May 1936, Page 9

FAITHFUL UNTO DEATH

From far-off Japan comes the touching story of a dog whose death is mourned by a nation. Hachiko belonged to Dr Hildesaburo Ueno, of Tokio. Every morning he went with his master to the station, where the doctor caught his train for the city. Every evening he was at the station, patiently waiting for the train that brought his master back to him.

They understood each other, these two.

Eleven years ago Dr Ueno died, and was buried in the local cemetery. But each day, morning and evening, Hachiko was at the station to meet the master who never came. Without fail, day in, day out, he was at his post. People could tell the time when they heard his feet pattering up the station road.

The story of devotion became a legend in Japan. He was featured in school books; he appeared on the screen. About a year ago the townspeople erected a bronze statue of him outside the station where he kept his vigil. But one day Hachiko did not come to the station. A search was made, and he was found lying ill some distance away. Five veterinary surgeons fought for his life. But in vain.

He was buried in a little grave at the side of his master. Sixteen priests officiated at the funeral, which was conducted according to the Buddhist rites. Letters and telegrams poured in from all parts of Japan. Friends sent Hachiko 25 wreaths and 200 bunches of flowers. Among the mourners at the grave was Dr Ueno’s widow.

Now the faithful dog has found happiness with his master in the happy hunting grounds.