The Daily News WEDNESDAY, JULY 9, 1930. A LEADER PASSES.

Taranaki Daily News, 9 July 1930, Page 8

The Daily News WEDNESDAY, JULY 9, 1930. A LEADER PASSES.

In all minds the first thought associated with the news of Sir Joseph Ward’s death is one of very real regret. It is not a case in which the sudden ending of a life of service to the community comes as a shock—that was the experience when Sir Joseph’s great chief passed away a quarter of a century ago—but the natural sorrow felt by all who knew Sir Joseph Ward and his work is intensified by the feeling that in the past year or two his high sense of public duty persuaded him to sacrifice what might have been a' long period of happy leisure. If there were two characteristics that were emphasised more than others during his long career in public life they were Sir Joseph’s sincere devotion to duty and unfailing optimism. These fine characteristics were never more prominin ent than in the decision that he made less than two years ago to lead the United Party in its election campaign. Everyone realises now that before the election of 1928 S’u- Joseph must have drawn very heavily upon such reserve of strength as he possessed, yet his indomitable spirit came to his aid and enabled hint to shoulder the still greater burden of responsibility imposed upon him as the result of the poll, ’flint spirit enabled him to struggle for months against severe illness, and so great was his optimism that it was not until about two months ago he decided to relinquish the office of Prime Minister. When the news of his retirement was announced the wish expressed everywhere was that relief from the cares of office might be the means of restoring his health, and to-day the universal feeling is deep regret that the wish has not been fulfilled. Yet those who mourn must find comfort in the knowledge that Sir Joseph Ward was able to serve his day and generation far more fully and effectively than many men who have devoted their talents to public life. Opinions may differ as to the exact place to be assigned to this conspicuous figure among the leaders of a young nation, but there can be no question as to the whole-heartedness of his public service. lie was a selfmade man, and the qualities that enabled him to rise to the highest pinnacle of public life were worthily utilised for the advancement of New Zealand and the welfare of the British Empire. When he resigned the office of Prime Minister it was well known that his heart was still throbbing with the earnest desire to be of use to the fair country in whose affairs he had taken such a large : share of untiring and useful work. Even the most bitter of his political opponents can not'refrain from giving him the highest praise for the signal ability, initiative and driving force that characterised his public life. His career must remain an object lesson and an incentive to others to equip themselves for a life of service, and to acquire that true spirit of service which acts as an impelling force to carry into practice all that makes for nobility of purpose and a patriotism worthy of the name. Like many other leaders, Sir Joseph' had his full share of fluctuating fortunes, yet throughout all reverses his courage never flagged, nor did he ever doubt that the sun of good fortune would again shine. Elsewhere in this issue will be found details of his life’s work for the country and the Empire that honour his memory and the services he rendered —services that were worthily recognised and rewarded by the Head of the Empire on more than one occasion, and will ever be remembered by his country. From telegraph messenger to Privy Councillor is a long step, and Jhroug-hout his long active, useful life he showed what can be ac- , complislied where the will and ability are associated with determination and foresight. To attempt to do justice to such a remarkable man in the short space available in this column would be impossible. That he was an important factor in raising the • status of the self-governing Dominions to that of equality and partnership with the Mother Country is beyond dispute. In this country he proved himself a truly great Postmaster-General, and as a Minister of Finance he stood head and shoulders above his contemporaries. In the present time of temporary depression it should be remembered with gratitude . to what extent Sir Joseph helped forward the welfare of the country in the past, and thereby enabled it to stand the stress of adverse circumstances. In the message announcing his retirement, barely seven weeks ago, Sir Joseph included a passage which will bear repetiion now: “I have seen the de-

velopment of the Dominion proceed in a truly wonderful manner. It is to-day a legitimately proud claim for one to call himself a New Zealander, and 'it will be for future generations to see that they guard jealously the heritage which will be theirs.” New Zealand can best pay tribute to the memory of a fine citizen in its care of the heritage which owes so much to his unselfish service.