A MINISTER ON TOUR

Thames Star, Volume LVIII, Issue 18466, 5 December 1917, Page 2

A MINISTER ON TOUR

Ministers' visits are like those of

angels, few and far between. They' aa-e also of the nature of a, comet, or a shooting star, flying through space, and resting nowhere. Sir Joseph Ward's mish: through this district was- very much of this nature. Of course everyone was pleased to see him, and fete him, but all would have liked' to see more of him. However, we must rest satisfied with the goodls the' gods provide, ''and,.be' thankful that in. his bewildering career from (he Bluff to Auckland, back again across country to Napier," and then up the Main Trunk line again before returning to Inveroargill, he

found time to even remember the existence of Thames', much less to make the detour necessary to reach the locality. He has, however, been and gone, heard of and seen, the great advancement of the district, received -numerousi 'deputations, listened with, exainplary patience to a long list of requirements, and made the 'usual' diplomatic replies to his interviewers. Moreover, he has shown that the gift of excellent speech is still his, and his stirring addiressas will not soon be forgotten! Suchl speeches put freisih heart into the people privileged to hear them. Sir Joseph Ward is beginning to show signs of the stress of public life, but hist bonhomie is as- pronounced as ever. May his shadow never grow lese!