The Primate.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 6654, 20 September 1889, Page 3

The Primate.

Bishop Haspee's resignation is an erenfc which, though chiefly concerning the denomination lie has done so much for, has the widest general interest. It is the last act of a public life of great usefulness and the most shining example. The State is indebted to the good Bishop for the vast . number of good citizens who have been formed directly and indirectly by his influence. His many virtues, his unselfish devotion to his high calling, his unceasing energy, his unvarying peacef nlnesa in all things so worthy of the great Master of all Christians, his punctuality, modesty, aad kindness of heart — all these have earned for him the respect of men who have never set foot inside any of the many churches he has helped so efficiently to establish. In the early days he journeyed among hardships and dangers j in his old age no weather stopped him from carrying the blessings of religion to distant congregations. Wherever he went, there was reapect for that venerable presence, attention for the earnest old voice.love forthe beautiful, simple, upright character. His own people are full of memories of his intimate relations with them. At every stage of life, the cradle, the school, the Church, the Synod, the deathbed and the grave, he has left his imprint.' Outeide the limits of his own, the world Bhowed its appieoiation on the Jubilee j Day. When the old man was recognised in the procession, no cheeks were 60 fervent or so numerous as those which he so modestly acknowledged. His resignation is given in; his years are tottering to their peaceful close; his life chines brightest among all his contemporaries, not because he has held a high | sacred office, but because his beautiful life | has been in accordance with the highest Christian ideal. When he crosses the unknown river, it will be truly said of him, and felt about him, that "'the good men do lives after them."