TRIBUTE TO PIONEER

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 86, Issue 93, 22 April 1942, Page 4

TRIBUTE TO PIONEER

MR. GREGOR McGREGOR A tribute in verse to the memory of Mr. Gregor McGregor was forwarded to the “Chronicle” by Miss Nancy M. Bruce, of Hatrick Street, Wanganui, who writes. ”1 should like to offer these lew words to the memory of -sne who was a true pioneer and who had the interests of our city and district vers ciosely at heart.” The verse, which pays tubule to Mr. MfGregor’.s keen interest in New Zealand flora and fauna, is as follows: Gone is the grand old man who trod so often The hills and valleys of the river land, Who knew each mood of this deep shining water. Far up the bush-clad banks, where tall trees standHear now the bellbirds’ silver chimes outflung— His requiem—as he would want it sung. Ring softly, bells of Maoriland, and tell The listening bushland that its friend has won Surcease from pain, a deep and perfect peace, Sweet rest beyond a long race, proudly run. Here, where the willows dip along the the shore, His memory shall live for evermore. —M. M. Bruce.