MASTERTON'S NEW POST OFFICE

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XVI, Issue 6546, 10 May 1900, Page 2

MASTERTON'S NEW POST OFFICE

THE FORMAL OPENING. A RED LETTER DAY, Maslcrton's primal idea of architecture was " Tho House that Jack Built" in the early sixties, and very proud was Maslorton then of tho llouso, and also of Jack. Hut Mastcrton's litial conception of architecture is" The Homo that Coradine and Whittaker built" for Her Majesty's mail and telegraph services and still prouder is Masterton of the latter. Young and untravellcd Mastertonians, indeed, who have hoard of St. Paul's Cathedral nnd Westminster Abbey consider that there may bo something in these neiv structures if they are at nil like their new Post Office, hut they have llieir doubts about London being equally up-to-date I

Tho vondor to many is, how this brave now building—like tlio lly in amber—came here, and on this paint tho Member for Masterton could, if lie chose, say a good deal. Two years ago we, and others, grumbled at the ancient and dilapidated building in which lettors, stamps, and telegrams appeared to be hopelessly mixed up, and the public convenience "cribbed, eabinned and confined," but it was tho Member for Masterton who took the PostmasterGeneral by the button-hole and showed him what a line Town Hall wo had built, and pointed out to him Hut the Government possessed tho finest site in Masterton and the worst building. At last the Postmaster-General gave a half-promise, and this was speedily converted by our Member into a whole one.

The battle really only commenced at Ihis point. In the Public Works Office there is some splendid architect, who objects to spoiling a line site with a poor building, nnd it was lie who designed the Masterton Post Office, as it appears at present. But when the frugal-minded Postmastcr-Geueral saw the plan, he said: "It will cost too much, a onestorey building will do;" and so tho Public Works Office prepared a cheap and nasty plan. But the Member for Masterton, when he saw this, put his foot down, and simply said he would not have it. Greek met Greek, and there came the tug-of-war. The Postmaster-General at length conceded the two-storey point, crossing out the tower, The Member for Masterton would not, howeyer, give way. He stood by the lower, a very Horatio, and battled for it till the PostmasterGeneral agreed to call for tenders on the original and perfect plan, upon which our representative made his stand from the lirst, Mr A. W. Hogg was quilo right iu insisting upon a proper building, and taking no other. The Irade and progress of the town justified a liberal expenditure, and the future requirements made any less-pretentious building a false economy. The present structure will, no doubt, have to accommodate the public services for tho next fifty years. To have built on a smaller scale, and then patched pieces on every fcwycars, would have been an absurdity. As stilted above, tenders were called, that of Messrs Coradine and Whittaker being accepted, and at the end of last June the work was commenced, and day by day we have watched the pile grow. At the end of April the work was completed, as far as the contractors were concerned, and since then the litling-up and preparations for opening to the public havo been proceeding, under the experienced and watchful eye of Mr Inspector T.liosc. Yesterday the formal opening wilh due llourUi of trumpets took place—but of that auon. The building itself may be termed—by a stretch of imagination—of the Queen Aune type, or at anyrate related to the designs of the architects who nourished in that late lamented lady's reign. It presents a solid and imposing appearance, and sets a splendid example for the town toliye up to. Its walls are of red pressed bricks, black pointed, wilh cement facing and enrichments, The frontage to Queenstreet is 76ft. and to Hall-street 87ft. From the footpath to the highest platform of ihe lower tho building rises to a height of 00ft., and above this tho iron railing and flagstaff point skyward another '2lft, making 87ft in all to tho truck of the flag-pole. The tower is a work of nrt with ils ornamental cement embrasures, four openings being lefteach 4ft. Oin. in diameter—for clockfaces, so that he who runs may read Ihe hour from any quaiter of the town. Sixteen louvres will allow the striking of the clock to pour forth, a thick concrete floor under the clock-room preventing sound (ravelling down into the building.

On the two fronts there arc tliivly windows, so that the light is good in every corner. The main entrance at the corner of Queen-street-, is plain, but neat and well-finished, handsome wrought-iron gales (made by the Masterton Implement Co., under Mr A. Eraser's personal supei vision), barring the way alter office hours. The public offico is lirst reached, whero telegrams are handed in, and ordinary business is transacted. It is 18 x 13ft,, beautifully finished in every detail, heart of limu showing prominently, while kauri is used for counters, desks, etc, The ceiliug here—and throughout the building—is corrugated iron, and looks really well. Beyond tho public office, further along the Hall-street Frontage, is tho Money Order office, 10 x 12ft, and a comfortable apartment—the Postmaster's room, where Mr W. H. Nicholls will control the whole—--12 x 13ft., with strong-room at the rear. Just inside tho public office, under a stairway, is the Telephone Bureau, which ought to prove useful, Passing along the Queen-street frontage, one reaclics another arched entrance to ihe postal boxes, a door at the extreme south end, leading lo tho private box lobby, where neat rows of numbered kauri letter-boxes stand. Behind is the mail-room, a splendid apartment, 30ft. 9in. x 2i)ft. Gin., just about double the size of the mail-room in the old building. TbcTelephoneEoom—very conveniently fitted—is 14ft. x 10ft. 2in. At ihe Hallstreet end of the main building, au arched right-of-way, 12ft. wide, connects wilh a one-storey building, presided over by Lineman Jackson, whose battery-room and workshop are here placed, A fuel shed aud other offices arc attached, and water is supplied from three four-hundred gallon tanks, On the upper floor there are seven roomy offices; but exactly how they will be used has not been decided,

The work throughout is exceedingly well done and reflects Ihe very highest credit 011 Messrs Coradine aud Whittaker, aud their excellent stall Mr D, Pickering supervised the plumbing—a a large item in the contract—Mr J. ltose, acting as Clerk of Works. Mr Campbell, Government Architect, and, in fact, all tho officials who have seen tho building speak most highly of Ihe faithful manner in which the work has been done to tho smallest detail. As evidence that tho building was really needed we may bo pardoned for reproducing some figures we previously published, showing tlie great growth of business done by the Masterton Post Office. In ihe year 1850 Masterton was contented—yen, pleased aud proud to possess a weekly mail service, but now we find instead of a weekly bag being received aud despatched the mail brauch now disposes of forty-eight, mails and nine private bags daily, The total number of letters, etc., handled in tho course of a year is:— Letters. Post Cnrd-. Books. Newspapers. Posted 267,12-1 10,046 33,127 13M07 Delivered 272,441 14,001 127,1>59 87,023 Totals 539,5*53 24,947 21ti,056 225,325 The Telegraph branch of the office does proportionately as largo a business, the forwarded telegrams in the course of a year being 23,531, and Ihe received telegrams 28,872; in addition lo which 11,053 telegrams are transmitted to and from other olliccs in Ihe district. Hnw this compares with the telegrams for the year 1809-70 (lie residents of Masterton will bo best able to judge when it is stated that the total number of tolegrams forwarded for that period was 335, or about one for every working day,

In making any comparison' wilh the early years of the Masterton offico it should bo remembered that in placo of performing the simple despatch and receipt of letters and telegrams and transacting money-order and savings-bank business, the office now acts as Agent for tho Government Life Insurance 'Department, collects land and iucomo tax, Customs duty on parcels, issues game licences, collects live stock fees, machinery fees, receives money for investment in New Zealand Consols, receives and pays money on behalf of tho Public Trustee and Ihe Advonces lo Settlers' Oflico, pays money on behalf of the Treasury, and performs many other services of like nature, such as the payment of old age pensions, etc,, as welUs

carrying on the post and telegraph work proper. r Tltß AFTKBNOON CEHBMONV. Of course, altor obtaining such a lino building, it was only proper that it should bo opened wilh due ceremony, and with that end in view, Mr A. W. Hogg invited members of Cabinet and Departmental heads to tako a holiday jaunt to Maslerloo, and join in tho sport. /VI first it was thought that at least four oE Her Majesty's Ministers would have f been present, but the deeply regretted ill-health of the J ton. Mr Seddon upset arrangements, and by the mid(Uy train the Hon. W. C. Walkor, as sole representative of the Cabinet, arrived. Ho was accompanied by the Secretary of the l'ost Office IMt W. Gray), tho Inspector (Mr T.®), tho Government Architect (Mr J, CSnpbell), Mr Amclius M. Smith and Mr J. ,K. Logan (Superintendent of Telegraphs). Mr and Mrs A. W. Hogg, Mr J. T. M. Hornsby and Mr C. A. Pownall (Mayor of Masterton) met (lie visitors at the railway stntion on the arrival of the train, and accompanied them to Mr M. -< C. O'G'onnell's Club Kotol, where lunch was served.

In the afternoon, a large crowd assembled at tho Queen-street entrance, the weather having cleared up. In opening proceedings at 2.15 p.m., Mr Hogg, who was greeted with applause, addressed lns> audience as "Ladies and gentlemen, fellow citizens and fcllow-eolonists." He said lie wished, before the formal ceremony of opening the now building to the public, to make a few introductory remarks. Ho dill not intend to inflict a lengthy speech upon them, as there were others besides himself who would have the pleasure of addressing them. In the lirst place lie had to apologise for tho absence of several persons, who would very much . have liked to have been present jvith them on the present auspicious occasion. He would giye the pride of placo to the Clerk of tho Weather, Captain EiUMf He (the speaker) felt satisfied thalMjtain Edwinmusthave been under the mistaken impression that it was a volunteer review which was to liayo taken place that afternoon, instead of the public opening of Masterton's new Post Office, Under that impression, probably, the Captain had ordered a plentiful supply of rain, and his instructions had been faithfully carried out. He had evidently forgot the ticket, but 011 matters being represented to him he appeared to be desirous of making amends as far a 9 possible, and tho weather had improved.*"' Tho clouds seemed disposed to roll away, aud the sun to be trying to break through them, and so brighten up, as far r as possible, the auspicious celebration which tliey had assembled to witness and take part in, Tho next apology was one which would cause regret to them all, it was the uuavoidable absence of the Premier, the Eight Hon Air Seddon, who had fuliy intended to havo been present with them. The telegram stated that Mr SedJon greatly regretted that the state of his health prevented his carrying out his original intention. Ho had looked forward wilh very much pleasure to assist in the celebratioff, and his inability to come was a great disappointment to himself, aud ho (Mr UK) was sure it was also a great disappoi wKt to those now assembled together fir a purpose of local public importance. Ho ■ (Mr Seddon) apologised to them for ' his unavoidable absence, aud ho sent them his very best wishes on the occasion. Mr Hogg said he had wired tho Premier, in receipt of that telegram, urging him to attend if ho possibly could; but a rcp'y had come that tho pro3ent state of his health absolutely prevented biin attending a celebration from which he ivould have derived so great pleasure. There was alsoau apology from tho Hon. J. G. Ward, Minister of Eailways, who had found it impossible to he present at the present gathering, but who wilh 1 Mrs Ward would arrive from Wellington by the evening train, and would be' honoured guests at the two functions to take place subsequently, inconucction ; with the same celebration. They doubti less were aware that, in consequence of x Mr Seddon's very precarious health, ho was going away for a respite from . official responsibilities for a period of some weeks, during which the Hon. J, G. Ward would be Acting-Premier, and ■ they could understand that a gooinnany . matters of considerable importanejdktd to be arranged, which left Mr very little time for anything else. Mr Seddon had said in his telegram that he would advise other Ministers of tho ; celebration taking place, and 110 (the Premier) had hoped some of them would be able to be present. But as it had i unfortunately happened, owing to tho illness both of tho Premier and the ; Minister of Lands, and the projected . early departure and extended absence . from the Colony of the former, it was i difficult for cither of the oilier members of the Cabinet t(f get away. Mr Hogg here said that ho i had some information to communicate i which, lie was sure, would be a matter ; for rejoicing throughout the district. 1 That was that the Government had api proved of the purchase of the Langdale • Estate at Te Nui, which was the first . estate in this part of the country to be ! cut up for purposes of settlement, and which would, in course of lime, support - a numerous and thriving population. , (Cheers). It had long been admitted that , this part of the North Island had been , suffering for want of an industrial popu- , laliou; but now, when large estates were ; being cut up into small holdings, to be [ occupied as dairy farms, etc., 0; rapid : increase in the population might le ex- ; pected to follow in course of time, \ffith x , the success that would attend tliMu. . division, the purchase of other esfatetor , tho same purpose would follow in due . course. Ho would like to have had tho , Hon. Hall-Jones with them 011 tho pre--1 seut occasion, but he also had to senl , an apology for his unavoidable absence, r He also had important Cabinet matters to . attend to, in view of the Premier's absence . atau early date. He had sent a telegram . regretting his inability to bo present : and assist in the formal completion of I sucli an important undertaking, and • congratulated the districtonthe pregress , it had made, aud was making, and of the » importanco it was attaining asacommu- , nity. He hoped they would havo better - weather than they were then having in . Wellington. Putif unable to be present . 1 himself, Mr Hull-Jones said he was * . sending agood the Hon. .W. C. Walker, and he hoped they would ! have a most successful rolebralion, An i apology had also been received from Mr ; O'Mcara, M.H.E.forPahiatua, who also 1 regretledhis inability to attend. It would 1 only bo necessary-for him (Mr Hogg) to - refer very briefly to the history of former . post offices in Maslorton. The district had improved most wonderfully since ' the first post office was established*there, ; nearly half a century ago, as it was in . 1856 that the mail service was extended , from Groylown to Masterton, JSh 1 mails were then carried by tho.iflw , and ho was under the impressionist the police must have been rather a slow , going body of men in those days, as the Superintendent had said that he thought * tho duty would provo beneficial, • in giving them an opportunity to go about among tho community and get more iu louch with tho settlers. ■ The police then carried the mails ■ on their backs, so that they could not hayo : been very bulky. The Forty-mile Bush, : now one of the most progressive and ; prosperous parts of tho North Aland; 1 was then practically unknown, and did ■ uot even havo a bridle-track througlul; ; and the settlers were agitating for iSe 1 construction of a bridle-track through I tho Forty-mile JJu>h and on to Napier. . Masterton's first postmaster was Mr ■ Henry Bannister, that was in 1858, and he had been postmaster for a period of twelve years. The town was then very, k • small indeed, There was a small courthouse, with a lean-to at the back, which was Masterton's first Post Office. Ho was just then , reminded that the same old lean-to was , still iu existence, and formed a portion of j tho Druids' Hall. To show whaUrcat changes had taken place, lie migfllate that at that lime, 1858, there was only ono mail sent away from Masterton each week, Now there were fifty mails sent away every week day, the postal revenue representing £3OOO, The first telegram was sent from Masterton in 1868, that was thirty-two years ago, and there were 335 messages sent during tho first year Ihe offico was open, Would tliev be surprised to learn that some >- 2400 were being yearly sent away at the present lime, Tho old Post Office which mado way for the present structaVe, was erected in July, 1870, by Mr Eobert Donald, at a cost of £721. The present splendid building, which was built by Messrs Coradine and Whittaker, was erected at a cost of £3183. Ho need not refer to tho greatly improved quality of tho postal and telegraph accommodation in the new building, which they wouldhave tho opportunity of inspecting thatafternoon, after it had been formally opened. The former Post Office had been no credit to Masterton, but was reminded of Te Whiti's famous saying about the potato not yet being cooked, Although he felt that their old Posj " r Office WBS no credit to their

also felt tbat Masterlon was not ' ripe,' «*for a now building such as ho wished, and hoped to seo built. While no kept urging tho Government to put up a decent building, the town was gelling good buildings put up, as an earnest of tho faith of tho townspeople in Masterton. He thought it a groat shame to see such a miserable building on the best corner in the town, on which he wished to see erected a building worthy of the district, and worthy of the community. Tho first evidence ot the faith of the townspeople in tho district, and of their desire for progress, was the erection of the Town Hall, or Theatre, or Opera House, by whatever name it might bo called. .*lt was built for the people, by the licople, and with the people's money. «it was a building of which any inland own might bo proud. _ It served to direct the atlcution of Ministers to the dilapidated old lookery which was answering tho purpose of a Post Olhco; and at lust they hud to acknowledge that a better building must be erected. Tho first designs which were prepared, tho Premier considered 100 expensive, and others less elaborate were prepared instead. The modified plans were those of one-storey, but ho (Mr Hogg) strongly protested against n onestorey building being placed on tlml "comer. The consequence was that they had to put up i* ill) their old wooden box , a little longer. Then, by-.aud-by, another design was prepared, and, alter some delay, it was finally approved. The;' would admit that it reflected very creditably on Mr Campbell, the Government architect. Ho hoped there would be many more buildings of the same high class of architecture erected by the Government in other parts of the Colony, by-aud-by. The new building would soon be formally opoucd by llio Hon Mr Walker, and then they would be ablotoinspcct the interior for themselves, ile might tell them that only tho very best of everything had been used in itl —tho best concrete, the best ■wricks, and tho best limber. Everything of the best had been procured by the contractors, and llio grain of the timber was vastly superior to anything which the painter's brush could produce or imitate. The whole building was a credit and an advertisement to tho contractors. The old Post Ollico had been nine months getting built, while llio splendid building in front of them had been built in five month?. In that time had been erected a structure which would always be an ornatnent to AlnsteriDii. Tho view from llio tower was simply magnificent, and tho landscapo was so lovely as to make people more attached to the town limn lliey ever had been before. Few, in fact, had any idea what a beauty spot Mastcrton was till lliey went Up to that high elevation, and saw the lovely panorama spread out benealh them. Ho now proposed to call for three hearty cheers for several different persons. First of nil three cheers for the Premier and his colleagues, for having erected such a magnificent building. Then cheers wero lustily given, in succession, in response to Mr Hoggs appeal, for, respectively, Mr Campbell, tho Government Architect ; tho contractors, Messrs Coradino nnd the Clerk of Works, Mr BKosc, (between whom and the contractors, said Mr Hogg, there had not been a single unpleasant word, during the whole time the work was in progress); the sawmillers who supplied the timber, Messrs J, Eeuall and McLcod, fthcy had supplied everything except a small quantity of kauri, said Mr Hogg); the workmen, tho carpenters, plumbers, bricklayers, painters and decorators, etc. Ho reminded them that though the Queen ruled over all, the lawyer pleaded .for all, the minister prayed for all, the soldier fought for all—but tho labourer worked for all. (Cheers). In conclusion Mr Hogg said he was very pleased nnd very proud (o see so many present to do honour to the occasion. (Applause). Mr C. A. Pownall, Mayor of MastertoD, was the next speaker, and he received a heartv greeting as lie came forward. On behalf of the townspeople, he desired to extend a hearty welcome to the Hon. W. C. Walker, who was there representing the Ministry. Ho also was pleased lo see such a large and rcprefentative gathering assembled on an occasion like that, on which they had been Jirought together. Among others jWliou he desired to welcome was Mayor of Greytown. Ho also desired to welcome to the town the officials of the Post Office Department, who had come from Wellington to assist in the celebration He trusted (hey would be present at many similar functions hereafter. The fact of their having their new Post Office was due entirely to the liberality and progressivencss of the Government, bat in a great degreo to the energy and persistency displayed throughout by the member for the district, Mr Hogg, but for whom, they might rest assured, they would not have had the splendid building in front of which lliey were standing. He was pleased to echo the hope expressed by the previous epeaker that they would take part in many similar functions hereafter. The town had now started on an era of progress. A few years ago they had to be contcnl with anything and everything. At last they had got a respectable Town Hall, At one time ho felt inclined to lose all hope, but the dead members had given place to ones imbued with more vitality and progressivencss, and the consequence was lhat a different state of things ha 1 now been inaugurated. No Ipnger the atmosphere of Sleepy Hollow ' iung over their community, and the local bodies had aroused from their and were now full of energy. Wjlo ivo'uld like if some of those old residents, who had hem in the district for 30 or <lO years, would address them on the changes which had taken place within that period. Ho congratulated them on the auspicious event which had brought tliem together, and he was exceedingly pleased to see such a satisfactory gathering. He again extended a cordial welcome to their visitors, who he hoped would take away with them good impressions of their town and district. The Hon. W. C. Walker was the next speaker, and he was also heartily cheered as he came forward. He assured them that he was exceedingly sorry that no others of bis colleagues had been able to come up with him. They lmd all heard of the Premier's somewhat serious indisposition, and he (the Speaker) was quite sure there was not one present who was not heartily sorry that illness was the cause of his absence on an occasion when (it would have given him so much pleasure to be present. The Premier's illness was a sorrowful incident in which lie was sure every man, woman, and child comprising the assemblage before him would sincerely sympathise, and 'would also hope that the Premier would before long he restored to his former vigorous health, to continue to work in the interests of the colony. Btlic Premier was going away for a rest, and he and his colleagues had been very busy tailing over the business affairs of the Colony, and arranging for things being carried on during his absence. Ho (Mr Walker) took a special interest in the function now proceeding, as tho plans for the new Post Office had been finally adopted during the time that he himself was Acting-Foslmaslcr-Gcneral. He remembered the old building, and ivas pleased to seo it superseded by the '4audsomc structure, which it had fallen to him to officially declare open for public business. He was well a ware what a progressive and impoitant district this was, but it was owing lo Mr Hogg's persistency that their desiro had been attained. Persistency was a good thing in a representative, for by it things wero accomplished which otherwiso would fail. If Mr Hogg continued to remain their representative, a marked change in the appearance of the public buildings might be looked for. It was said of a certain j Soman Emperor that, when he came to Eomo he found it brick, nnd left it 'Tmarblo. But, judged by what Mr Hogg's persistency bad achieved, it bade fair to m said of him that, when ho came to jlfasterton lie found it weather-boards, andwhenheleftit,brickwassubstituted. Brick was by no means a had article, either. (A voice: "Hogg's a brick." G'lieors). He mutt say that he thought rather hard things had been said of llio Government that day, referring to the alleged difficulty to get them to do anything in tho way of public buildings. He could assure lhei.i the Government did not object at all lo erect required public buildings, which fa re urgently needed for the accommodation of the people. But what the Government desired, was to havo their eyes opened to the real requirements of the public,and to have matters cxplaiued to tliem, so Hint they might understand the necessity for what was asked for. Ho thought he could claim for the Government that they were always ready and willing to rccoguiso the just and legitimate claims of eyery progressive district. He hoped, however, tbat the town might go on improving, and in course of time other public ■ buildings might be found necessary for the benefit of the people. He readily .. Admitted that the district m solid and

1 progressive, and thai the pooplo wero i deserving of a building like Hint which it . dovolvcd upon him tlmt day lo dcclaro ; open. If there was ouo department in the ; public sonico lhat was keeping pace 1 with the limes, it was the Postal and ■ Telograph Department, lie bad travelled right through the Colony—from North Cape to Stewart's Island; nnd in the most out-of-the-way parts of the Colony, where accommodation for man and beast was sometimes rather rough, and difficult to procure, ho invariably found telephone or telegraphic conveniences fairly accessible; and, eveu in the mo>t remote or isolated localiiie*, lie knew that ho was always within hilf-an-hour's communication with head • quarters in Wellington. If tlicy considered the strides which the Post mid Telegraph Department had made during tho last few years, it said a great deal for tho wonderful progress nnd resource of the Colony. (In could honestly say thai he himself felt very proud both of the Postal and also of the Telegraph Department. Both the public nnd the stall' in Mastcrton had, no doubt, required better nwommodntion, which in future they would have. Figures would show that solid advancement had been made by both l'ottul and Telegraph Departments during the last few years. They would also learn from those figures how much was being done by those Departments in tho interests of tho colony and for tho benefit of tho population. He concluded by heartily thanking tliem for llio numerous attendance that afternoon, and for having given him such a patient hearing. Mr J. T. M. Jtornsby, 1i1.H.11., for Wairarapa, who was also well received, was the next speaker, Ho began by paying a high compliment to their energeiie representative, to whose persistency was due the happy result which had crowned his efforts, in the stalely pile of buildings which was such an ornament to tho town, and constituted the fruition of their member's long-deferred hopes. To Mr Hogg's energy and determination they owed a great deal, as but for his persistency they would never lmve had such a magnificent building as graced their town. Some people had complained of llio additional cost of the tower, and claimed that the money might have been brllerlaid out in providing bridges or culverts whore urgently needed. But bad lliey not remarked lhat the young people in this colony were devoid of veneration ? And why was thisP Possibly bccnusc they had no stately piles to point to as something to build up their ideality, and to elevate them out of the grooves, and make it a better, brighter, and happier land for everyone, , There was no necessity for cheese-par- , ing iu public buildings, This was an age of progress. Never had , the colony been so prosperous,- , or its revenuo so elastic. He re- j gretted very much to hear of the Pre- ( mier's indisposition. He deplored the , fearful sacrifico of health and strength , which llio responsibililics of offieo en- | tailed. Ho reminded them how Sir 11. , Atkinson and the Hon. John Bullance had fairly died in harness, having sacri- j liccdtheirhealtli and life in the service of , the public; andnow the present Premier , was seriously indisposed, and most probably ho also would sacrifice ( some years of his existence through j the terrible strain of public life. They j expected too much from their public men, j and the Colouy would liaye lo make some , provision for lessening the severe strain , now devolving upon them, even if it en- | tailed a few thousands extra a year. He | congratulated the district upon the grati- ] fying information of tbc purchase and , early subdivision of a large estate | as mentioned by Mr Hogg, nnd lie hoped j mere would follow later ou. He looked ■ forward lo the limo when, ou the retire- , meat of the present Minister of Lands, Mr A, W. Hogg might be entrusted with that portfolio. (Loud applause).

Mr G. S. W. Dalrymple urged the Government to adopt a universal penny postage system throughout the Colony; and lie predicted that there would bo no loss of reyenue, oning to the great increase of correspondence which would result. Mr Hogg now camo forward and said that all that remained to bo done was to ask the Hon. W. C. Walker to formally declare the new Post Office open. He then handed the key of the main entrance to the Minister, wlw, saying "I declare the buildiug open to tho public," turned tho key and admitted Ihe largo crowd, who speedily thronged Ihe building in eyery apartment on the different floors, many making their way to the top of the tower. Meantime the Masterton Municipal Band discoursed some excellent music, aud later on the large crowd dispersed. The function having been carried out in a most pleasing and successful manner. THE rosi AND TELEGBArH lIUSIXESS GENERALLY, It may not be out of place to give a few particulars showing tho enormous expansion of the Post and Telegraph business during the past ten years -an Undeniable indication of the prosperily and growth of the Colony. In 1890 35,505,325 articles were posted in the Colony, as compared with 65,593,907 last year, an increase of 31,008,582 articles, or 909 per cent. The untnber of letters and letter-cards posted last year, per head of population, was 4777, compared with 34'37 in 1890; the population having increased 19 93 percent., indicating that the growth of business was not alone due to the increase of population. The total number of telegrams forwarded in 1890 was 1,961,161, compared with 3,469,731 in 1899, an increase of 77 per cent. In 1890 there were 2592 telephone subscribers, and in 1899,7150. The number of Savings Bank transactions in 1890 was 209,806, and 520,723 in 1899. Open accounts in 1890 numbered 97,109; in 1899 tlicy totalled 183,016. The amount deposited in 1890 was £1,658,513, as against £3,611,980 in 1899. One million odd was withdrawn in 1890, and over three million in 1899 In 1890 balance at credit of depositors was over two millions, and in 1899 over five millions, an actual increase of 118 per cent. The savings of the people had therefore more than doubled in ten years. Money order transactions increased from £1,191,623 remitted in 1890 to £2,066,821 in 1899. The number of money order offices increased from 313 to 434; sayiugs bank offices from 298 lo 426; telegraph and telephone offices from 510 to 916 ; total number of offices from 1210 to 1707. The revenue in 1890 was £335,329 with expenditure £262,597; in 1899 the revenue was £192,019, with expenditure £388,561.

DEPUTATIONS. THE HON. MR WALKER INTERVIEWED. Mr C. A. Pownall (Mayor of Masterton), and C'rs E Feisl, A. Mutrie, and B. X. Jackson waited on tho Hon. Mr Walker, together with Messrs J. P Elliot aud E. McEwen, to urge various matters on tbc Government. The Mayor said they had three subjects to press under notice: anew Court House; the Town Clock; and a Technical School building. It was thought that a brick Courthouse could be built on the land in front of the Police Staliou, adjoining llio Post Office. Great inconvenience was now occasioned when tho District Court-a yery important Court-was sitting. The public felt that the time had come for the erection of a more suitable building. With regard lo the Town Clock, the townsmen, in spile of many calls, had subscribed £3OO towards .the clock and thought the Government if it could seo its way to do so, might contribute £3OO towards the cost. Thoy could then obtain a clock, which would bo thoroughly useful in every way. With regard to the Technical School, it was now a very important institution. Masterton's claims were, he considered, pre-eminent, first bccauso the School was well under weigh, and secondly because the Town Lands Trustees were prepared to give a valuable site. This was a matter peculiarly within the Hon Mr Walker's province aud jurisdiction, and he trusted Mr Walker would give tho matter his most favourable consideration. Hasterlon was an important and growing centre, with many claims for assistance, as it bad been rather neglected in the past. There were present some members of tho Technical School Committee, who would be ablo lo lay the question more fully before Mr Walker, Mr J. P. Elliot in supporting the application, said Mr Walker had been previously interviewed by the Technical School Committee j the circumstances were, as then pointed out; but were now even worse, owing to the growth of the school, and tho increased number of classes. They had now a wood-working class with eighteen members, who met in a shed for want of a proper building. While recognising that many similar claims were made on the Government, there was no doubt Masterton's position

was unique, ns it offered a vnluablo site nnd only asked that a building bo creeled. He nlso wished to bring under tho Minister's notice (he desirability of establishing an experimental farm, which would prove of inestimablo value to such on imporlnnt agricultural district as llio Wairarapa. There wns an Education lioserve of 230 acres lying practically idle, which he thought be obtained from the Commissioners. Ho trusted Mr Walker would do his best for tliem.

Mr Walker said with rcgnrd to the first two matters, he should ho gliid to place what had been pointed out to him beforehiscolleagues. Mrlfogghadtaken him over the Courthouse buildings, nnd had pointed out the defects. Ho should liko them to seo Mr Ward, however, ns he believed the frontage they referred to belonged to Mr Wmil's department. It would also bo well to approach Mr Wnrd on the question of a subsidy for the Post Office clock. With regard to the Technical School, ho was as deeply disappointed ns they were. He had introduced a Bill last session which wns to assist technical education generally, but he regretted it lmd not become law. Ho intended to movo in tho same direction next session, ns ho (irmly believed in the importance of Technical Education. With reeard to tho experimental farm, ho should bo glad to see it taken up hero and in other parts; the matter was one, however, requiring consideration. It would be ill accord witli his views to see scientific experimental agricultural education provided. 1 n conclusion, lie might add, he would lie very pleased to find tho next building of importance opened in Mastcrton, n Tcchiiicnt School.

Mr 11. Brown requested that Mr Walker view the 230 acres, if ho could spare llio lime. Mr Walker said be could not, (lint afternoon, but would make a special visit one day if they desired it. The Mayor, on behalf of the deputation, thanked Mr Walker, and withdrew. THE EVENING CEREMONY. ADDRESS BY THE HON, J. G. WARD. In the evening the Town Hall stage was elaborately decorated, flowers being placed artistically about, nud a varied programme was submitted. The llev. W. Cargill occupied the chair. Mr and Mrs A. W. Hogg, Mr and Mrs J. T. M. Hornsby, Mr and Mrs lleagerty, tho Hon. W. C. Walker, nnd later llio Hon. J. G. Wnrd and Mrs Ward occupied seats on the platform. The Hon. Mr Walker, in n neat speech referring fo education, said, while prepared to talk over any proposal for furthering it, he thought they ought to be satisfied with the present system. New Zealand's sons, in their ready response lo the call to llio Transvaal, bad shown tlicy were as good as their fathers, the pioneers. Education was best when it turned out good and brave men nnd women, and he maintained their public schools did turn out good and brave men nnd women. All Ihoy wanted was to mako the present educational system a little better, An important point wns to get good,qualified teachers; but there was more haphazard in this respect than there ought to be, and although lie did not deny there were good teachers iu the Colony, lie tliuught a better system of training teachers ought to claim attention. Payment and status were at present not saiisfaclory, and the Government intended to bring down a measuro providing for a Colonial scale of payment. When a Board got into dilii jultic, so much was generally knocked oil' tcachcrs'snlaries.butCabinetdiduottliink this a fair thing. It was recognized that if a colonial scale were adopted, it would cost a lillleiuore; but iheGovernment thought it was of sufficient importance to warrant it, espccnlly with the finances in the souud condition they were,

Mr Walker then, at length, spoke on the subject of Technical Education, regretting lhat the measure of last session was thrown out, and trusted it would be even more satisfactorily settled next session. The measure it was intended lo introduce would dealwithNigbt Schools On behalf of the Ministry, he desired to state (and he was sure the whole party felt it) lhat thoy recognised the enormous responsibility thrown on tliem by Ihe verdict of tho eouniry at the Into elections, and desired most fully to justify the confidence placed in the present Government. (Applause). The Chairman, before calling on the next speaker, emphatically supported Mr Walker's remarks ou Night Schools -or as they called them at Home-con-tinuation classes. Mr J. T. M Hornsby followed with a brilliant speech, in which he referred strongly and in favourable terms, to the establishment of workmen's homes, aud generally supported the present Government's policy. The Hon. J. G. Ward, who arrived at 9.J5 p.m., was heartily applauded, and with Mrs Ward, took their seats on tho slage. The Cliaii.nan, in introducing the Hon. gentleman to the meeting, on behalf of tho people of Maslerton, heartily welcomeu Mr Ward. He also deeply regretted the absence of Ihe Hon. the Premier, remarking that Mr Seddon's illness had been caused in the noble efforts he had made for his country's good. All men could welcome the Hon. Mr Ward without distinction of party: all he could say was they had great expectations of Mr Ward. (Applause). Mr Ward, who was warmly applauded on rising, said he was indebted to the Chairman for the kindly way in which he had been introduced, and the feeling expression regarding Mr Seddon's indisposition. Mr Seddon had requested him to exprcsshis deep regret at notbeing present at Ihe gathering that evening. He believed it was Ihe desiro of eyery man, woman and child, that Mr Seddon should speedily recover, aud he (Mr Ward) fully believed that a sea voyage would fully recruit him from his present illness, (Applause). If the Ministry did fail in its duty to _Mastcrton, what about their indefatigable member? Why, his experience was, that if Mr Hogg was not listened to, he kicked up such a row lhat they very soon had to listen to the member for Mastcrton, and tbc wants of his constituency, (Applause and laughter). He was glad to be present that night at Mastcrton, to celebrate the opening of the new Post Office, a building the town lmd needed. He was not going to be foolish enough to make a political speech; but he would just say that NcwZealaud stood higher to-day than ever it had before in the eyes of Europe, because they had shown that the British Empire was not afraid of its enemies, and New Zealand had nobly done its share in sending her sons lo the front If New Zealand required to go upon the money market she would get a higher price thauher—insome respectsmore fortunalciiiglibours; because New Zealand had raised her credit, and it was something to be proud of. It was not for him to anticipate his worthy colleague's statement, lo be made within the walls of the House within a month or two,- but he might say that ut very large sum had been expended in sendiug the noble sons of tho noble mothers aud fathers of New Maud to lake pate in the lighting iu South Africa; and yet lliey had a surplus of somo £600,001 In a few weeks lliey would hear of concessions iu railway freights in favour of the people. It was uot for him to say 100 much, but he could say thatofthepolicyof the Government would be one of progress; in Ihe direction of cutting up large estates; he could say that much without" giving the show away," Who would say it was not to tho interest of all classes to have plenty of money, and to have it at lon' rato3 ? To enable them to compete, they must have money at as low a rate as countries they wero competing with. Never was moro money available at cheaper rates; and was not this a sign of prosperity? Their policy would be cheap freights for tho producers and cheap money for fie people to use. (Applause). It would be their aim and object lo annihilate distance, so to speak, to enable New Zealand producers to reach the world's markets. 1 le hoped at somo future time to speak in Mastcrton again; not at n socialbutonsomooccasion when he might deal with abstract politics. Although he had never spoken from a platform in tho Wairarapa before, be hoped to speak in many parts of the Colouy, and the Wairarapa would not be forgotten. Then, being unshackled, so to speak, he could tell them what had been aud was going to bo done, There was one thing that had, from the begiuuiug of tho present Government's term of office, been done; tlicy had endeavoured to place the burden of taxation moro fairly on Ihe people. What did they find now ? Thoso who opposed Now Zealand's measures of reform a few years ago, now saw that they were right j that Amerioa and other na-

i lions bad even copied somo of i New Zealand's laws nnd measures. I They wet tall going in,in thoneighbouring ! colonics, for cheaper money; England took Now Zealand's Conciliation and Arbitration Act to work on as a mode]; ■ they wero nil taking our Old Ago Pension scheuio up ns tho first Englishspenking country lo ndopt such a measure. The members of tho Ministry had been much reviled and attacked —lie regretted iu some places most unfairly—but they persisted in keeping in view the noble aims which actuated them, nnd ivorked on for the welfare of tho people. (Applause), If anyone nsked him how to bccomo a New Zealand politician, ho would say that, at any rale, llireo things were iu-dispciisahlo-First, a good constitution; second, to bo able to get up smiling every limo after being knocked down on half-a-dozen or so occasions; and fliird, to havo an exterior about ns thick ns a live-inch wall. If nny young mnu wanted lo know more about it let him come along. Possibly, when those who now were doing so much for New Zealand were gone kind things would be said about litem, and in llio sweet by-and-by lie hoped they would bo ablo to look down and see wlint wns written about them in the shape of epitaphs. (Laughter ami applause). It was getting lalo and be did not wish fo weary them. (A Voice: "You're not; keep on Mr Wnrd.") Well, ho hoped lo be nblo lo speak in Mnslerton again. The future of tho country, with ordinarily prudent management must be a great ono; why as an evidence they could uol get within two years of the rolling slock required in their railway workshops owing to the rapid progress, Gold-dredging was becoming a great industry in the south nnd the country wns prospering everywhere. With everybody doing well, he must be a pessimist indeed who would deny that a great future wns before such a country; ami so long as lliey had honest fearless men to represent tliein in jthe Legislature, they hud nothing to fear. (Applause). Speaking personally, lie would promise tbat ns far ns lie could assist tlie Wairarapa and its representatives, to obtain attention lo reasonable wants ho would do so. (Applause), ffc regretted his absence earlier in the day and was only kept away by pressing public business in tho Umpire City. (Prolonged applause). The Chairman regretted the fact lhat he had omitted to welcome Mrs Ward: lie now hastened to do so. (Applause). Mr J. D. Hcagcrly then presented Mr Hogg a purse of sovereigns from his constituents, and a bouquet of flowers sent from Mr Torry in tho llunteryille District. (Applause). Mr Hogg, in acknowledging the gift, snid it was not the lirst kindness of the sort he had received; lie did not know what was in the purse,sokindly given, hut be could tell tliem it would soon be in circulation. (Laughter). A politician's purse wns usually light—and his wns no exception. But if it was so, his heart was never very heavy. Mr Hogg, continuing, remarked that if lie wns persistent in bis requests for consideration of bis constituents it was because he knew he was asking wlint was just and fair, He heartily endorsed the policy enunciated by Mr Ward, lie eslceincd the gifts highly—especially the llowers from Utiku, in the llsngitikei, becauso lliey were sent by old friends whom lie had helped to obtain laud. He could only assure tliem of his sincerest intention to continue to serve tho people of his district and the Colony as well as he had doue in the past, (Applause). During the evening vocal and instrumental items were rendered. Miss llogg contributing a cleverly-executed piano solo; Miss Elizabeth O'Malley gavo in chatactcr " The Lost Child" (Master Eddy Coyle being the child), and did well; tho licv. Wyndham Eurce, who was in fine voice, sang " I Cannot Help Loving Thee," (Mrs J. N. Bairic playing the accompaniment), and in response to an encore, gave "Tatters." A song and duet by Mr S. H. lialpli and Miss Pragnell-"Zealandia" wns very well received, Miss Danioll accompanying. Tho last but not len-t musical item was a song by Miss Pragnell with violin obligato by Miss Emmy Daniell, Miss Hogg taking the piano. An adjournment was then made to tho Drill Hall, where dancing wns indulged in, tho Ministerial party joining in heartily, and a splendid supper was provided by llic ladies, Mr W. t. Falconer acted as secretary, and worked bard to make the function a success.