NEW ZEALAND FOOTBALLERS.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 8277, 19 October 1905, Page 3

NEW ZEALAND FOOTBALLERS.

Mr Seddon's Cable Message.

A paragraph, in yesterday's issue, stated that the Westminster Gazelle, referring to Mr Seddon's cable rejoicing in tho prowess of the New Zealand footballers, asks: "Is this really quite the sort of thing for a Premier to cable ?"

Tho cablegram referred to was sent by the Premier in reply to the following cablegram sent on the 12th October by the editor of the Daily Mail, London:--" Seddon, Premier, New Zealand.—British public amazed brilliancy New Zealand footballers. Could you kindly let us know what New Zealand thinks of their remarkable success. Sincere thanks.—(Signed) Editor Daily Mail."

The Premier's reply was as follows :■— "Editor Daily Mail, London.—Not surprised British public amazed brilliancy of New Zealand footballers. British team visiting the Colonies in 1901 boaten by New Zealand, and in two other matches gave an index of the standard of Rugby football in England, and augured success for our pioneer team's visit to Mother Country. Confidently anticipated present team prove equal to strongest teams in England, demonstrating advancement scientific Rugby football in this Colony. As indicating public interest here, information respecting contests taking place Great Britain awaited almost as eagerly as news late war South Africa, and results received with great enthusiasm. The natural and healthy conditions of Colonial life produce stalwart and athletic sons of whom New Zealand and tho Empire are justly proud. — (Signed) Seddon."

It is understood the message was paid for by the Daily Mad.