PUBLIC HOLIDAY.

Auckland Star, Volume II, Issue 369, 16 March 1871, Page 2

PUBLIC HOLIDAY.

To-morrow being the anniversary of the ' natal day of Ireland's patron saint, is to be observed as a general holiday. It has been proclaimed as such iv due form by his Honor the Superintendent, and. we hare no doubt, will be observed, not only by those who hail from the land of the sliann-ock, but by the general public. We are informed on authority which cannot be disputed that St. Patrick was a gentlerr,an, and came of decent people; and from his nobie and successful efforts in " banishing all the varmin," he has laid humanity under great obligations. But, irrespective of this historical incident, we do not doubt that the opportunity will be taken by a large number of our fellow-citizens toshake off dull care for a day, and refresh wearied nature in keeping holiday. On our military authorities we cry shame ! and echo answers shame ! A splendid opportunity was afforded in this public holiday for a grand review, and, with insult to the Volunteers themselves, and indifference to the feelings of the people, it has been let pass. We _ presume it is quite a la mUUaire to treat the wishes of civilians with contempt. Nevertheless, where the success of volunteering is so intimately associated with the temper of the people, such w favorable opportunity of enlisting popular sympathy should not have been neglected.