WELL DONE, WAIRARAPA

Dominion, Volume 8, Issue 2497, 25 June 1915, Page 6

WELL DONE, WAIRARAPA

The Wairarapa district is carrying its full shaic of the war burden with magnificent enthusiasm. Its young men have gone forth in large numbers to fight for their country, and those who are unable to go to the front are giving their money without stint. The sale of the flag at the Boxing Carnival at Masterton on Wednesday night gave the Wairarapa settlers an opportunity of showing their patriotism in a decidedly practical manner, and they rose to the occasion with a zeal that could not be surpassed. The great sum of £21,574 for a flag is probably a world's record in that particular form of patriotic enthusiasm. It is certainly an achievement of which the Wairarapa in particular and the Dominion in general have every reason to he proud. The flag was presented by the President of the Boxing Association (Mk. A. P. Whatmak), ancl he was the final purchaser, the bit of bunting costing him in all 3000 guineas. The bidding was vci'y spirited, and it is not surprising that intense excitement prevailed. To raise over £21,000 by voluntary gifts as a sort of "side show" at an entertainment is something to be remembered. It is stated that the Wairarapa has contributed in less than a week over £40,000 to the Wounded Soldiers' Fund, and in addition it has given during the past few months over £70,000 to the various patriotic funds. It a splendid record. The spirit which finds expression iu deeds rather than words is infectious, and the example of cheerful generosity set bv the people of the Wairarapa should inspire others to do likewise. As a matter of fact, people are responding in all parts of the country. The result of the Wairarapa flag auction is really an illustration—an exceptionally striking illustration —of the war spirit of the people of New Zealand as a, whole.