THE NEW SCOTTISH SOCIETY

Dominion, Volume 12, Issue 237, 1 July 1919, Page 8

THE NEW SCOTTISH SOCIETY

Sir,—Kindly grant me space in . yonr valuable columns to express my opinion regarding one of, the speakers at Saturday night's meeting of brither Scots. As a stranger in the Empire City, I was attracted to the Town Hall by the skirl of the pipes, and much to my surprise I was informed that there was no charge for admission. Being Aberdcenish. 1 offered no objections to this. 1 listened with much interest to the various speakers, who were subjected to occasional interjections from the "back seaters." but as I am not conversant with the history of the Scottish, Caledonian, or other like societies in Wellington, I Will pass on. When the chairman asked if any person desired to speak against a certain resolution, a Mr. Patterson ascended the platform, and I may state that this gentleman can feel fortunate at having only been "counted out." Mr. Patterson, I take; it, was speaking on behalf of a rival society, and I hope they are proud of his eifort. His reference to one of the officers of lii 3 particular society being "dismissed on account of his appearing under- the influence of intoxicating liquor" was uncalled for, and apart from being de.fp.matpry of -the officer concerned, it was a slur and insult on all persons claiminx Scotland, as their birthplace. Mr. Patterson was "going to keep his society clean." What about tho national beverage of Scotland, which our forefathers drank regularly, but in moderation? I venture to suggest that were Mr. Patterson to make similar remarks'in Scotland, he could expect, and Would rightly deserve, o. wanner receptiou than merely beins "counted out." With good wishes for the success of tho best Caledonian society, and thanking you, Mr. Editor,-I LES . Wellington, June 29, 1919.