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Daily Telegraph (Napier), Issue 3006, 12 February 1881, Page 2

Mr John Alsop, the actuary of the Melbourne Savings Bank, in a recent letter to the Age, quoted the remark that "extravagance is the pervading sin of modern times," and if this be the case it should be the duty of all who are right-minded to try and rectify this evil by example, advice, and all legitimate means available. At the present time the promotion of national thrift is absorbing the attention of members of the leading men of the United Kingdom, and great strides have been made by teaching habits of economy among all classes. If necessary at home it is necessary here. Our savings banks certainly show a marked increase in the number of depositors during tbe past year or two ; still there is ample room for improvement. Employers, should urge the encouragement of thrift among all who come under their influence, and the employed should be enjoined to commence the new year with the determination to devote a portion of tbeir wages to a fund to fall back upon in times of sickness, want of employment and old age. '• Nothing," says a modern writer, " could be a greater test of the respectability of a working man than being able to go without his pay for a month." But how very few there are who can do this. Instead of being able to fall back upon the savings bank, a call is made at the pawnbroker's. The secrets are: " Spend less than is earned ; put away upon pay-day what can be spared, and a strong determination to become a regular saver." 1881 will be a grand year to those who are wise enough to accept and act upon this advice,