“SURE.”

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2303, 23 September 1908, Page 1

“SURE.”

The modest Australian lias hitherto boon pleased to regard the American as a voluble citizen, with a capacity for blowing his own trumpet. Personal experience of the American navy shows that it consists mostly oi silent, reserved men who have very little to say about themselves (remarks the Melbourne “Age”). An interview that took place recently may possibly be regarded as indicative of the characteristics of at least a section- of both peoples. Tho Australian was a- sporting mail —a horsedealer —and ho was keen upon eliciting the AmericiutjSailor’s opinion of Australians as sportsmen. The conversation went like this : Tho Australian : I guess, sir, that you think we’re a great lot of sports in Australia? The American: Sure! “Yes,' wo’rc generally looked upon as tho greatest sports in tho world. Tlio fact is, in this country everybody goes in for sport.” “Sure!” “And the best of it is, tlio Australians are pretty good at every kind of sport they take in hand—boxing, wrestling, running, football, cricket, rowing, shooting, and all the rest. They seeni to bo good at- everything.” “Sure I” “I suppose there is no country of the sizo in tlio world that has as many champions of the world as wo have.” “Sure!” “No doubt you havo heard all about us before.” “Sure 1”

Having fruitlessly proffered a drink and thanked the American for his interesting views, tho interviewer withdrew.