HARD-WORKED CIVIL SERVANTS.

Globe, Volume XXIII, Issue 2169, 7 February 1881, Page 3

HARD-WORKED CIVIL SERVANTS.

“ I dare say,” remarks the Wellington correspondent of a Nelson paper, in a recent issue, “ most of your readers are familiar with the story of the young clerk who once asked his employer for a day’s leave in order that he might attend his father’s funeral, ‘Very well, Mr Smith,’ said his employer, who was somewhat absent-minded, •you may go this time, but pray don’t let it occur again. 9 Since the recent reductions in the Government Buildings the clerks there have found the work accumulate to such an extent that holidays are generally regarded as being out of the question this year, and it a yonng man, say in the Public Works office, was called upon to assist at his father’s funeral, it is doubtful whether he would bo spared a whole day for the purpose. The other day a clerk in one of the offices asked his chief if he might be absent from the office for half-an-bour. Permission was given, and the young Civil servant was observed to rush excitedly down the street as if running for his very life. Presently he ran into the arms a charming looking yonng lady, who seemed in a state of groat trepidation, a hurried conference took place, the young man looked at his watch, and then retraced his steps to the Government Buildings, wearing an anxious expression on his face. Again he presented himself before his chief, and asked it his leave might be extended to two hours, as he found ‘ he couldn’t get it done in half-an-hour.’ * Get what done?’ asked the chief. ‘lf you please,” replied his subordinate with many blushes, • I proposed to get married this morning.’ I wish I could add that the head of the department thereupon gave him his blessing, and a fortnight in which to spend the honeymoon. But he did not. The young fellow got his two hours and then returned conscientiously to his desk, albeit radiant in the joy of being a happy bridegroom. May ho and the young lady continue to enjoy all the happiness and prosperity which they deserve, say I,