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Hokitika Guardian, 21 August 1917, Page 2

Apparently matters aro being well focussed in regard to the bridging of the Mikonui river, and there is no., some hopo that this nil-important district work might be an accomplished fact at a not too distant date. Th« very friendly attitude of the Hon Minister of Public Works may be counted upon, judging by the reception given the recent deputation on the matter. Mr Fraser is fully seized with the very urgent need for the bridge crossing, and it is to ho hoped the present negotiations as to ways and means can be pushed to the point of accomplishment. The fact that for industrial purposes a bridge is a certainty supplies the foundation for hoping tlint from this nouclous a regulation traffic bridge will bo supplied. The point at present at issue is, to supply a bridge approximately what is known as the Government Standard. The millers may not be prepared to do this, because a cheaper structure would suit their private undertaking. This difference need not block the proposition all the same, because if the private company would put the money cost of tho bridge they propose into a puouo structure, tho Government might fairly bo asked to complete the bridge to any standard considered necessary. In this way a stable and endurable structure would result, and the public would be supplied for a’ll time. The possibilities of the position to ensure success should be canvassed to the fullest extent so that a work so desirable to the future advancement of South Westland will not be unduly delayed, hninpored, or again lost.

There is nothing more pressing for public attention to-day, and every day this week, than all possible effort to ensure the success of the Liberty Loan. Twelve millions might seem a long wav to climb, hut it is absolutely necessary to reach that goal before mid-day on Monday week. The task will bo the more easily accomplished if all who can will co-operate In tho common task. It is open to tho small investor, as to tho largo, to do their bit, and in so doing they are helping to win the war. Tho winning of tho war means a great deal—everything in fact. What it means is best measured by contemplating just, what defoat would carry in its train. If the enemy aero victorious in this groat war, whatever money or goods we possessed would he of very ( little value, for they would be levied upon to the fullest oxtent by the victors to retrieve tlieir broken fortunes. Our personal liberties would ho at a discount, and none more so than those of the British race. Defeat means extinction, and to avoid that overwhelming contingency it is not too much to ask those who can to contribute freely to the War Loan. The duty of doing so is sweetened by profit, for the money is but lent to tho Government, and becomes interost earning. It is a safe and sound investment ensuring profit and security. Tho country calls for tho money, and the response can he made without personal hardship. Tt is tho clear duty of all who can to make their response both quickly and liberally.