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Hokitika Guardian, 30 January 1919, Page 2

Mr Massey haw put up a good fight for the control of German Samoa, lie has made a good ease and put forward a sound claim for the future 'control bv New Zealand. It will he recalled that the Dominion troops lost no timo in annexing the German possessions In doing so our man ran a groat risk. They were at the mercy of the German Pacific Fleet, if the ships had appeared on the scone. Although the possession was occupied without loss of life, to hold the island for the benefit of the Allies, it had to be garrisoned, and that occupation took its toll of our men. Germany has so conducted herself during the war, that she is not, considered a desirable neighbour. Her rutlilessuess at- sea lias been such that she should have no island possessions where she might make secret preparations for more sea piracy. New Zealand has put up such a good record in the war, that Mr Massey although representing a small people is entitled to carry a great deal of weight There seems to be reason to believe t-liat he will succeed and that New Zealand will control German Samoa for the future. That Great Britain did not control the whole of the Samoan group is entirely the fault oi the Motherland. The late Mr Scddon urged its occupation and wa s ready to annex it, a steamer at Wellington being on tho point- of sailing when the action was vetoed from London. Mr Massey is now able to point out the mistake, and the country is now ready to go some way towards remedying the mistaken Pacific policy of the past. Tim action of th 0 Charitable Aid Board in moving regarding its rebuilding scheme is very commendable. I' l t-lio first place the action i» '»>ieli overdue and secondly tthe present is a most opportune time to move. Not only are there funds in hand, hut there ib a sympathetic Minister and the public will be ready to help at this juncture, realising tiie debt owing to the nursing staff arising out of tho late epidemic.

The needs for improved quarters for th e nursing staff, suggests that the new building might he something of a memorial to the sacrifices of the nurses, at the time of the late fell epidemic. An appeal to the public on these lines would result in a substantial monetary response from all parts of the district. The Board might well take it y courage in both hands and go forward with a rebuilding scheme to replace the present •condemned wooden ward and erect administrative quarters with a nurses’ homos. The Minister when here a few months ago wa s profuse in promises. The6o might be redeemed in part. There is some indication of a special grant, and this might be made an annual vote while rebuilding is in progress. Already the Government architect lias been here to study requirements and the plans should be called for and if found satisfactory make a beginning with the project. The Board if it launches out will find the public with it, and the present moment seems to be a very opportune time to go forward determinedly with the schome for so long in | mind.