THE KING’S MESSAGE

Hokitika Guardian, 4 November 1925, Page 1

THE KING’S MESSAGE

TO SCHOOL CHILDREN

CHRISTCHURCH, Nov. H

“When you grow up you have got to lio pushing and industrious, like, bees working in a beehive. Grow tip and do something for your country. ’ In those words. His Excellency the Governor-General, Sir Chailcs Feiguason. concluded a homely talk to the pupils of the Cashmere School on empire and industry, at the opening of the fresh air school yesterday afternoon. at which Lady Alice Fergusson was also present. “Before taking on the subject, 1 know you will excuse me if I begin by saving a few words to the children in front of me,” said his Excellency, as lie addressed those present from the dias. They had had four addresses on scientific subjects and others, and although they were trying to take them in it was difficult. Stepping from the platform towards the children, Sir Charles said: “I don’t know, children, if you quite gathered wbv we have come here to-day. For one reason we have got a message to give, from the king. King George \ . 1, is a fact that before we came out here was saw the King and he fold us that when we came out to Mew Zealand we were to try and sec as many of you children as we possibly could, for lie takes a great interest in the children all over the Empire and likes to hear all about them. So when ! write to him 1 fell him about all the schools I have seen and the children and he never fails in his letters hack to say that he i-i glad to hear about the. children and that we have seen them all. When 1 write my next teller to him we will tell him about you." Shall 1 give him your love!'” A little girl: Yes.

His 'Excellency: “That you met me here and that you waved Hags and r am sure the King will he very pleased to hear it. The message means that New Zealand is a great part, of the Empire, of which the King is the head. It keeps us together as an Empire.’ He urged the children io he loval and to grow up good citizens •mil continue the splendid work started by their fathers and grandfathers. “Think, children, what this country was eightv years ago? Bush and shrubs. Vow we have a. beautiful country all around here. That was done by your fathers and your grandfathers. When von grow up you have got to he [ins >- jug and industrious, like, bees working i,r.u beehive. Grow up and do something for your country.”