THE RT. HON. SIR R. STOUT.

Hokitika Guardian, 14 August 1926, Page 4

THE RT. HON. SIR R. STOUT.

(New Zealand “Times.”) It is in the fitness of tilings that Sir Robert Stout should take part in the counsel of the Dominion. He has served his adopted country- well; his powers are the better for his long experience; merit calls him ; and capacity endorses the claim. There eoukl he no better if aim for entry into the Legislative Council. All New Zealand welcomes the announcement of his appointment. This because all know both the man and his career. In early youth he had obeyed the urge of pubfic duty and studied the politics of his country to advantage. Entering flic legal profession, he rapidly rose to the lchdership of the Bar. Continuing the study of politics throughout his laborious career at the Bar, he, in due course, entered into representative politics and liecame Prime Minister. Rack in privajtc life he held the mastery at the Bar, and continued to keep himself abreast, of the things of the day, with interest in all -social and economic problems. And throughout his labours he was cheered by cither the companionship or correspondence, of mind distinguished in one or other of the scientific and economic achievements of the day.

Twenty-seven years, ago' the keen judgment of the Prime Minister—the Right Hon. 1!. J. Seddon—fitted Him into the Chief Justiceship of the Dominion. During all those twenty-sev-en years he gave his host in impartial judgment, legal knowledge, humanitarian service—kept up throughout the exacting calls of 'office—-establishing a record of which future generations will be proud. His indicia! career ended, he has returned to public service. Ho sits in the revising Chamber, where Ids great experience of judicial, literary. and philanthropic work, fortified by much reading, will he of great service. It will be felt, rather than trumpeted from the housetops, ltut Sir Robert needs no trumpet, iris value carries sound enough for the most modest achievement. May ho enjoy many years in his present position of welldeserved honour.