NEW ADMINISTRATOR

Hokitika Guardian, 26 March 1928, Page 4

NEW ADMINISTRATOR

MORRINS VILLE COUNCIL’S CONOR ATUATIONS. AUCKLAND, .March 23. Congratulations have been showered on Lieutenant-Colonel R. S. Allen since the announcement of bis appointment as Administrator of the Mandated Territory of Western Samoa. Morrinsville residents particularly were delighted to hear of the distinction gained by one with whom they have come into contact almost daily for many years, and while regretting the loss of their Mayor, they are proud of the great honour conferred on him. Prior to the commencement of busi- , ness at the meeting of the Morrinsville JJorough Council last evening, the Deputy-Mayor (Mr W. McPherson) expressed the gratification of Councillors at the appointment, which, he said, was fully deserved. It not only reflected credit on his Worship, but on the borough of Morrinsville. He had known Colonel Allen for many years, and had had many opportunities of appraising the qualities in him which had influenced the Prime Minister’s decision, and although his task was not an enviable one. he was confident the Administrator would fully justify his appointment. Colonel Allen, in reply, said that he had neither sought nor deserved the position. It was one of those occasions when duty must come (before all else. They might he sure he would do his best to justify the confidence reposed in him. It was with the utmost regret that he would be unable to complete his term of office as Mayor of Mor rinsville. and he was exceedingly I sorry that the time had come when he must sever his connexions with the town. In an interview. Colonel Allen said that until a week ago lie had known nothing concerning the appointment. The first suggestion had been made when he was invited to go to Wellington to confer with the Prime Minister. “I know nothing whatsoever about the iob,” he said, ‘'hut naturally I am pleased at my appointment, which, however, was not of my seeking. I liavo no personal knowledge of Samoa, but I feel confident and will do my best.” Colonel Allen said he would be sailing for Samoa on April 12th. On 1 April Ist lie -would visit Wellington I and see the Prime Minister on 'busi- < ness appertaining to his new office. 1 Mr? Allen and their six-year-old son would accompany him to the Islands. 1