Untitled

Hokitika Guardian, 25 May 1931, Page 4

Yesterday was Empire Day, a day dedicated at the suggestion of the late Earl of Meath to the British Empire, in memory of Queen Victoria vrho

saw the Empire grow so greatly in her time, and who celebrated her birthday

on May 24th. It is interesting to recall that in the days of Queen Victoria, the volunteer movement in New Zealand was at its best. 'There were some splendid corps in the then colony, and the Queen’* Birthday was an occasion always for ,a> special parade and a mark of honour to the Sovereign. Our Empire is no less important to the nation to-day, and its care is as much a charge on tho people as in the days of Queen Victoria. Since Her Majesty’s reign, the Empire lia s passed through great ordeals. Wars have beset the country, but the nation has grown, and possesses a greater inherent strength than ever. 'The national spirit ha* not decayed as the period of the late Grant War proved. In arts and science Britain’s sons and daughters continue to maintain a prominent place. The stability of tho nation remains intact, though often attacked from within by those*, of an anti-Kmpir e spirit. Britain is now a great democrarv giving greater liberty than ever to the subject, and on the whole is led by men of the highest purpose, There is a great leaven of loyalty to the Throne spread throughout the Empire, as was evidenced by the homage paid to King, George deling his late serious illness. Indeed the attachment to tW?. Royal Home at Windsor was never more strongly (manifested than in the later days of our national history. The Empire is ruled wisely by its Sovereign head, and with him are n Queen and Princes endeared not only to the nation, but also to foreign countries where the personalities have come to be appreciated for ’ their individual character, The- King apcl the Princea ljftvo travelled far over the confines of Empire, and the Ppince of Wajes baa become something of a medium as an international link -y personal contact with rnapy great countries of the world, Under such government the British Empire continues to stand high in the esteem, of all nations. The Empire has served them well. Tho weak look to Britain for aid in distress. Belgium recently publicly announced its confidence in the defence Britain would afford if it overfly attacked, and other nations have similar feelings towards the centre of the Empire. A great heritage is being built up, and it is for the Dominions to maintain the pride and interest in the Empirfe. and all that it stands for. Empire Day should therefore be a reminder of our national obligations, an.l lie a source of renewed spirit to go forward with renewed hope as national builders, creating for those who come after a brighter and happier Empire than we enjoy to-day.