Random Remarks.

King Country Chronicle, Volume II, Issue 86, 12 June 1908, Page 4

Random Remarks.

The public meeting at Tc Kuiti to consider ways and means of entertaining the Premier, was productive of a lively discussion on the question of liquor or no liquor at the proposed banquet. A division on the question placed the Chairman neatly upon the horns of a dilemma. The first count of hands resulted in a tie, and it looked odds on a cold water reception, but the Chairman rose nobly to the occasion; public spirit soared above private sentiment, and, rather than have the matter decided upon the casting vote of a well known partisan, a second count was called for. The excitement was intense, and when the second count revealed a majority for the believers in the convivial cup, heartfelt sighs of relief could be heard throughout the hall. From the benign expression which overspread the Chairman's countenance, the haunting suspicion was forced upon one that the satisfaction was not altogether caused by being relieved of the responsibility of deciding the question. According to eminent opinion it is a common fate to be misunderstood, and it is to be hoped the reward for a broad minded attitude will be at least the gratitude of the thirsty souls. Such a " falling from grace" will never be forgiven by the prohibitionists. Herewith, the opinion is expressed that had a similar opportunity been offeced_ to an anti - prohibitionist • the casting vote would have been hurled hurriedly, but decisively.

It is seldom a member of the Ministry elects to pay a visit to the back blocks in mid-winter, and the Premier must be given credit for a well developed sense of duty in visiting the King Country just now. On numerous occasions the actions of Sir Joseph have compelled the wholesouled admiration of the people, who are ence more afforded a glimpse of the heights to which Ministerial heroism can ascend. The visit to Wairere is well timed, and in the interests of the settlers could not have happened at a better season. If any reliance can be placed upon ancient adage, the experience of the trip should be worth a fabulous amount of theory, and an intimate acquaintance with winter roads on the part of the Ministers is what the settlers have longed for. Apropos of the trip a lady of our acquaintance impatient of hearing the subject discussed said, " Why talk so much about it ? Take Sir Joseph cut and lose him in a mudhole and Mrs Ward will soon have the road metalled." In considering the remark the conviction is forced upon me that a grievious mistake has been made in not securing the presence of Lady Ward. "The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world." This remark will naturally be construed in various ways, according to temperament and experience. The down-trodden benedict v/ill admit the truth of the statement without qualification. In most cases it is just as well that he should for his own peace of mind, and experience in the matrimonial line begets guile. 0 * * *

That much-abused individual " the Editor" has a harassing time, as a rule, but there are illuminating moments when humour sheds its cheerful radiance across his path. An excited individual last week broke his way into the office, and made the appalling announcement that the Ohura railway deviation was to be taken through to Otorohanga. I use "appalling" advisedly. The man was appalled, in that particular manner in which some people can lose themselves in consternation. To the average individual the idea of a railway going to Otorohanga does not appear ground for serious grief. In fact, if the whole railway system of the Island was made to converge at Otorohanga, such a happening should not disturb the mental equilibrium of ordinary individuals. In any case, the editor merely remarked that Charlie Jones would be glad, and the agitated Te Kuitian turned a horrified gaze upon him; shook his head solemnly, and waving a sad farewell, departed without further speech. As a matter of fact the man was misinformed ; the railway is merely to touch at Otorohanga, its ultimate destination being the Waitomo Caves. What it does after reaching the caves the writer is not in a position to divulge.

"Swelled head" is a serious disease, as all will admit, and it is to be sincerely hoped the King Country will retain its well known modesty despite the attentions of celebrities. _ Princes and potentates are courting it brazenly, and coquettish instincts, hitherto dormant, are in danger of being roused.

His Majesty, Mahuta, arrived at Te Kuiti, on Monday evening, his advent being signalised by the clashing of cymbals, and the strains of a brass band. Pepene Eketone refuses to believe the tune selected was " The Conquering Hero," as Henare Kaihau, M.P., formed one of the party. It is to be regretted that the Premier's visit must follow so closely upon the invasion of Mahuta, as people are apt to become blase, and indifferent to Premiers after consorting with royalty. The extent to which politics have permeated the atmosphere of the Dominion is indicated by these attentions. The Premier, let us fondly hope, is possessed with the idea of becoming acquainted with the needs and prospects of a long neglected district. Still a general election is approaching—the rest may be left to the reader's imagination. Mahuta has adherents and devoted subjects in the district, and, doubtless, his princely soul was moved to anxiety as to their welfare. However, it is possible he has seen "the writing on the wall," predicting doom to the house Pwutatau at the forthcoming election for the Maori electorate. The King's favourite is menaced at the pollingbooth. A glimpse of the- royal pageant should terrify the brazen opponent into submission. Hence the invasion. Rumour hath it that the said opponent is hiding in the wilds of Te Kuiti post-office site pending the King's departure.