RE PARENT’S LETTER.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XL, Issue 1863, 13 August 1918, Page 3

RE PARENT’S LETTER.

(To the Editor.) Sir. —1 have very carefully considered this matter from all points of view, and I cannot agree with “Parent.” There are certainly some bad features about children subscribing to a fund, hut the good greatly outweighs the had, and even the had features can he used by (lie teacher as an object lesson for correction. AVhat is the good of quoting old history? It does not apply to the present time, for we know that Mr Fnrrie is not likely to he so indiscreet as to hold up to approbation the child who is able to give more than his fellows. “Parent” is also in error. I was secretary of the School Committee when the episode lie mentioned occurred, and I do not remember any “Parent” bringing the matter before the Coinmil lee. Anyway, we have our meelings on the Ist Mondny in every, month, nml if “Parent,” or any one else likes to conn l along, we shall he very pleased to see them. 1 am sure we can quite safely leave such matters to the discretion of our headmaster, for in him we have n teacher who believes in inculcating patriotism in the truest and best sense of the word —the foundation on which is sacrifice and charily. The skilful teacher, by asking children to subscribe to a good cause, has an opportunity of instilling into their minds what he eotdd not otherwise do. He could poiiit out that every child should give within its means. The one who was able to give most should not la l the cause of envy; nor should he in turn despise his less fortunate mate. Ail gp'is should *e obtained honestly, and nil the bet' if same is obtained through saeriliee or doing some service. “Parent” Ims also a duty. If he cannot afford to give more limn Id, end the child wants f*d, he should point out the same lessons, and be Irntbl'm and candid with the child. 4ns!mu] of allowing the child to cause trouble in the house, and being fretful and petty, he should rale the child, and not allov. tho child to rah.', him, for spoilt children make petty and dissatisfied adults.—-I am. etc., R. MeMURRAY.