DIGIT OF DISTINCTION

NZ Truth, Issue 1205, 3 January 1929, Page 4

DIGIT OF DISTINCTION

ON the hands of human achievement, whether cultural or industrial, are a number of fingers markedly different from their neighbors. Ono may detect a similarity m outward construction, but the secondary tegument which lies beneath the surface may disclose surprising qualities. Of Sir James Henry Gunson it may be said that while he is not overwhelmingly popular, at least he wasquite well liked as mayor of Auckland city, an office which he had occupied— almost unchallenged, one might say — since the beginning of the Great Flare of the nations. The somewhat austere, yet commanding front which he adopts may be the. shield behind which he hides his true self, and (as is often the case) through its agency is best able to conduct his life affairs. Conversely, it may be the earthworks which often are thrown up by the instruments of success, for Sir James certainly, has' been most successful m almost everything he has essayed to complete. Habitues of the National Park at Tongariro owe much to this knighted zealot of scenic reserves, who built himself, a home there, and now dreams of the new hostel he has set his heart upon seeing built amid the garden. Truly, a first digit of distinction. tlllllllllljlllllllllllllllllllll!^