Hunua Public Hall.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 5, Issue 218, 17 October 1916, Page 3

Hunua Public Hall.

|TO THE EDITOB.I Sir, —Sorry I have been so long in writing you again re the Hunua Public Hall but I heard that two scribes were responding to my previous letter, so I decided I would bide my time. I think those two scribes should have held a consultation as they both contradict one another—unintentionally I suppose, but what a splendid loophole for me. We will start with Shareholder's letter. He says the hall was built by shareholders or settlers' sons. Well, we know all that, and I have been asked to contribute a £1 and become a shareholder of an institution that really should be a public concern. I cant see my way clear as I couldn't possibly join a " Brotherhood "of that calibre. The Tom, Bill, Jack and Harry referred to sounds " toney," but what a scatching remark for shareholder to make to the general public who are asked to patronise such a charitable institution as the Hunua " Public " Hall.

Then as regards Mr F. Lockwood's letter—a very good letter too and what a pity it is that I have got to " chop "it up. He says that he is writing to protect the public from any misunderstanding. The public understand only too well. His previous letter I overlooked purposely. I can't call to mind all that was in it, but this much I do remember. He stated that the hall committee refunded 10s for something or other and another 5s for a patriotic concert in aid of the Belgian Fund, making a refund of a whole 15s for concerns which I believe they never had a hand in. It is suggested that I have been guilty of " pulling wool over" public eyes by stating that the hall was built by shareholders. Just fancy that. I can't make it out at all as " Shareholder "distinctly says he would like me to pay a£l to join the brotherhood. Who am Ito believe ? This is supposed to be a public hall built by shareholders. Some of the settlers gave posts and blocks and site and free labour. Good old settlers ! I presume when trustees were elected they undertook their duties for the public, but the shareholders have collared them now. What I mentioned in my last letter is absolutely true, viz , that the only trustee now living in Hunua is willing to surrender his duties as a " private trustee " and turn the hall over to the public. I stated that the hall was clear of debt, and it is. At one time it was heavily in debt, but the public were called on to wipe it off. Perhaps I was a bit sarcastic in my previous letter about the " boys." But I ought not to throw stones as they are apt to hurt Fancy a man like you, Mr Lockwood, holding such honourable and responsible positions throwing mud at me because I have not gone to the war. Did it ever occur to you that all your committee are eligible ? But I dont suppose the State will interfere with them as they hold too

responsible a position as a committee of the Hunua Private Hall.— I am, etc. D.M. Hunua.