FROM THE WATCH TOWER

Sun (Auckland), Volume III, Issue 885, 31 January 1930, Page 8

FROM THE WATCH TOWER

Ely

“THE LOOK-OUT MAN.”

HAPPY DAYS “Thank you very much, and a happy New Year,” said an old man, when Mr. F. K. Hunt, S.M., imposed no punishment on him at the Police Court.- —News item. "A Happy New Year!” the ancient cried as the S.M. set him free. “A Uaxipy New Year, and thanks very much!” A merry old lad was he. The seasonal quip was a trifle late, but the good intent was clear: "Am I discharged ? Oh, thanks very much, and, likewise, happy New Year!” Now, this is a practice quaint and new but worthy of full support, ’Twould bring- an air of friendly cheer to a sombre city court. And think of all the happy remarks a happy S.M. would hear If every defendant thanked the Bench and wished it "Happy New Year." —M.E. THE VERDICT From Rotorua conies a report of court proceedings in which three enthusiastic women were charged with employing illegal tactics in the taking of fish. According to the evidence, a long-handled fork was being used with effect after the prey was enticed near the bank. However, there was a conflict of statements, and the magistrate was left to decide. “I will give the defendants the benefit of the doubt,” lie said, “on the distinct understanding that they must not do it again.” This pleasing example of Justice tempered with mercy might, one feels, have been expressed a little differently. MAORIS’ FRIEND Probably no man has done more to perpetuate Maori customs and characteristics, particularly as applied to music, than Mr. Alfred Hill, the distinguished composer, who at present is paying a visit to Auckland. He speaks the native tongue exceedingly well, and has made a close study of Maori customs, while his Maori songs and melodies are widely known and loved. Recently he spent some time with Mr. Alexander Marky, the film producer, and the possibility that he will write a special musical score for Mr. Narky’s forthcoming Maori film is an exceedingly happy one. THE PENNY HAKA While in Rotorua Mr. Hill found time to renew his-close acquaintance with the various features of the geyser town. One day he was approached by three little Maori maids who made the usual and rather monotonous proposal, “A haka for a penny.” Impelled by a boyish imp of mischief, Mr. Hill retorted in Maori, “Why, I can do a better haka than you. Suppose I perform and you give me the pennies?” Whereupon he set to and gave a vigorous and rather inspiring display. His reward came when the girls, with open-mouthed appreciation, handed him a whole handful of pennies. “Now,” he said, “you do one.” They did their best and, solemnly, he handed the pennies back, plus a little interest. Some day three Maori women will shake their heads and say: “Remember when the composer of ‘Waiata Poi’ did a haka for our coppers? Poor fellow! There couldn’t have been much money in the song-writing business.”

* * * EASY PICKINGS Though the Hon. W. B. Taverner's promise that free school books will be provided for children of penniless parents is robbed of much glamour by the disclosure that such a practice has been in vogue since the time of Seddon, the idea may commend itself to others. With a little luck, members of Cabinet might secure th“ applause of a forgetful multitude every week or so. For instance:— Hon. A. J. Stallworthy (importantly) : I am pleased to announce that, despite the difficulties caused by the procrastination of former administrations, the United Government has arranged for the medical inspection of ships arriving in New Zealand from overseas. (Sighs of public relief.) Hon. J. G. Cobbe (broadcasting from 2YA): The time has come when the Dominion must have a volunteer or territorial army. All young men will be glad to learn that training will begin early this year. (Murmurs of parental satisfaction.) Hon. H. Atmore (smilingly): Electors will be glad to learn that a grant for free and compulsory education may be included in next years’ Estimates. (Cheers and cries of “Bravo!”) Hon. W. A. Veitch (sturdily): New Zealand workers are to benefit from United statesmanship. We intend to make immediate provision for a Do-minion-wide eight-hour day. (Screams of joy and shouts of “United for ever!”) Sir Thomas Sidey (modestly): There is every possibility that the representations of the present Government may result in the benefits of the Habeas Corpus Act being extended to this country. (Broken mumblings of gratitude mingled with awe-struck whispers of “Uniteds for Justice,” and “Thank God for Better Government.”)