Popularity Test

Sun (Auckland), Volume IV, Issue 1065, 1 September 1930, Page 12

Popularity Test

Whenever the Australian whisky magnates—Tom Campbell, Allan Box, Warwick Armstrong, and Johnny Ruthven—breast the bar, the woman dispenser first finds which of the bunch is shouting, and then produces a bottle of the brand he represents. It is considered a breach of etiquette to call for any other brand during that session, says the “Referee.” On a Monday preparatory to one of the many meetings now being held over sales-tax, primage, excise, and kindred matters, Tom Campbell and Allan Box walked into the Australia. In Tom’s eye there was that light that shines in every Scotman’s eye when he has decided to shout. But contrary to the rules, the lady put down a bottle of “White Horse.” “Haven’t you any Dewar’s?” asked the White Horse man. “No,” said the woman, “we’ve sold right out. This is the next best!” Tom didn’t quite know whether to be pleased with the evidence of his whisky’s popularity or annoyed at the loss of a sale, while Allan’s pleasure at an extra sale was discounted by {he second prize awarded by Hebe. Just then Warwick Armstrong hove in sight (“Hove” is the right world). “Have you any ‘Black and White?’” asked Tom. “Yes, lots!” said the woman, and Warwick doesn't know yet why they all laughed.