MR. HINE AT STRATFORD.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIII, Issue 133, 14 September 1910, Page 5

MR. HINE AT STRATFORD.

ENTHUSIASTIC SUPPORTERS. By Telegraph.—Press Association. Stratford, Last Night. Mr. Hine, M.P., received an ovation on his arrival at Stratford from Wellington to-night. A large number of supporters assembled at the station, including the chairman and members of his central committee. As the train drew up, three cheers were given for Mr. Hine, which were renewed as the member appeared on the carriage platform. The chairman then presented Mr. Hine with an address on behalf of the party, in appreciation of the courageous stand he had taken during the present session in his endeavour to raise the standard of public life in the Dominion. The address was as follows: —'"We desire on behalf of your supporters in this district to express to you our heartfelt appreciation of the efforts you have put forward during the present session of iParliament to uplift the public life of this Dominion. We realise to the fullest the danger that exists in the standard of. our national life becoming lowered by all right-thinking people, eventually Iby certain practices, at present abhorred becoming sanctioned by use and custom, because a few have been found ready to come forward to utter a timely word of warning and protest. The country, therefore, owes you a lasting debt of gratitude for the undaunted courage you have displayed in so boldly coming forward and endeavouring to put an end to the practices which should never be tolerated in any country where the Union Jack is flown. At the same time we would take the opportunity of expressing to you our deep sympathy in the treatment you have recently been' subjected to at the hands of some persons at present unknown. As loyal, law abiding subjects of His Majesty the ,King, we strongly resent the crime that has been committed, and most earnestly trust that the perpretrator will soon be brought to justice and receive punishment at the hands of the law which the offence deserves. Assuring you of our loyal and hearty support at all times." The address was signed on behalf of the supporters by the chairman of the committee.

In the course of a short speech in reply, Mr. Hine said he valued more highly than he could express their expressions of goodwill toward him in the stand he had taken. He could assure them that as long as he represented them in Parliament he would endeavour to live up to the oath taken on entering the House. When he could not do that, it would be time for him to leave. He realised to the full that the path chosen was bv no. means a smooth one. hut he was not going to be turned aside by any intimidation. Come what may. he would do his duty as far as he was able, faithfully and fearlessly to his constituents and country. For his part he had no fear of the result. He thanked them for the warm expressions of confidence.