AN INSULTING TELEGRAM

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIII, Issue 215, 20 December 1910, Page 8

AN INSULTING TELEGRAM

FLOrXDER BOUNDER GETS FREE "AD.

It was announced' recently that the Government had decided to instal a fish-smoking depot at Rotorua to prevent the waste of trout that was going on. An Auckland fishmonger made application to the Government Engineer for a supply of fresh trout. Receiving no reply, he despatched the following telegram to the Prime Minister:—

'•'Sir Joseph Ward, Fishmonger, Rotorua.—Can you supply iresh trout delivered Auckland? Reply collect, stating price and quantity daily.—A. Sanford." The reply was brief and to the point. "A. Sanford, Auckland.—Your unwarranted impertinent communication requires no answer from me.—J. G. Ward."

Sanford was, of course, interviewed by the reporter of the local Herald. He said: If the Government is in the fish trade he is the head of the show, and I apply to him as chief fishmonger in the country. I must do that if he does not appoint a subordinate who will act. The people are worrying me every day for trqut. He is the chief fishmonger till he appoints someone else. I don't know anyone who has been appointed to take his place, so I address him. I wanted trout, and had to take extreme measures to-get it. If I cannot get the information from him, I will deal with the Minister for Marine; Mr. Millar.