THE MAYORALTY.

Taranaki Daily News, 19 April 1919, Page 4

THE MAYORALTY.

When Mr. Burgess announced. Lis intention of not seeking re-election as Mayor there was a feeling that, after the very strenuous period of his occupancy of the position, it would be hardly fair to press him to continue his civic activities, more especially as it involved a further strain on Mrs. Burgess, who has been in the forefront of every patriotic movement during the war, not only untiring in her efforts, but stimulating others in the ever-mlemorable work that taxed the energies of the No eulogy that we could bestow would adequately express the debt of obligation which the citizens of New Plymouth owe to Mr. and Mrs. Burgess for what they have accomplished in the most critical period of the Empire's history. New Plymouth has every reason to be gratified that it had the good fortune to have as its mayor and mayoress such splendid organisers and workers, whose example alone was an inspiration to the community, who naturally asked: How can we fill the gap if Mr. and Mrs. Burgess retire from their present civic position? As the time for the election drew near this question became more and more acute, especially in view of the peace celebratioas and the visit of prominent Imperial personages to the Dominion. No successors possessing such exceptional qualifications were in sight, so, at the risk of imposing further burdens on Mr. and Mrs. Burgess, there was no alternative but to press them to continue their civic, work. The large and influential deputation which waited on the Mayor with this aim in view was ably led by Mr. Johnstone, who put the position in its true light and so convincingly that Mr. Burgess was induced to comply with the request. We unhesitatingly assert that the decision will

5e most heartily welcomed by the though at large, and, though continuuice of office will entail further demands >n ilr. and Mrs. Burgess, they will, we ■>'« sure, be given whole-hearted assist>uce by the citizens, whose confidence,

esteem and appreciation will be intensified by this further proof of goodwill to the community. Only those who carry out the endless work attaching to the mayoralty can have any conception of the many sacrifices involved therein, and we heartily congratulate the residents of the borough on again having the services of Mr. and Mrs. Burgess at the head of the municipality.