“YOUNG BRITONS.”

Taranaki Daily News, 19 December 1921, Page 4

“YOUNG BRITONS.”

In his interesting address to the New Plymouth High School boys on Tuesday evening, Sir Bassett Edwards was very happy in his choice of a fitting theme. There is far too little recognition of the full meaning of Empire citizenship and the honor it confers on all Britons. Those interested in ascertaining the why and wherefor of most ordinary happenings cannot fail to be convinced that it is the lack of stimulus which accounts for the “taken for granted” attitude which is so generally in evidence. There can be no greater stimulus to higher and better things than true patriotism —love of home and country. The late war illustrated this in a manner beyond all comparison, and Sir Bassett Edwards did good service in reminding the High School boys, as well as the public generally, of the immense value of their birthright as members of the greatest Empire the world has ever seen, or is likely to see. It is an inspiration of service worthy of the high citizenship of such a vast Empire, and the glorious traditions and ideals that have made the unity of this world-wide federation of peoples a marvel for all time. It should be a. part of the education of all the young Britons to inculcate in them a duo sense of their great heritage. It is not. a matter that should be taken for granted, but should be the subject of diligent inquiry, for not until the growth of the Empire is understood will there be any intelligent comprehension of what the Empire stands for. One effect of such a study should be to broaden the minds and the outlook of the students, and that would lead to enlarged vision and greater sympathy, each of which needs cultivation. It is to be hoped Sir Bassett Edwards timely words of wisdom will bear good fruit, and that more attention will be paid to inculcating the patriotic spirit in the minds of scholars.