A MATTER OF DUTY.

Taranaki Daily News, 31 October 1922, Page 4

A MATTER OF DUTY.

At the High School Old Boys’ re-union on Saturday evening, the principal of the High School referred in eulogistic terms to the success achieved, and being achieved, by old boys of the school in the scholastic, scientific and other fields of endeavor. His references were thoroughly justified, for the success of the boys is bringing credit upon the school, the masters, and the whole province. The people of Taranaki are naturally—and pardonably—proud of the achievements of the boys and of the school that is producing such results. But it would be better pleased if some of the older boys who are now holding responsible positions in Taranaki and elsewhere manifested a keener interest in the public life of the community. This aspect was rightly stressed by Mr. Moyes on the occasion in question. He asked the old boys to “set an example to the town.” They should, he continued, go on the various public bodies, which aimed at improving the town and district. So far as he could see old boys were not doing this. In drawing attention to this neglected duty the headmaster is performing a distinct service to the coftimunity. The -boys who have had the advantage of a course of education and training at such a splendid school as the New Plymouth High School is, have a responsibility all the greater because of their superior education and training, yet, as the principal pointed out, they have not recognised that responsibility in the past or are recognising it to-day. If the names of those taking part in the public life of Taranaki to-day are scanned, there will be found very few of the old boys’. Why is it so? They are the best able to render service, and if they had a proper conception of their duty to their fellows and their country, they would gladly come forward, and at least offer to help.. No excuse of being too busy in their own work or efforts of advancement can be Accepted as valid, nor can a submission that they have no inclination or ability for public service. Few accept public responsibilities for the love of it. Those who do are not generally the most desirable or successful. The great majority act purely from a sense of public duty. New Plymouth, for instance, would be all the better if the old boys came forward and took an active interest in matters other than the various branches of sport. They would remove a reproach, afford a fine advertisement for the school that conferred on them such great advantages, and prove of greater service to the community We only hope Mr. Moyes’ timely advice will he acted upon, and that Whenever opportunity offers they will come forward, not as a favor, but as a matter of plain duty.