THE GERALDINE ELECTION.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1205, 17 July 1884, Page 2

THE GERALDINE ELECTION.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, — There are some of the electors of Geraldine inclined to think that there will be a close contest at the corning election between the two candidates, ft is generally acknowledged that Mr Rolleston is the best man, therefore he certainly ought to be returned. Should he be defeated it will be on the question of education. Mr Rolleston is decided and determined to give the National system of education a fair trial and carry it out in its entirety, On the

otiier hand, Mr Cox promises to try and assist the different denominations. The Catholics, for instance, are most anxious to have their own schools, and doubtless every other denomination would wish the same thing, but the country can’t afford it. I have spoken to several Catholics on the subject, who tell me if they build their own schools the Government ought to assist them. The first question I ask them is, Can they, the Catholics, afford to build and maintain as many schools as bur Government have built, and are building ? Answer, No. Next question is, Do you wish your children educated ? Yes. third question, If a Roman Catholic school is built at Geraldine and you are residing say six miles from that school, and have a National school within three miles, will you send your children to Geraldine ? Answer, No. They then come to the conclusion —I never thought of that. Is not this a clear proof that if the children in New Zealand are to bo educated at the expense of the country Mr Rolleston’s views are right, and that the National system of education should not be interfered with but allowed a fair trial. If you give a grant to one denomination you must give it to all, and consequently break up the present system of National education which is approved of bya very large majority of the inhabitants of New Zealand. Therefore “don’t,” if you consider the interests of the country, reject one of the best public men in New Zealand on a question you have not properly considered.—l am, etc., War. Upton Slack. July 14th, 1584.