THE LATE MAJOR WITHERS.

Observer, Volume 6, Issue 141, 26 May 1883, Page 148

THE LATE MAJOR WITHERS.

There has been no death in Auckland for many years past which has evoked so much profound sorrow among all classes in the community, as that of Major Withers ; and this fact is an eloquent testimony to his worth as a soldier and a citizen, and his many social virtues. As a distinguished veteran who had rendered long and faithful service to his country, from his boyhood, up to the ripe age of 76, who had come forward in defence of his fellow-colonists at a critical juncture in the history of jN"cw Zealand, and as a commander who, while strict in the enforcement of discipline and efficiency, had won the respect of his brother volunteers by his kindness and the interest he always manifested in their welfare, he had endeared himself to all with whom his official or social duties and obligations brought him into communication. By Ins old comrades of H.M. Ooth Regt., be was" regarded with sentiments of respect and regard which almost amounted to veneration, and the letters and telegrams of condolence which have poured in from all parts of the Colony to his widow and family testify to the high respect in which lie was held, the deep sorrow at his decease, and the hearty sympathy entertained for his family and relatives. By H.R.H. the Commnncler-in-Chicf and the War Office authorities his long and arduous services were fully, if somewhat tardily, recognised, and had he been spared a few months longer he would have been the recipient of more marked and substantial rewards than those oC which lie was in the enjoyment at his death. He ended his life as he began it — us soon as he was old enough to select a career — in the discharge of duty. He died full of years and honour, and he leaves the memory of an unspotted reputation and the heritage of a bright example to his descendants. For such men, after the first pangs of sudden parting have been softened by time, there should be no sorrow. " What is death To him who meets it with an upright heart ? A quiet haven where his shattered bark Harbours secure, till the rough storm is past. Perhaps n passage, overhung with clouds But at its entrance ; n few leagues beyond Opening to kinder skies and milder suns, And seas pacific as the soul that seeks them."