MR HORNSBY'S SOCIALISM.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXX, Issue 8489, 17 July 1907, Page 6

MR HORNSBY'S SOCIALISM.

(To the . Sir^ln'7'our - to-day's issue you publish a letter from Mr J. T. M. Hornsby, M.H.R., in answer to Mr Wilks, and while in the main agreeing with Mr Hornsby's views, the question often occurs to me as to whether one's attitude, when Socialism has been embraced, should still continue the same as hitherto. We hear a great deal about Christianity and its various interpretations, but when we look at the churches to-day and read the Life of Jesus, its simplicity and its self-abnegation we see the difference between the real and the spurious. We know that had Christ's teachings not been perverted and had been kept clear of paganism our Christianity to-day would have been a real thing, instead of the hybrid article that is presented. Dr. Glasse is one who has recognised this, and has endeavoured both in the pulpit, in the Assembly, and by lectures to get the people on the right track. Unlike the average minister he goes to the source for his fundamentals, whereas almost invariably Paul is accepted. This can be* proven by anyone. You will find the average minister preaching from the Gospel according to Paul in 99 cases out of 100 instead of Christ s teachings. Now, Sir, what I wanted more particularly to ask is. should one's actions or attitude change? or should we look for a change in others when they accept Socialism? If John Glasse has revealed some truths to Mr Hornsby we would like to see that change in his actions and attitude. If we are to go on oblivious to this change, merely acting as hitherto, then no good will result. Socialism presents views of life that entail a change of view on its votaries. Therefore the true Socialist finds his previous views arrested, the old outlook and view will not fit in with Socialism. lie has, therefore, to take his bearings anew, and adjust his compass accordingly. Has Mr Hornsby done this? Reading his confession of faith in the House gave me much pleasure indeed; but 1 was grieved to note a couple of days or so later that Mr Hornsby voted against Sir W. J. Steward's Bill to elect Councillors to the Legislative Council; sarely a Democratic if not a Socialistic step. Lord Salisbury, himself, once said: "We were all Socialists now," but that did not prevent him_ continujng to act as previously, and I am sure he was never twitted by anyone for being a Socialist. So that if Mr Hornsby would wish to justify his faith his deeds must show it. Mere words are of no use, neither are professions. These only tend to confusion. No one who understands what Socialism means can be hypnotised by such professions, unless backed up by actions consonant with them. It may be that Mr Hornsby is adjusting his compass, and we may look forward to his pursuing a changed course in future. —I am, etc., G.D. Masterton, July 13th, 1907.