MAURICEVILLE AND THE MINISTER

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume XVI, Issue 4990, 1 April 1895, Page 2

MAURICEVILLE AND THE MINISTER

(From Our Own Correspondent). The deputation from Mauricoville which waited on tho Minister of Lands with so much success a few days since, marked their sense of the Minister's courtesy, by inviting him to spend a few days at Mauriceville. The angnst "Mac" paled perceptibly at this latest evidence of his popularity, but nevertheless, graciously accepted the invitation without betraying too plainly that he wished to Heaven he could—with honor to himself and Mauriceville—resign his portfolio on the spot. The exact date of his visit, is not fixed but preparations are already in progress to receive him in a manner worthy of his exalted station. Hitherto Mauriceville has enjoyed an immunity from the Ministerial presence, since the political upheaval live years ago, and in this respect might almost be regarded as holy ground,

_Mr Seddon, indeed, on ono occasion did step on to our railway platform for the space of about two seconds. He was, of course, promptly waited on—and by an old friend too-but the prime man of the State took refuge in his carriage and sent his priyate secretary to find what the man wanted. The secretary shewed himself equal to the occasion; Briskly stepping on the platform he covertly signalled the guard to get the train away as quickly as possible, after which he blandly asked the deputation what he coulddoforhim. But before the Premier's quondam friend had even time to enquire what was the matter with " Dick," the train with a shriek was on its way to Eketahuna. Since then the Premier has passed through Mauricevillo many times, but always by special train, and always at night, and—l may add—always at top speed! And now the Minister of Lands is going to make the amende honourable for past •Ministerial neglect, it istobe hoped, that he will 'carry away a good impression of the district,-■' ■"• J