The Waipukurau Press. Tuesday, June 12, 1906 THE PREMIER’S DEATH.

Waipukurau Press, Volume I, 12 June 1906, Page 2

The Waipukurau Press. Tuesday, June 12, 1906 THE PREMIER’S DEATH.

*—- What! Seddon, General of New Zealand, Of God’s Own Country, the Freeland— Dead? Aye ; he’s gone. His battles cease. Then farewell. Rest in peace.

The death of New Zealand’s Premier created a great sensation throughout the colonies, because it was unexpected. And the tact of his dying away from the land he so ably administered adds sadness to the calamity. Of late years Mr Seddon had successfully pulled through many severe illnesses, but no doubt the strain caused by the Australian meetings and gatherings was responsible for the great statesman’s untimely death—we say untimely advisedly, because Air Seddon could not be c lassed as an old man, having barely reached his 61st year; and just now active preparations were being made in Wellington to celebrate the anniversary of his birthday this month. As all the world knows, the late Premier was a great fighter in the political arena, and he has caused to become law many beneficial and praiseworthy measures. We venture to say there were many moist eyes in this land when the news became known, for Mr Seddon held a warm place in the hearts of the people. His death is a bad thing for this country, and the result of it would be hard to foretell. The late Premier had done much, but he had a great deal more to do. Is there anyone capable and willing to cafry on the work ? While Mr Seddon held the reins of the State coach all classes of the community felt secure, for they knew “ Dick” the driver would select the best road. “ A national calamity,” very truly. His was a strenuous life, and he wore his big heart away for the people. AV hat a shock, too, his death must be to the aged folks, for whom he toiled so hard ! “ New Zealand first ” was ever the late statesman’s motto. When leaving Sydney, Mr Seddon appeared to be in fair health, and it is possible that the sudden relaxation from a period of great energy and excitement may account for the heart failure. A mead of consolation is the fact that his devoted wife and some of their children were with him at the last moment- The Ist May was the fourteenth anniversary of Mr Seddon Premiership—a record This feeble effort is written by one who on occasions had come into personal contact with Mr Seddon, but who thinks the ablest pen in New Zealand could hardly do the late statesman justice.