LORD RANFURLY’S MESSAGE.

Gisborne Times, Volume VII, Issue 432, 3 June 1902, Page 1

LORD RANFURLY’S MESSAGE.

SUGGESTED MEMORIAL. By Telegraph—Press Association. Auckland, last night. At the Governor’s request, the follow* ing is forwarded to all papers : —“ Now that peace has been declared, the question of raising some suitable memorial to those who have lost their lives in South Africa is worthy of consideration. There is no doubt that statues, fountains, memorial windows in churches, tablets, etc., will all be thought of and discussed, but though all these may beautify and civilise our country, they are of no real good to the community. _ I venture, therefore, to suggest that a fitting memorial would be one that would for time on end benefit the living. What more suitable than a real homo for old soldiers and sailors, so arranged that husband and wife, partners of many years, who should not be separated—a home which should be for the deserving veteran, who in his declining years has insufficient means to live on in fair comfort. Some New Zealanders, though young men, are incapacitated from gaining a living, and there can be no question that such a home as I desire to see established would be a great boon. If the people of New Zealand sympathise with the old veterans and incapacitated New Zealanders, let them form local committees an I start to collect funds to carry out this sohems. The funds can be specially allocated as the committees may desire, such as for the support of one cottage or one bed, or for building purposes. Should the public deem my suggestion worthy of support, I shall try to obtain material assistance from the Mother Country, as many of the present veterans (a majority of those who would in the first instance benefit by the home) are Imperial soldiers and sailors who have the proud honor of holding every medal from the year 1844 to the present day. Such a home is really wanted for Imperial pensioners and old ago pensioners. These people are not beyond want, when one considers five shillings at least per week is the cost of house rent. The details are a matter for after consideration, but the eventual managing committee should, under any circumstances, be composed of those who have served their country. I earnestly hope that all lovers of our Empire may consider this matter and give their quota to help make the last days of the Empire’s old servants as happy as possible.—l have the honor, etc., Baxi'crly.”