MR. W. F. MASSEY.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2586, 21 August 1909, Page 5

MR. W. F. MASSEY.

A NATIONAL TESTIMONIAL

(Per Press Association.) AUCKLAND; August *2O

The national testimonial to Mr. W. F. Massey, M.P., Leader of the Opposition, was presented to-night at the Choral Hall, in the presence of a crowded gathering, by Mr. Jus. Allen, M.P. for Bruce. The greatest enthusiasm prevailed. There were present a large number of M.P.’s and ex-M.P.’s, Mr. W. Lang, M.P., presiding. The testimonial consisted of a cheque for 1000 guineas, a grandfather’s clock, a set of table silver and a diamond bracelet for Mrs. Massey. The chairman referred to the unanimity of the testimonial subscribers. In making the presentation, Mr. Allen paid high eulogies to Mr. Massey as a patriot, a politician, a legislator, and a man. He declared that, had Mr. Massey liked, he could have been not only a Minister, but the Premier. Always, however, he had refused to be an office-seeker, and had been honest to the people and the Dominion. Mr W. H. Herries, M.P., paid a glowing tribute to his chief, and said that- the testimonial was the most spontaneous exhibition of approval ever given to a statesman in New Zealand. Mr. W. C. Buchanan, M.P., predicted that Mr. Massey would become Premier by the grace of the people. Messrs F. M. B. Fisher, D. H. Guthrie, and D. Buick. M.P.’s; and Mr. R. Monk, formerly M.P. for W aitemata, also spoke eulogising Mr. Massey. On rising to respond, the Leader of the Opposition was roundly cheered. He feelingly thanked the people of New Zealand for their magnificent testimonial. In the course of a vigorous speech he claimed that the Opposition stood for honest administration, prosperity, and progress. Criticising the Government, he declared that the.country was heartily sick of the policy of talk and taihoa. (Applause.-) The lands, public works, railways, and general policy of the Government were now under review. Mr. Massey particularly lamented the fact that some of our best young men were leaving to procure land in Queensland. They ought, he said, be able to get it here. He hoped that the new Parliament would meet and got to work soon. The Leader of the Opposition returned thanks on behalf of his wife, and concluded amidst prolonged cheers.