Salvation in Personal Leadership.

The railways had to meet a most difficult position in New Zealand. It had always been difficult, owing to the physical lay out of the Dominion. This has made sea competition easily available in certain parts, and had made short hauls over heavy grades—due to the land configuration—an important feature in transportation. “But,” continued Mr. Valentine, “the Prime Minister had now called to the control of the Department the outstanding man in New Zealand—outstanding by natural ability, by education, and by experience—Mr. H. H. Sterling.” (Continued applause.) “What the Railways need he will give them, namely, personal leadership, the qualities of which he possesses in an outstanding degree. In turn every officer in the Department holding a controlling position should possess leadership qualifications—there should not be too much referring to Wellington.”

Mr. Valentine went on to say that he believed Mr. Sterling would give the utmost freedom to officers under him in carrying out the general policy of the Department, and he assured him of the best assistance that the Accountancy Branch could give. (Applause.).

(Mr. Sterling's reply is reported on pp. 14–15.)

Other toasts honoured were “Superannuated Members,” proposed by Mr. Sterling and responded to in a thoughtful and appreciative speech by Mr. Lowe (of “N.Z. Dairyman”), and with much humour by Mr. Curtis; “The Chief Accountant's Branch,” proposed by Mr. G. T. Wilson and responded to by Messrs. Bishop and Dolan; and “The Visitors,” proposed by Mr. J. Dayman and responded to by several of the guests. Community singing and several excellent concert items contributed to the evening's enjoyment.