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Otago Letter
Our Dunedin Representative Opens the Ball

There have been many factors which have contributed to the undoubted success of “Our” Magazine, not the least important being the many instructive articles which have appeared relative to the theory of business in its relation to the railway and its practical application thereto. These articles fulfil a necessary function in connection with the publication; nevertheless they alone cannot be expected to maintain the general interest of its readers and without the support of personal matter affecting the staff the Magazine might develop into a more or less prosaic text book. There is little more exhilarating reading than an account of events which have taken place in our immediate neighbourhood and in which we or our fellows, have played a part. It appeals to a kind of inherent frailty from which none of us is immune, and when it appears as a component part of a paper of wide circulation, we derive satisfaction from the thought that our personal insignificance is less pronounced; that, in fact, we are the cynosure for the eyes of a distinguished company. This is not mere egoism, but rather a creditable elation created by that self-respect which is the foundation of all character. With the object of fostering that personal interest which makes our publication the ready medium for the expression of our business and social life, we are informed space will be found from time to time for news items from the various districts. Otago district with its fair reputation will not be behindhand in producing its quota. The district is large, its members many, and there is a wealth of material awaiting development. Each member is heartily invited to contribute, and his contribution, if suitable, will be accepted with thanks.

The recent Exhibition was a triumph for the province and a manifestation of the potential wealth and steady industry of the whole of the Dominion. It attracted visitors from far and near. Much has been heard of the teeming thousands who came by rail in comfort. Little was heard in complaint of the accommodation provided—for small was the cause. Here are two who assisted toward the success which attended the splendid effort of the staff as a whole.