Superanuated Railwaymen.

Soon after their names disappear from the classification list the majority of the one-time members of the service are lost to railway view. Outside of their own circle of acquaintances they may be quite forgotten until perhaps, in reminiscent mood, a present-day member vaguely inquires as to what has become of “so and so,” and thus awakens the dormant human interest in the welfare of past members.

Keenly and contentedly tending a well-kept garden in Wanganui East and participating in “Drake's” pastime in season, is Mr. J. E. Armstrong (a former District Traffic Manager). He still maintains that erect figure and sprightly appearance which characterised him in the days of his railway career.

Another ex-member, Mr. J. Cooper, is keeping away physical and mental rust by giving to the Castlecliff Railway Company the benefits of his wide and varied experience as a railway officer.

Mr. Cooper saw much service in numerous positions in both islands, and at the time of his retirement was Chief Traffic Clerk at Wanganui. He is now in charge of the above Company's transport system, but still displays a keen and enthusiastic interest in the doings of the Department which he served during the greater part of his life.

Mr. W. Robb, who, up to a couple of years ago, was Inspector of Permanent Way in the middle district, is also settled in Taranaki. Deeming that Wanganui, with its world-famed river, Bastia tower, Sargeant's Art Gallery and other notable attractions, was most suited to his health and well-being, he came to Gonville and stayed there, tilling the land, and occasionally dropping into the city to chortle over his ability as a horticulturist.

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