With the passing of M. J. Savage the University, together with the people of N.Z., has been bereft of a sincere friend.

A year ago "Salient" had the pleasure of publishing a personal message to the students from the late Prime Minister, a message in which were crystallised the principles and personal qualities of this modest humanitarian. In a few words Mr. Savage expressed his attitude towards higher education, believing as he did that education and enlightenment were to be the basis of the system of society, towards which he so earnestly aspired - "I cannot imagine any greater quality in man or woman than that of a broad mind always open to new ideas". Under his leadership the Labour Govt. has given every consideration to the creation of such a state of mind, in the assistance of students of both the University and the Training Colleges.

He was truly a man of unchallengeable motives, so like all Social Democrats in his generous underestimation of the power and resourcefulness of the forces arrayed against him, and Christ-like in his belief in the innate goodness of his fellow beings. And although there may be room to doubt whether New Zealand will, in the long run, be the better off for his term of office, all with any judgement of human qualities will agree, that the world is in need of more statesmen with hearts as big as his.

R. G. S.