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The King's Illlness

The King's illness is a matter of grave concern to all New Zealand railwaymen.

At the time of writing the gallant fight our Sovereign is making against the encroachment of malady is touching the finest fibres of sympathy and evoking respect and admiration throughout the Empire and beyond. His courage in trial is such as was to be expected from one whose example throughout the years of war and reconstruction has been a never-failing inspiration to his people.

The human touch supplied by news that the King, despite his serious condition, maintained the keenest interest in the progress of the first Test Match in Australia shows how responsive he is to the spirit of his people. That match meant more than a mere game to Old England. Its outcome would prove to the Homeland, more satisfyingly than the best trade figures could, its complete recovery from the War.

What everyone would wish is that in this season of family reunions—not the least amongst the features that make Christmas dear to the human heart—the reunion of the Royal Family may be blessed by the restoration to health of our Sovereign. Nothing could add more completely to the joy of the people of the Dominion than a Christmas cheered in this way.