Confidence in Future.

He felt very deeply the responsibility that rested upon him in the matter, and so, he knew, did Mr. E. Casey, Divisional Superintendent, and other officers. They came to the public in the spirit of service that was exemplified by the Commerce Train. All he asked of the public was to think clearly upon the transport problem and see where the railways stood in relation to economic and industrial life.

“I say that the railways are going to pay, in the only sense in which that statement can have any rational interpretation in a country situated in the position in which New Zealand is in relation to its railways, that is, in the giving of the transport services essential to the needs of the people at the lowest possible cost, and if we are able to solve the problems of co-ordinating the various branches of transport, the future of my officers and myself is absolutely assured,” continued Mr. Sterling. “I ask you to set aside passion, and not to be led away by catch-cries or prejudice. I feel sure the railways will stand, according as the problem of transport is made clearer and clearer by the closely co-ordinated thinking of all sections of the community, and that is the lesson of the Commerce Train. That is why I and my officers have rejoiced that the Auckland Chamber of Commerce and Mr. W. J. Collins, Secretary of the Department of Industries and Commerce, who was the originator of the idea, have rendered us the greatest service possible by giving us the opportunity to demonstrate in a tangible way that we are here for service to do the best we can to give you what you want—that is, adequate transport for your goods at the lowest possible rate, and, as regards the transport of passengers, all that makes for comfort.

“We aim to do that. We are here to give you 100 per cent. of service. With less than that you will not be satisfied, and neither will we.”