Page:Old Westland (1939).pdf/254

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Old Westland

half, so that they might more readily help each other in emergency. These are instances of the ever-ready willingness to help the settlers of the out of way places with conditions to improve their lot, and assist to aid the progress of the back country.

“Mr. Seddon played a very full part in his sojourn in New Zealand. First as pioneer miner and storekeeper, he passed on to local advocate and public man. Always a ready speaker, he began many a new movement, winning support where often strong opposition had first to be overcome. He was a painstaking worker, yet considerate for those about him. A fast friend and a loyal supporter where need demanded. The maintenance of the prestige of the country and its advancement were ever in his mind. A rare command of men where action was needed, and in emergency a quick thinker and prompt in action. Indeed, a man of many parts, whose qualities endeared him to all. Loyal himself, he received loyalty from his followers in return, and so held his place in undisturbed challenge to the close of a brilliant, busy career, which has left its mark on the country’s methods of progress. Westland, in the first place, was fortunate in attracting Mr. Seddon to its territory, where so much experience and training fitted him for the higher destiny he was to fulfil. For that reason, and the memory of his great