'Dreaming of the old M.A.C...'

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When you speak of the old MAC. to the Maori people of today, notice- the proud look that comes into their eyes as they momentarily glance in retrospect and dream of the day when all were talking about achievements of the football team. And while yon are in the presence of one who has seen many things since those :back with him as he remembers men who sailed across the aisle from him in different classes. Men who today, because of their leadership, are individual monuments to the worth of the spirit and teachings found in the old MAC. In July, a visionary man hoarded a ship bound for Maoriland. He, too, was dreaming of the old M.A.C, but his thoughts were carry- him beyond the old edifice — . They were just beyond the horizon and he- was inspired to visualize a new edifice rising from the spirit of the old. He knew then that he was to direct his endeavours toward making that vision a reality. From the moment that that man, Tumuaki Young, assumed his responsibilities in this land as OUT Tnmnaki he has had within his heart a desire to procure the best piece of land possible which would he suitable for the erection of a new college. New Zealand, being an agricultural country,would merit a school directed primarily toward the better application of farming principles. With this thought in mind he sought a piece of land in the centrally located Waikato area. His task was a difficult one because no satisfactory land was available at the time. On his fourth visit to the land agencies he again reiterated his desire, but no land was offered for sale. Just as he was leaving the office he noticed that another man had entered, and he felt that he should voice his' quest once more. The Almighty was not to be denied: The late arrival arose and told President Young that he knew of just such a place. The property was not for sale, he explained- but the owner had previously voiced his desire for a smaller section of farmland. Such an arrangement would be better for him because his livestock would be well fed and his physical well-being would not be impaired. "Would you care to see the place some time?" he queried. Tumuaki's timely reply was favourably received by the strange man. "My car is right outside," he said, "would you have time to show me the land now?" The man assented to the request, and they quickly left the land office. As they travelled along the Tuhikaramea Road toward Mr. Meldrum's farm, President Young's senses were quickened and the spirit of M.A.C. burned stronger in his heart. A huge natural stadium met his eye, and with that first view came joy. "This is it," he mused. "This is the Place !" In that moment he knew, as he looked into the future, that the Lord had heard and that the way would be opened for the procurement of the chosen land. Mr. Meldrum listened assuringly as he heard, and visualized the noble pur- pose for which his farm would be used. He had no desire to sell his farm, he explained, but could not be one to stay in the way of such a righteous under- taking. He promised to do his best to see that his farm would be
used for the new centre of learning. As far as Mr. Meldrum was concerned the deal was closed. From now on it would be up to the Government and the Un-seen Hand. Soon President Young was in Wellington conferring with the Prime Minister and other officials concerned with land procurement. Wherever he went he was able to meet with the approval of officials concerned. The Guiding Hand was indeed near, and, irregardless of today's change of gov- ernment, we can feel assured that His presence will linger near in order that the worthy purpose . might be accomplished. Within a short time a new group of missionaries made their appearance on the land of the Kiwi. Among them was Elder Stanley A. Hall, a surveyor before his call as a missionary of the Lord. Yes,. a servant was raised up that the all-important first step could be taken. Elder Hall was set apart as Mission Surveyor in early November, 1949. Equipment and materials were soon made ready and, with Elders Richard W. Lines and J. Ralph Mantle as his assistants, Elder Hall made plans for the survey. On the beautiful, clear morning of November 17th the land was dedicated for surveying. As we worked we were constantly aware of an unseen power — a fourth person protecting our efforts, governing our actions, answering our prayers, and giving us a feeling of calmness and unity that we had never before realized. There is no greater joy than that that is found when men are in harmony with one another in the service of their Creator. Oft times our work was threatened with delays by rain, but in answer to our prayers the heavens were stayed. \^ long as we diligently pursued our course we were in perfect harmony, and the survey continued without hindrance. (Continued on Page 82)