Page:The life and letters of Sir John Henniker Heaton bt. (IA lifelettersofsi00port).pdf/75

 in opening bazaars, laying foundation-stones, attending flower-shows, and all the multitudinous duties that fall to the lot of a Member. His love for the old city was reciprocated in many loyal hearts. He had friends in every walk of life, and many were the people who could speak of kindnesses shown them during the twenty-six years in which he was their representative.

H. H. was never too busy to answer their letters in person, to secure an opening for some son or daughter; to assist the emigration of a family; or do the thousand and one little acts of kindness that do so much to ease the burden of life. His cheery presence and hearty greeting were known and loved throughout the city.

Among the pleasantest of H. H.'s associations with Kent must be recorded his Presidency of the Men of Kent and Kentish Men. The Association was formed in 1898, with Lord Harris as first President, and on his resignation in 1904 he was succeeded by H. H. Never had a President a more loyal body of supporters, and during his years of office the membership grew from hundreds to as many thousands. Branches were formed in all parts of the Empire, forming yet another link between the old country and her dependencies.

When the battle cruiser H.M.S. "Kent" was commissioned, the Men of Kent and Kentish Men signalized their interest by presenting a magnificent shield to the ship. In response to an appeal from Captain D. A. Gamble, the Maids of Kent embroidered a silken ensign. "They may depend upon us," said Captain Gamble, "to keep it flying and never haul it down in dishonour." Words literally fulfilled when, on December 8th, 1914, Captain J. D. Allen, flying the