Lost book reunited with high school

A PIECE OF HISTORY: Maryanne Macintosh, (Left), Sacred Heart College Library Manager; Steve Bryan, Principal, reunited with a stolen book that was returned after 60 years. PHOTO/DUNCAN BROWN.

After 61 years, a book "secreted" into a toolbox has been returned to the unsuspecting owners.

It is a secret that has a led a mystery man to confess his sins - albeit in a letter addressed to the principal.

Sacred Heart College received a welcome surprise in the form of a book; J. G Wilson's 'History of Hawke's Bay', published in 1939, along with photos of the book in it's disrepair, the original front cover and a letter detailing his deep contrition.

Sacred Heart College principal, Steve Bryan thought it was a beautiful sentiment.

"It is an amazing tale of a young apprentice who stole a book and a beautiful example of the character of people and what's important to people. Value of honesty and integrity is certainly not lost."

In 1956, the apprentice electrician, who was working for a day at Sacred Heart College, "worked for a little in the library and found a book which I found most interesting."

In the letter it goes on to say, "I regret to say that I secreted it into my toolbox and took it home with me and I have had guilt ever since. In actual fact it is the only thing that I can remember stealing and I think this is due to my guilt from that occasion."

"I sincerely hope that you can forgive me for my action and that it's return will help you do this... Naturally I do not wish to reveal my name or details as I am not proud of my dishonesty for this crime."

Prior to returning the now 79 year old book, the man "decided to have it restored by a professional expert who suggested it should be restored to a condition representing its age rather than to a new condition."

In monetary terms, the book is believed to be about $100.

Mr Bryan said the man was obviously a history buff or interested in the history of his town and was keen to share the tale to staff and students.