PRESENTATION TO MR WESTENRA.

Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume 3, Issue 241, 8 November 1878, Page 2

PRESENTATION TO MR WESTENRA.

In a late issue we referred to the contemplated departure from amongst us of Mr A. H. Westenra, agent for the Bank of New Zealand. The numerous friends of that gentleman, and those with whom he has been brought into contact during his residence here, desiring to show their esteem and good wishes at the present time, determined to make him a little present as a souvenir of his residence in Akaroa. The article selected was a silver tea and coffee service consisting of four pieces The design and execution of the articles are most elegant and artistic, and reflect great credit on the manufacturers, Messrs Coates and Co., Christchurch, and also on the good taste of Mr Fenton, who was deputed to choose the present to be made. The following inscription is neatly engraved on ono of the articles : —" Presented to Arthur H. Westenra aa a mark of esteem and respect from the inhabitants of Banks Peninsula. November, 1878."

The presentation took place on Wednesday evening last, at Bruce's Hotel, several of the subscribers to tho /rift assembling for the purpose. Mr 11. (i. Watkins said he had been asked to perform a very pleasing duty, which was to request Mr Westenra's acceptance of this little present. On theso occasions it was difficult to say anything new. He had known Mr Westenra for sis years, and during that time he believed that that gentleman had gained the respect of all the inhabitants of the Peninsula. He considered tho success of the Bank of New Zealand in Akaroa to be due in a great measure to the kindness and uniform courtesy always received from Mr Westenra. He did not know who had originated the idea, but Mr Jb'enton had taken an active part in carrying it out. The choice of the article had devolved on him, and in exercising it he had not forgotten Mrs Westenra. He had great pleasure in presenting the tea and coffee service to Mr Westenra.

In returning thanks, Mr Westenra said he did so with mingled feelings of pleasure and regret. Kegret at leaving a place which he liked, and where he had made many friends ; pleasure to find that what he had endeavored to do had been taken as for the best. On behalf of himself and his wife he thanked them for their handsome present and kind wishes.

Mr Fenton made a few remarks, in which he said that the present had been selected with the express view of its being something*that would be useful to both i\lr and Mrs Westenra. Personally he expressed great regret at losing Mr Westenra, and he knew that, regret was general, for daring the whole time of his residence among them he had never heard an unkind word said of him, and this was a great deal to say.

After drinking one or two toasts, the party separated.