CHRISTENING OF THE IMPERIAL COMPANIE'S FLUME.

Dunstan Times, Issue 236, 2 November 1866, Page 2

CHRISTENING OF THE IMPERIAL COMPANIE'S FLUME.

On Saturday last a goodly uumber of persons were assembled on the banks of the Molyneux, at Butcher's Point, to celebrate the christening of the Imperial Mining Company's Fluming, which here crosses the Molyneux. The structure was gaily decorated with bushes and may colored flags, and what with the presence of so many people in holiday attire, the scene was a very animated one. Mr Warden Robinson was the first to initiate the proceedings, and immediately that the water had reached from one side of the river made a most appropriate address the Company Mr Robinson also aIJSB BElie vastness of the undertakings enteredr«H|Py the miners. The Manager (Mr John MilTer) then handed the orthodox bottle of champaigne, which was artistically decked off with ribbons and rosettes to Miss Henderson, the young lady who stood sponsor on the occasion. Miss Henderson, in a distinct tone of voice, named the structure "The Imperial Flume," which was received with loud cheers on the part of the bystanders. Mr Miller, the Manager, then gave a long statement respecting the nature of the work and the many difficulties he had to contend against. Mr Mining Surveyor Goats said—" That as a Civil Engineer, he considered the construction of the work faultless, every point was sufficiently stayed, and every timber had its proper bearing. Two celebarted engineers who had lately visited Otago, had said ' That the Humes and other works in connection with water-races, both in New Zealand and California, though executed by unscientific men, equalled many of the large engineering undertakings of the Old World,' he would not detain them with a long speech, ' and would wish the Imperial Company every success. The Company then adjourn ed to the refreshment tables, which were spre ad on a will-giassed flat, skirting the edge of the rivtr. After the good things of this life had been freely partaken off, Mr. J. C. Thomson,'officer of charge, in a a well-timed speech, proposed "The Health of the Imperial Mining Company." Mr John Jack, the Secretary of the Companv,.: eplied. Mr Wm. Theyers, of Alexandra, and Mr J. Cole Chappel next replied. Mr Warden Robinson, proposed " The Mining Interest." Mr Coleman a miner, replied. Messrs Rivers and Ilillhouse next addressed the' Company. Mr R. Findlay of the firm of Hall and Findlay, of Alexandra, proposed "The Press," coupled with the name of Mr Cope. Mr Cope renEed on behalf of the "Fourth Estate." Mr Mining Surveyor Coates responded to the toast of "The Ladies." Shortly before sundown the company broke up, apparently well satisfied with having spent a most pleasant afternoon. ♦—