CROMWETL.

Dunstan Times, Issue 431, 22 July 1870, Page 2

CROMWETL.

(from OUR own- CORRESPONDENT.) At. last the Icy King seems to have come in Carnfcst, ami severe frosts have been prevalent for the past week, which, with bright clear days, have been welcomed by all as a most agreeable change. Both the Kawarau an 1 Clutha Rivers are falling rapidly, and the dredgers may yet take heart, for there seems every probability that they will yet spoon up a harvest from the bed of the Molyneux, which consummation is devoutly to be wished as it wiil give an impetus to business of all sorts and rouse the energies of all. Last Friday was the anniversary of the School, and it was one of the most successful ever held. Through the united exertions of the ladies of Cromwell, the School-room was most tastefully decorated, and appropriate mottoes hung round the walls. On entering, the view was of a nature that reflected the highest credit on the taste of all concerned in the arranging of the ornaments. At half-past three the children sat down to a most substantial display of the good things of life provided for them, and enjoyed themselves thoroughly. At six o’clock the grown-up people sat down to tea, to the number of eighty, and it unqualified praise and general approval are tests of success, then was the soiree an undoubted one. After tea, at which Mr. Drake presided, the room was cleared of the tables, &c., and the chiloren being ranged on the platform, began the evening’s entertainment by singing a round very well. Indeed, all the pieces that they sung together they rendered in a most effective manner, both as regards the music and the time, which was rendered with a precision that reflected the highest credit on the painstaking efforts of Mr. M ‘Kellar. the schoolmaster, who has spared neither trouble Her time with the children, and whose able manner of teaching was fully exemplified. Recitations from the children some of whom were very small, were also given, and some solo singing from the elder boys, caused the time to pass in a most agreeable manner. Neither break down nor hitch occurred in the whole evening, which was most gratifying to parents, teacher, scholars, and spectators, and will long bo remembered in Cromwell as one of the most pleasant ever spent there. A few songs from some of the gentlemen diversified the amusement. Mr. Drake afterwards made a short and most impressive address Three cheers for the ladles, the master, and all who gave their services was then given, after which the children marched to the bridge, sang a few songs, and dispersed to their homes. A dance in the School-room wound up the evening’s entertainment. General excitement prevails anent the election of Mayor, and both parties aro canvassing for votes. The contest will be both keen and close. Both candidates have addressed the ratepayers and given their views on Municipal matters, and the sub* jeet rests on the voice of the public.