THE FRIENDLY SOCIETIES’ FETE.

Evening Star, Issue 3673, 30 November 1874, Page 2

THE FRIENDLY SOCIETIES’ FETE.

To the Editor. Sir, —Then it astonished “ Inquirer” that the proceeds of a f6fce got up “ for the benefit of three different orders of the Friendly Societies ” was not handed over as a “ handsome donation to some charitable institution.” Upon the same line of reasoning how astonished “ Inquirer ” must have been that Madame Goddard did not hand over the proceeds of her concerts to the Benevolent Institute ; for the success of these concerts also “was undoubtedly owing to the patronage of the public.” Stuff! “ Inquirer ” was astonished at nothing of- the sort; the only thing that astonished him was that merit received some slight recognit on of its services. I think tho co-trustees of MrGeddes are above such a petty feeling as is sought to be excited by the letter of “ Inquirer.” I have known Mr Geddes for twenty years and can say, without fear of contradiction,’ that he may be safely classed amongst the charitable; and anything he takes in hand is followed up with that perseverance which is usually crowned with success ; and, leaving out “Inquirer,” I am pleased to see that there are still sufficient left to recognise true merit. Mr Geddes may have his faults, but amongst those faults will not be found either sordid parsimony or envy.—l am, 4c., _ Fideli certa merges. Dunedin, November 28.