FAREWELL TO MR BARKLEY.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 7 June 1901, Page 3

FAREWELL TO MR BARKLEY.

Between forty and fifty citizens of Reef ton met at a banquet yesterday evening at Dawson’s Hotel, Reefton, to bid farewell to Mr W. B. Barkley, (formerly of Greymouth) who with his family are leaving for Opunake, North Island. The banquet was handsomely served in Host Dawson’s usual excellent style, and was done very ample justice to by the guests. Mr C. Cohen, who filled the chair, gave the usual loyal toast to the King and Royal Family, which was drunk with enthusiasm. Mr Phillips, accompanied by Mr Ashby, sang “ The Old Brigade,” which was highly applauded. The Chairman then proposed the health of their guest, and in so doing stated how valuable a citizen Mr Barkley had proved himself during his long residence in Eeefton, and how active and valuable a part he had taken in all public movements ca'oulated to advance the interests and prosperity of the district. Ho expressed how general was the feeling of regret at the departure of Mr and Mrs Barkley, but all shared in the hope that their future would be one of happiness and prosperity in their new sphere of action. After an excellent song by Mr Cooper, Mr Barkley responded, thanking his fellow-citizens for the warm manner in which they had toasted of himself and Mr Barkley. Other toasts and songs closed a most enjoyal evening.