BANQUET TO TROOPER SMITH.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 20 July 1901, Page 2

BANQUET TO TROOPER SMITH.

Kaye’s Hall, Brunner, last evening, was crowded to excess to do honor to the return of Troopers John Smith and Albert Small, (the latter being unable to arrive to time). The ladies deserve extra praise for the artistic manner in which the tables were decorated. Red, White and Blue in all sorts of designs, even to the delicate jollies, were prominent colors, and were a picture to ir ok at.. The tables wore presided over by the fair sex, who wore Red, White and Blue rosettes. The Mayor occupied the chair, and the guest of the evening had the seat of honor After throe sittings had done full justice to the good things provided,-the Blackball Band played the National Anthem to the toast of the King.

Mr Armstrong proposed “ The Army and Navy ” coupled with the names of 'Captain Tomkies and Lieutenant Hartshorn. The former said both the British and Colonial Soldiers had learnt a good deal through the Boer War—a lesson that would be useful to both. The latter in replying advocated the encouragement of Cadet forces. Band—Rule Britannia.

The Mayor in proposing the health of Trooper Smith the other troopers were unable to be present, and on behalf of the residents welcomed him home, and as the hall was crowded it was proof they were proud of those who had done their duty in fighting for the old flag, and especially those from Brunner. Wo would be pleased to welcome the old members home again. The audience then sang “ For he’s a fellow.” Trooper Smith, who was received with prolonged applause, said he could not express himself how he would wish, but was pleased at the kind way they had treated him and he was glad to be home again. The band, with chorus—" There is no place like Home.” Mr T. Robinson proposed “ The Government of New Zealand,” and spoke at length in maintaining that it was the best Ministry we ever had in New Zealand. One of their best actions was the Conciliation and Arbitration Act as it averted such thing as ruinous strikes.

Mr George Newton replied advocating the Government ruling all industries.

Mr Edward Smith, father of Trooper Smith, thanked them for the enthusiastic manner in which the residents had honored his son and also that his son had fought for his country. Mr E. Masters proposed “ The Mining Industry,” replied to by Mr Alison.

Color-Sergeant M’Ewan proposed “Our boys at the front,” and said that the Brunner Rifles had three members at the front.

Sergeant Thomas replied and said that on their return he would like them to get a similar reception at he felt sure they would as the residents were true Britishers.

The “Press” was proposed by Mr T. Watchman and replied to by Messrs Ward and Kitson.

Dr Mcßrearty proposed the toast of “ The Ladies ” in a most humorous and telling speech and which was much applauded.

The Mayor thanked the Blackball Band, the ladies, and all who had in any way assisted to make the gathering such a success.

The room was then cleared and fully 180 couple tripped the light fantastic to the lively music suppled by Messrs -Rheinhammer and MTvor, Mr M'Cormacfc made a capital M. 0., and the large number of visitors from all parts. of the Coast made merry until the “ wee sma’ hours ” gave the early approach of morn.