A COMPLIMENTARY DINNER.

Gisborne Times, Volume VII, Issue 352, 28 February 1902, Page 2

A COMPLIMENTARY DINNER.

At the City Buffet last evening a complimentary dinner was tendered to Mr F. S. Desßarres, tho popular proprietor of tLb Masonic Hotel stables, on the occasion of his disposing of the business to Mr Sinclair, late of Tolago Bay. About forty gentlemen were present, the chair being occupied by Mr A. L. Bollcrby. Amongst others present were Messrs Townley, Clayton (Tiniroto), Kenderdinc, Sinclair, Adair, Johnstone (2), Symes, Wakelin, Ormond, McConnell, Harris, Hedley, H. Aston, and W. Challis. Full justice having been done to the excellent dinner provided by Host Allen, the evening was devoted to harmony, music, aud a number of toasts serving to pass tho time pleasantly. The Chairman (Mr Bellerby) proposed the health of the *• King.” which was suitably acknowledged by Mr Wakelin. The second toast of the evening, j that of “ Tho Army and Navy,” was pro posed by Mr Lissant Clayton, and re spondid to Mr Graham Johnstone. Mr Wakelin gave a splendid rendering of 'ln “ Powder Monkey.” The toast, '• Tho Contingenters,” was proposed by Mr Hedley, who made a stirring speech. and responded to by Mr Harris, in appropriate terms. Mr Kcnderdine proposed the toast of “ Hunting,” which was responded to by the guest of the evening. In replying, Mr Desßarres expressed the hope that this favorite pastime would long continue

popular in this district. It was, he said, the only sport indulged in that brought the country people together, and on that

account should be encouraged and cultivated, “ The Flowing Bowl ” was sung ing good style by Mr Sinclair. Mr 0. Adair proposed the toast of “Racing,” which was suitably responded to by Mr Symes. A pleasing ceremony then took place, Mr H. Aston, on behalf of Mr DesBarres’ employees and other friends, proposing that gentleman’s health and presenting him with a very handsome set of silver-mounted pipes and silver match-box, contained in a pretty Morocco case. Mr Aston referred to the high esteem and respect in which Mr Desßarres was held throughout the district, and expressed the hope that he would remain in PovertyBay. Mr Desßarres feelingly responded, thanking the donors for their handsome gift. Songs having been contributed by Messrs Adair, O’Riley (2), Mr Graham Johnstone proposed the toast of 11 The Ladies,” which was responded to by Mr Sinclair, The toast of 11 The Host and Hostess” was proposed by Mr J. H. Ormond, and that- of “ The Press ” by Mr Crabb. Mr O’Reilly sang “ The Same Old Tale,” and Mr Challis “ Australian Heroes.” A number of other songs were given, and a pleasant evening was brought to a close at midnight by the singing of Auld Lang Syne ” and 11 God Save the King,” three cheers being given for Hr Desßarres before the gathering dispersed.