FAREWELL TO DR MORLEY.

Gisborne Times, Volume VII, Issue 359, 8 March 1902, Page 3

FAREWELL TO DR MORLEY.

SPEECH BY THE PREMIER.

By Telegraph —Press Association. Dunedin, last night.

In connection with the Wesleyan Conference a most successful conversazione was held in the Agricultural Hall, There was a largo attendance, over 1200 being present. President Murray presided. The occasion was taken to say farewell to Dr Morley. On the platform were Mr Arnold, G. J. Smith, M.H.R., the Mayor of Dunedin, and prominent members of the Conference.

During the evening the Right Hon. the Premier arrived, and expressed tho loss sustained by the colony in the removal of Dr Morley. He wished him success in his work in Victoria, and assured him of a cordial welcome back when such occasion arrived.

President Murray made a presentation of a purse containing 100 sovs, on behalf of the Church in New Zealand.

In reply, Dr Morley acknowledged the kind expressions. He referred to the rela-

tions of the Methodist Church and the Government of the colony. He had had business in church affairs with three New Zealand Premiers —Messrs Atkinson, Ballance, and Seddon—and all had shown the utmost courtesy. He thanked the donors fortheir munificent gift, and briefly reviewed the course of the ministry in New Zealand.

A select musical programme was rendered by the ministers attending the Conference. Rev. Mitchell (Coromandel) sang several solos, and the whole function was marked by great enthusiasm, and worthy of the expression used by the Premier, Mr Seddon, that it wxs “ a most unique occasion.” The proceedings closed at a late hour.