SOCIAL AT TE ARAROA.

Gisborne Times, Volume IX, Issue 902, 28 May 1903, Page 3

SOCIAL AT TE ARAROA.

SEND-OFF TO AIR AND AIRS DELAUTOUK.

A large number of people assembled In Mr McLachlan’s hall, To Araroa, on Monday evening last, in i rder to take the opportunity of bidding Mr and Airs A. DeLautour and family, who are leaving that district to reside near Gisborne, farewell. 'Flic building was most artistically decorated. ’ A white dado ran all round the interior, and above that green manuka was arranged in such a manner as to give the room the appearance of a rustic bower. Beautiful oil-paintings further added to the general effect. Upwards of

I‘! persons were present, and dancing was indulged in with great spirit. Mrs Manning and Messrs McLachlan, Robert.son, Leslie, and others contributed songs at intervals during the evening. The toast of the evening was proposed by. Air Id. 11. Henderson, who, jn the course of an appropriate speech, expressed the sincere regret fell; by the residents of lhe district at the approaching departure of Air and Airs DeLautour. .They, had assembled that evening to hid them farewell and to wish tnein godspeed. Though they were all sorry to lose I hem, he realised that they were going nearer civilisation, relations, and friends. lie eulogised the energy and zeal Air DeLautour nail displayed in working for the public good, of which the telephone Tine was a standing testimony. lie paid a very high tribute to Mrs DeLautour, and referred to the many reasons the settlers had for feeling sorry that she was leaving them. Air and Airs DeLautour, by their generous hospitality and unfailing courtesy, had done much to promote •he good feeling which at present existed. Iu conclusion, he said that Mr and Airs DeLautour and family look with them the sincere regard and esteem of everyone in Te Araroa and he asked their acceptance of small souvenirs of their residence in -.lie district,. Mr Henderson then presented ho lit Air and Mrs DeLautour with handsome mementoes of considerable value. Air and Airs DcLautour’s health was drunk With great enthusiasm. Mr DeLautour then responded, thanking those present lor the kind words that had been spoken. lie would not, lie said he completely severing iiis connection with them, as he would lie visiting them from time to time. Airs DeLautour and himself would long remember the kindness of Hie settlers ol Tc Araroa.