VALEDICTORY.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2156, 3 April 1908, Page 2

VALEDICTORY.

MR. DAVID LINCOLN. A POPULAR DRIVER. A largo number of friends and well-wishers of Mr. David Lincoln mot last night in tho Farmers’ Union Club rooms for the purpose of making him a presentation and saying “farewell” prior to his leaving the district for Auckland. Mr. Lincoln has been in tho service of Messrs J. R. Redstone and Sons lor a number of years, and lias been in charge, of the Gladstone road—AVest End ’bus service for nearly four years, during which time he has only missed two Saturday nights from duty. One of the chief reasons for Mr. Lincoln’s approaching departure is tho health of Mrs. Lincoln, which for somo time lias not been of the best. Mr Robert Johnston was voted to the chair, and in a short speech said that lie felt honored by being asked to preside over the gathering. He bad known Mr. Lincoln for a number of years, and could not say enough in his praise. Tho chairman referred to the kindly ways and unfailing courtesy of the guest of the evening, in his official position, and also to liis solicitude for the safety and comfort of the ladies and children who from time to time had been passengers on his vehicle. He concluded by proposing the toast of “The Guest of the Evening,” which was enthusiastically received, and drunk with musical honors.

Mr. AA 7 . J. p. Gaudin spoke in a similar strain, highly eulogising tho good -work done by Mr. Lincoln, who, by bis undoubted ability and tact, had endeared himself to tho hearts of all with whom he came in contact. Messrs Petersen and Roderick, on behalf .of Messrs Nelson Bros.’-, freezing works, also added their tribute to tho esteem in which Mr. Lincoln was held.

Several songs having been sung, : Mr R. Johnston made the presentation, consisting of a handsome silver tea and coffee service and silver salver, on behalf of the residents of upper Gladstone road, Aberdeen road, and Tarulieru freezing works. Mr. Lincoln, on. rising to respond, was greeted with round after round of cheering, and some moments elapsed before he could make himself heard. Ho said in a few simple words that lie avas completely taken by surprise at the presentation, and could only thank them, duo and all, from the bottom of his heart, for their great kindness and generosity. Other toasts honored during the evening were “The Chairman” and “The Freezing Industry,” which were responded to by Mr. R. Johnston and Mr. Jameson.

The pleasant gathering concluded about 0.15 jj. in. by the singing of “Auld Lang Syne.” Apologies for non-attendance were received _ from Messrs G. K. Pasley, H. J. Finn, M. Craig, and a number of others.

Mr. Lincoln leaves for Auckland to-morrow morning.