THE AMATEUR PERFORMANCE FOR THE HOSPITAL.

Grey River Argus, Volume IX, Issue 671, 7 May 1870, Page 2

THE AMATEUR PERFORMANCE FOR THE HOSPITAL.

[to the editor.] Sir. — A short time since an Amateur Performance was given in this town for the benefit of the Hospital, and many people, who failed to recognise the histrionic powers of some of the performers, were induced to go, as they looked to the "object" for which the entertainment was given. Every praise is due to those gentlemen who so kindly gave their time and services — and such was evinced as the general opinion by the crowded and goodtempered audience. I believe the net proceeds amounted to L4B, and it is only fair to enquire how much of this sum has been handed to the Hospital Committee ? I have made that enquiry, and to my surprise, have been informed that the j committee have not yet been troubled to give a receipt, as no money has been paid j them ; upon further search I learn that the Club have no funds in hand. How was this money spent — and where did it go to, and why was not a portion of it handed over for the ostensible object for which the entertainment was given ? Is it true that the "gentlemen" paid to one of their number Lls for his valuable services, in addition to a sum of LlO previously bestowed as an honorarium ? If such be the fact, I cannot recognise the right of the committee thus to deal with public money, for it cannot be looked upon other than as a breach of faith. I, amongst others, patronised. the performance solely with the view of contributing towards the support and maintenance of one of our most noble institutions. People will talk, and it is currently rumored that the loin's share of takings went to the printer. It is a matter of regret that the committee should h;ie been so remiss, and as one of the audience, I would respectfully solicit them to give some explanation of this matter, and shall patiently wait their pleasure, when I promise to say something more upon this subject, as the interest of the sick and suffering should be vigilantly watched, lam, &., One op the Audience.