THE PICNICS.

Hawke's Bay Times, Volume 16, Issue 848, 22 October 1870, Page 2

THE PICNICS.

TO TUB EDITOR OF THE HAAVKE'S BA.r TIMES. Sir,—l was last evening to perceive an announcement in your columns to the effect that the Napier Riile Volunteers-, intend holding a picnic on the same day as the Artillery had fixed for theirs. Of course it is needless for me to say liow absurd it is that there ahouM be such a feeling of opposition exhibited by die old band towards the new, for I hat announcement bears opposition on the face of if, seeing that it did not appear until the Artillery had advertised their intention. With a small population like ours, comparatively speaking, the most disinterested observer must perceive that two entertainments on. one day cannot possibly be profitable; nay, must :d----niost ensure loss to both caterers for the public amusement. Consequently, what can be said other than that there is ill-feeling, as well as discourtesy, shown towards the beginners. I may say that it is usual for n ilitary bands to practice the reverse of this. I have been positively assured by members of the Artillery Band that had their friends of the Rifles expressed their intention of holding a picnic on the l*t November (prior r.o the advertisement) they (the Artillery) would have put theirs off, and felt bound to assist in any way that might have been in '.heir power. In conclusion, let me say that I think there should be fair, honest rivalry ; but this appears a step in the wrong dilection. Every right-thinking man would be sorry to see an attempt to provide an elevating public amusement crushed by a few malcontents. — Yours, &c, Oct. 22, 1870. Waif.