FAREWELL TO MR DE BERRY.

Hokitika Guardian, 26 July 1918, Page 4

FAREWELL TO MR DE BERRY.

THE SCI

TOOL'S SEND-OFF

There was a-large gathering at Hokitika District High School yesterday afternoon when the scholars bid farewell to Mr. L.-F. do Berry, headmaster of the school for the past- seven years, who has secured an appointment to the school at Marton.

There were several adults present, including members of the School Committee. Mr. H. Williams opened the proceedings by explaining tho object of the gathering. At his request Master H. Rutland on behalf of the secondary department read an address to Mr de Berry, and Miss May ITarrop asked acceptance of a' purse of sovereigns. Master King then read an address irom the scholars of the primary classes and a presentation of a travelling bag was made on their behalf. Mr. Aitlcen (Chairman of the School Committee) followed expressing the regret that was felt at the aproaolung departure of Mr de Berry, who had at all times done his utmost, with such great success, to advance the best interests of the school. Mr 'Ait-ken read an address from the Committee conveying their appreciation ol the services oi their headmaster during his term of office. Mr. S. Preston followed in a humorous speech that was heartily enjoyed by the scholars. Mr. de Berry in returning thanks expressed his doe]) regret at- having to part with the scholars. He had been connected with the school for nearly seven years and ho felt- that some of the success achieved was due to his work. He de-ply regretted parting with the scholars and thanked them sincerely for their addresses and varied presents. He also thanked the members of the School Committee for their appreciation and expressed his gratification at the help ho had always received from them.

At the call of Mr. Hickson three hearty cheers were given for Mr d<* Berry, followed by musical honours, and the assemblage then sang tho National Anthem and were dispersed for the rest of the afternoon. The visitors were then regaled with afternoon tea at tho Technical school. The previous afternoon the Teaching Staff met Mr de Berry, when Mr Williams on behalf of the teachers expressed the regret at the severance of pleasant relations that- had existed for the past seven years, and wished him every success in their future home. As a token of their regard, he asked the acceptance of a travelling rug. Mr de Berry expressed his appreciation of the kind remarks of Mr Williams and liis thanks for the gift. It had been a pleasure to know he bad always the support of the staff, and most of the success of tlie- school in the past seven years was due to their untiring work. He thanked them sincerely for the good wishes voiced on behalf of liis wife and family.