CELEBRATING THE NEW ERA

Hokitika Guardian, 15 December 1923, Page 2

CELEBRATING THE NEW ERA

Hokitika- is *-u let*.* to-duy foi the opening of the British and I nC-rcnloiiin] Exhibition. The occasion marks not i illy the opening of the Hast and West Coast railway, but is intended also to celebrate the diamond jubilee oi the Westland goldfield. In other columns of this issue to-day appear interesting, particulars of the circumstances leading up to tin' event which is being marked so popularly to-day. Ihe occasion for the rejoicing is the realisation that the direct railway communication lias opened a new era. tor Westland and that the event marks a very memorable time tor the town. ,A very fine Exhibition has been organised to specially mark the dual occasion. 1 lit* Exhibition i.s fixed to extend over seven weeks, and is on lines which are a surprise to most visitors. The buildings are very commodious, and at a private view yestoidav wete found to he crowded with stalls and exhibits. Tbe Exhibition is finite- the most important event which lias transpired in Hokitika. It is the largest civic undertaking, and it is not too much to say that it is well done, and the whole venture has been well organised. The Coast is receiving a splendid advertisement. The organisers have received great encouragement on all sides. Emm Christchurch came much preliminary aid in the matter of advice and di-re-lion. The promoters all agree that they were extremely fortunate in having the friendly help ol Mr 1. W. Woodioffe. as architect. The lay out ot tbe Elxliibilimt is excellent. and ] i rmitted tbe very fine slmw now displayed. Mr Woodlofi’e set the scope of tb* Exhibition as it wen*, and the management had just to build up to it. His confidence and inspiration as to tin' possibilities have proved well founded, ami led the way in any ease to the verv pleasing success patrons at * seeing for themselves to-day. The Executive Council included-.

.Mc-'st-s W. ■). Butler, i’resident: W Jeffries, Chairman; A. Aitken. C. Davidson. I!- F. I’erham. C. A. Berry. \V. Wilson. I!. Wilson. C. S. Dalgleish. R. Renton, Dr. Tcichelmuun. and Hon. |l. ].. Michel. Mr I). J. Evans is iurlloimrurv Secretary to the Exhibition. From flic moment oi entering the Exhibition, the visitor is impressed. The ferneiy is iI self something to linger over ami enjoy in pleasant detail. Next is the Westland Court of Agritore. This might almost appear a misnomer. seeing that West land has been so much identified "ith mining and saw milling; but there is a transition ] iocess in operation, o, rather it should be* said. Westland C milling to its iud'.stiic.s, and i-- expanding ilseli by ii.-mg its dormant- resoulee-> in the land. Ibe Exhibition. therefore is worth while in demonttatTfig Dial the land lias a distinctive future as a pastoral country, am] that in dairying

alone great advances are going to he made. The value of Westland lain I tor,st. therefore go up substantially from in a on. for a- visitors spy out the laud and set* ibe op;i itunities nil',-ring, values must burden. That is inevit.-d I ami gild- the- future of Westland veiv biigbtly. The Agricultural Couit is tiu-rolore an exposition of great value.

Otlee in I lie main annexe wbii-li m--oupies Camp Street for nearly its complete length, tlu* visitor is impressed with the full pretentions of the Exhibition. It is a wonderful display, and to-night when lit- up, and thronged as tTie buildings w ill la*, it should be a very brilliant spectacle indeed. It is the kind of display that people will v.ant to see again ami again, and as there is so much variety on all sides, visitors will not tire readily, from tie; main avenues there hrnm-h other

avenues leading into buildings and other annexes all replete with varied exhibits. The Drill Hall lias been alien d out of recognition, by an extension to tbe tear, and by erecting a side annexe when* some special exhibits an* located, including a very fine showing of Westland timber.

To the rear of the Town Hall is a largo annexe which wears a very bright

appearance. Here there are many notable exhibits, including that of the Hokitika (las Coy., which lias certainly risen to the occasion. The Nelson exhibits are in this Court, as also a pood showing of motor ears, and accessories. Variety is addl'd by furniture displays, fancy nolle, including a lailic- special ,stall, it ltd returned soldiers exhibits. V.Ticre the main courts are linked al i Ik. 1 rear of tin- Hank of Now Zealand preniires, ihere is the llungiora district display quite unique in itself, and a brilliant show by Aul.sehrooks of Christchurch. 'l'lit' exhibitor- have been at paints to make tasteful displays. The arrangement of many of the stalls is quite captivating. All arc lit brilliantly as will be evidenced to-night. Fpstairs in the Town Jlall is a. remarkinteresting di* flay of pictures etc. vliich vi-itois on no account should miss. In that location aho is a very complete display by the AgrieultHin' l)epa: tmeiit of Now Zealand. "huh should not l ; c pnssetl by. a- it is fit!] of detail of special interest to those on the land. Nearby is the Forest Service exhibit, also well worth seeing. so that the upstairs of the Town Hall building becomes a point for very genera! interest.

The impressions of visitors generally are all extremely favorable. Surprise and delight, are being expressed on all -ides at the extent and the excellence ot th brave display made. The arrangements seem to he working out with remarkable smoothness. For the closing horns yesterday there, was certainly plenty of hustle, hut no confusion, and this morning everything was being evolved into seemly order sonic time bet ore nor,ll. "hen aAI ini.iterial inspection was made. Mrs .holes of Cnristchuicli ami her staff have been in charge of the luncheon and refreshment department for the past few days. The Horticultural Hal! is being used and has been transfoi tiled into a very pleasant and attractive retreat. The kitchen is equipp'd! ill complete detail, and Mrs Jones is bent on good service. Everything should be in tu.-t class running order this afternoon, amt patrons who are sure to he numerous, will he well ser v -

Thc genera! arrangements seem to point to the undertaking groat as it is being an outstanding success. The Executive appear to have done their work well ami it rests "ith the public by giving their patronage to the fullest extent, recognising that in the Exhibition there is a unique opportunity to do themselves much honor and credit, and to add to the renown of Westland, so that for all time this great Coast Exhibition of 19’23-l!4 will lie a pleasant memory, and a milestone in the history of the district, marking the beginning of a new epoch which should contain many blight pages of material progress and pros;*>rity for {he whole of the Const,

.. ......i... - -<bs> o " - 11 —— Opening of the Exhibition A Memorable Event Hokitika En Fete

the: entrance. The entrance to the Exhibition is byway of Tuiiered Street, ami the front of the building presents an imposing and ornate appearance, three large doorways give room for entrance, and tlu* face of the building covers the street front, which depicts a replica of Ml. Cook and its attendant snow-clad mountains, with a green hush foreground. Below appears the words Hast—West with a train passing through the mountains. Arches on both sides of the entrance add attractive features, the whole front making a pleasant impression on the attention of visitors. ’1 lie Iront will he lit up at night with several large spot electric lamps which will still lurther enhance the general attractive appearmice. The scenic work of Mr Mcn-m who has been responsible for the general appearance, has been very successful.

Inside the main entrance is a Westland fernery. This has a centre stand laden with tin* mosses and ferns ol the district and has a fountain playing, while the sides of the section an one mass of ferns and greenery ol every description tastefully arranged, and having a very cooling and welcome elfect after entering from the glare ot the street. Colored electric lights ml, give a very fine elfect at night. SOME EXIT! lUTOILS. The Bristol Piano Company makes an imposing display with a line stand ot well-known British made musical instruments. These comprise pianos by such well-known London makers as Biimlsniead and Co., Collat'd and Collard, Barnard and W. Collinsou. The hitter makers’ instruments are in special demand for school use. A feature is a Bell Piano and Organ Coy., of Canada, player piano. A fine display of gramophones is also being made, including the Metronola electrically-dri-ven gramophone (period model*, and also table and portable machines, together with a full range of records ot every- description. The firm are also agents for liawkes and Sons makers of the eclebroted Excelsior Sonorous brass band and orchestral instruments. Mr James King is the local agent, while on the stand the firm's representatives are always ready to give lull particulars of their particularly line stock. Messrs Aulsebrook and Co. ol Christchui eh, make a striking display at. the entrance to Canterbury Avenue, which is one of the special features that will particularly appeal to the sweet tooth brigade—a strong force in every community. The firm are famous for their biscuits and confectionery, ami the very line display being made will serve to draw added attention to the high quality of their manufactures. The substantial stand is arranged very tastefully and has a number of novel features. On one side stands an ebony elephant advertising chocolates, while on the other side a light-liom-e with a flashing sign will help to draw attention, while a mechanical singing canarv in a gilded cage which obliges with its warble tor the dropping of a penny in the slot, is: a distinct novelty. Among the special array of toothsome delicacies that are so lavishly displayed, the firm are making special leatures of a number of chocolate novelties, kisses and marsh-mallows. Fancy boxes of chocolates are there in endless

number, and the yellow rose is one specially recommended. C’akes, biscuits and confectionery of every description is very tastefully displayed and with the assistance of some 3000 candle power o f electric light at night, makes a worthy display hv a reputable firm of manufacturers. Messrs Maddren Bros, rone and twine manufacturers oi Christchurch, have a well displayed space in Canterbury Avenue. Here is a brave showing of the work of the rope-maker in all its branches, these everyday lint's being well shown, comprising Manilla rope, hinder twine, and other twine nl various thicknesses and utility. In Huller Avenue the Phoenix Coy.. Ltd., of Dunedin, makes a very striking display that attracts the visitor aL once by its daintiness and the manner ill which the goods are arranged. Confectionery and biscuits in splendid array and assortment tlraw well deserved approval. From the immense bon-bon on the trout oi the show to the smallest toothsome dainty, the contents are attractive, and visitors will glance at the contents with approval and commendation. Everything on the stand is made in New Zealand, a placard states. Every credit is due to the firm for the quality and high standard attained. The Sanitarium Health Food Coy. ot Christchurch are situated in the main avenue and their section commands attention. The linn specialises in high ela s-> cor.i.d and nut Toads, nil fermented I wines, and their manufactures include Grano-e biscuits and fakes, Granola, health drinks, gluten preparations, mu foods and bi-mils and various similar preparations. I.eaHets can he obtained mi application, setting forth particulars of the various articles on sale. Afes-rs Irvine and Stevenson Ltd., manufacturers of St. George brand good- Dunedin, make a brave show at the cud of Hie main avenue. The display includes a fine selection of tinned and preserved goods— jams, f ruits, fish, confectionery, biscuits, their stand being well displayed and making an attractive showing of their manufactures. In the NeDon Avenue Messrs Gridin ami Son of NcUon have a stand of their manufactures of biscuits, confectionery etc., well known for many years oil the West Coast. Messrs .John ('handlers and Son of Christchurch, have a substantial engineering supplies exhibit ot the rear ot the Town Hall that will prove of general interest. .Messrs Scott and Coy. of Cliristneering supplies exhibit at the rear of home, a good cooking stove, well displayed in various sizes and shapes.

The next exhibit is that of Westland and the districts’ resources are brought well forward. The brands of the various butter and cheese factories form a striking feature on one side, while on the other wool in the fleece makes an imposing arch. Sheaves of oats, wheat- and flax are of a high quality, while there is an interesting display of grasses, lime in nil grades, and a number of other articles of a generally attractive nature including a stand of lionev in bottle and eolith that cannot he beaten for quality. Among the most important features of the Exhibition in the sight-testing service which Barry and Sargent Ltd. the Wellington eyesight specialists propose to introduce to the West Coast. Messrs Barry and Sargent have a high standing in Auckland, Wellington and Palmerston North, where rhfiv an? established, and all

clients tire assured cf tiro earn.} scientist, ntd cs.'-vci'jrtiou* treatment which Kavo won them notable success throughout the Dominion. They wish specially to introduce their Kontorik (curved) and “Kryptok” (doublesighted) lenses, which they make in their own workshops. Booklets on these can be had at their stand in Crfeymoutli Avenue. Appointments can be made from noon to-day (Saturdav).

J. Mandl and Co., brewers. Hokiika have a striking exhibit of their well-known brands of beer and stout, in barrels ami (wattled. Theiqsttmil is near the main entrance, iust before

entering into tlu* main highways. The Gieymoulh District stand is at t -- tlu* entrance to Creymomh Avenue, ’( and is an extensive one. Leading features are models of the town and hnrlxmr of Greyniouth, of the steamer Arahura. a ship in full sail, ami many interesting photos and paintings of the districts. These special exhibits somewhat overshadow the actual pro duets of the (listnet. though the stand is interesting, and is bound to attract a lot- of attention. The Bailor District Court is well placed am! makes an interesting display. Coal and other minerals naturally form tin important portion, while timbers in various stages are displayed. Many interesting paintings and pliotgoraphs adorn the court, showing beauty spots, and the places where the black diamonds conic Iront. One section of working models ami other work bv the Westport Teehttial School is ari interesting one also. I here are a number of stands of minerals, named. that are of interest, including limestone and gold-bearing gravels from several centres. This is a very attractive and interesting display of the districts resources. Messrs J. T. Nortons Ltd., of Lyttelton, manufacturers, make an attractive representation of the various articles from their luauutaetoi \ specialities including “Dorase” broad improver. “Neel!” bread itnprotet, and Norton’s egg preserver, so iavourab.v known by all egg producers. These and other lines are displayed to ad-

vantage. In the main avenue the “Lyttelton Times” of Christchurch, lias an attractive stand, setting forth the pi lilting art. The Christchurch “Press” t oy. have also an attractive stand setting out the high quality of printing they carry out. lteofton District display was hardly completed last night, but, it promises to set forth the districts’ resources in a capable and attractive manner. In the annexe alongside the Drill Hull there is a fine display of timber, one tine board Aft. din. in width ing a splendid slab of red pine. This, t was cut at tlu* Lake Brunner Sawmill, and will be hard to beat. Turner's Station Mart have a fruit and confectionery stall, while a soft drink's stall is being carried on byMrs Hunter. ILuigiora district Bay has a nice display of the districts resources. These comprise seeds, oats. wheat, Hour rope, twine, wool and grass, oat and wheat sheaves, dip powder, and many other items that a progressing agricultural district produces. Messrs A. .1. White, Ltd., house furnishers of Christchurch, make an attractive display <>E furniture. Returned Soldiers have several stalls showing their handiwork, and the goeiK displayed are for sale. These stalls should have, in addition to the general attractiveness, the special milled sympathy of purchasers. Messrs Bunting and Co. of Christchurch make an attractive display of brushes, brusliware and brooms oF general utility, excellently laid out. Messrs Duncan McLean Ltd., of Creymoutb make a ..display of agricultural and other implements for which they are agents. These are hardly completed yet, but will prove very interesting, especially- to the farming community. Kin-good Son A- Eweii. Dunedin, have a display of boots and shoes in a neat glass ease, of their standard brands. Messrs Reid and Cray Ltd. of Dunedin show agricultural implements. The Wilson Malt Extract Coy., ot Dunedin show their malt extract manufactures. Messrs Boss and Clendenning Ltd. make a substantial display of Roslyn woollen goods. Messrs McLeod Bros. Ltd. of Dunedin. soap- manufacturers' display their various makes of soap and allied articles. Messrs Renton and Co. show agricultural implements of various makes, including a fine assortment of Shnokloek and Co.'s Orion ranges and stores. In the- annexe to the Drill Shed the Oreynmiilh Technical School makes a showing of the work ot the scholars, including a miniature house, articles of furniture, tools etc.

The Dominion Compressed A east Coy. of Christchurch exhibits its make of vinegar and other products. Ijover Bros. N.Z. T.td.. Wellington, have a stand showing their manufactures, including monkey brand and other soaps. Turnbull and Jones of Auckland, have a stand showing electrical appliances of the latest descriptions. The Kaiapoi Woollen Coy. shows a fine assortment of its manufactures , comprising woollens in all stages. Suckling Bros. Ltd., boot manufacturers of Christchurch have a showy glass stand with hoots and shoes ot every description. In the Town Hall, upstairs, the Department of Agriculture has arranged its line exhibit. Here is shown a very striking gathering ol the products of tin' Dominion, this' feature being a. notable one. On the stairway there is a display of Maori handiwork, and carving, together with a large number of piettires. In tlm band room the art gallery is sit lulled and thi- section will prove a great attraction, there being, quite a number of interesting features. In another part the Alines Department makes an interesting display of minerals, which are tastefully shown and named. The South 1.-h mi Motors. Christchurch show a number ol motor eats. The Department of Internal Affairs makes a special ill-play that is of interest. All into! —sled in commerce and industry will be able to receive advice that will prove of distinct advantage. Messrs Kempthorne Prosser and Co. have a couple of interesting stands setting forth their many wares to distinct advantage. Osmond and Son, veterinary chemists have also a m>nt stand r,t their manufactures. The N.Z. Befrigerating Coy. Ltd. of Christchurch have their stand in the Drill Hull, and have laid out their many manufactures in att. active form. The New Zealand Boot- AJamifaeturer.x’ Association have an attractive display of hoots and shoes. The Hokitika Gas Coy. are making preparations for a great showing the latest uses of gas. and the mun.v home comforts that users of gas can enjoy. There will he special daily 'tcmnnstrations given during .Tunu-ir. There are quite a number of outer stalls which are well worthy of >»' speetion. there being a fine s ” bv quite a number of exh,lnters o fancy goods of very clescnpt.cn f°* Messrs Pa tenon find Tdoyd hflve *i

Lynn a H.ioyia arid fancy stall, display ol fancy goods, and Mr F

Afr D. Dowell Inis the ice cream rights for the Exhibition. .Mr E. ('. Toohey Ims a fine display of bicycles and trade accessories: A mUX;IMS FOR ABSENCE. Among the apologies received for ak'-ence to-day. were tne following: - From Captain Arthur It. \V. Curtis, Private .S<'ci , elary to Ifis Excellency, the Governor: ‘'ln reply to your kind invitation to Ill's Excellency to attend tlic Opening Ceremony on December loth., I am directed to express lli.s Excellency's i egret that engagements in Hawke’s May at that time prevent • hi- being able to accept. - ’ Freni Him. (■. .1 as, Anderson, Wellington: "1 appreciate and thunk you ior the cordial invitation extended to me to attend the opening ceremony tomorrow o| the Miil i'.li and liitereolonia. 1 Exhibition, Hokitika, luit exceedingly regiet that owing to pressure of public business 1 am unable to avail niyseli of same. Kindly apologise for my unavoidable abieiue. 1 trust that the Kxhihition will he successful in every way, and mu looking lonian! to visiting

saim in due course.'' Front Hon. Hi. hard ]•', Bollard, Gixlionie:—“T very much iegret my inability to attend the opening of the Exhibition at Hokitika on the loth, in-l. 1 k'ui loked forward to the occasion, but now find that the engagements on the East Coast to which I am eomiuil ted.

aili piovont my having the pleasure of being present. The event icrtiiinly marks a further step forward in proxies- for the West (oast and the promoters ol the Exhibition are deserving.

of eoiigiatiilntions on their enterprise I hope they will receive the sileecs which it is aniteipated will he uehiev <•<). With my waiimst, good wishes.' I loin lion. A. F. Ilawke. .M.1..C.. In vereargili : “Many thanks for you:

kind invitation to he present at ltit-

opening of your Exhibition on the lot In inst, I am -oi rv lie cannot gig up for the opening, hut .Mrs Hawke and sell hope to see it s.mie time during the Hitl l* i pari iif .Inunary month. T hope yn i will have a good day for the opening and I wish Llm Exhibit ion all tlm good luck possible. I remain." From Hon. Clots. E. Ktatnaiii. Sp'eaker Dunedin : ‘1 regret very iiiiieil indeed that engiigemeuts here prevent my acet-j. tarns- I .l’ your kiln! i uvitat t<;“ to the Opening Ceremony on the loti: inst. f hope, however, to he able to li.-it your Exhibition later on. I‘lease accept 11 iv eoiigra l illations upon the Diamond Jubilee of your province and my best wishes for the success of yo'.r Exhibition, and for the future' pros--1 erity of Westland.'’ -•From 11. W. I'm. Esq., M.H.. Chri.slTnurcli : “I regret exceedingly 1 1.. . owing to the illness of a member of my family. I chmiidP he u i Ll l you all at Hokitika on the loth. I shall look fnrwaid to visiting the Exhibition at a later date*, and trust the function will be a gi eat success. Kin Ora." From .1 lon. C. .). I’arr, Wellington: -■ .‘'Thunks the .British and Intercolonial Exhibition Council for their imitation to attend the Opening Ceremony on the loth. December luit icgrets it will he impossible for him to attend, owing to absence from the Dominion.” From Finn. M. Foiiinro, Dept. of Public Health. Wellington: -“I have to thank you for your kind invitation to me to attend tlm opening of Die liritiLsh and rnteiColniiial ‘Exhibition at Hokitika on the lot It. inst., hut logrot that owing to engagements in the Auckland district during next week it will-not he possible for me to lie present mi that occasion. I trust that ill; opening ceremony will he well attended. and that l lie Exhibition w ill meet-with every .success.” From It. C. Bishop, Esq., Christchurch"l have to thunk you for vour kind invitation for the opening ceremony t on the loth, in.-t. I regret lam unable- to lie with you on that day as we have uu important function on tlm same day. We arc celebrating tile fill'd, anniversary of the arrival ol the hi si Pilgrims and as l am one ol them have taken a somewhat prominent part in connection with our I'ilgirnis’ Association. As I it-ni im old West- Coaster in the sixties and early seventies, ii is only natural that .1 would much have Hired to have been with you. However, qs that cannot Ire, let my best ol good wishes go out to you for .success and a good time.”

From His Worship the Mayor, It. A Wright, Esq.. M .P.. Wellington :—‘-Re

gifts that he will he unable to accept tlm kind invitation of tile Couneil of the Biitish and Intercolonial Lxiiihilien, to l:<* j rod’llt at the iuf)iiv on Si.turelay, tlic loth, inst., hut will visit the Exhibition about the end of the year."

From Sir Win. and I.ady Hall-Tones. Wellington: '—-“Thanks Die President of the British and fiiteieoloiiial Exhibition for Die kind invitation to the opening on the loth. inst. and regrets they have to he in Wellington on thatPate, but hope to visit the Exhibition it closes.

From ;j. 11. Blank well. nsq., Nu eP resident. Canterbury Progress League, Kaial oi : “I much regret that ] aip unable to accept your kind invitation to the opening of your ExliPmtion. As Vice-President of the Canterbury Front p.-'k League I should niti-h like to have li t n |iresent. on this historic occasion. 1 hope to be aide to ■visit the Exhibition later. \\ ith ajiologie- for absence and liest wislies lot the Micco.ss ol* tlic l*.xliil>ition.

From IT. (Joane, Esq., flu i-lehuieU : "Very much regiets that he is niialde to accept Die kind invisntion to the I’.iiti.sh am) Intercolonial Exhibition to he held lit Hokitika on the LTD'. December next, lutt sincerely trusts the opening will be a great nieces.-."

From I*. Krnser. K-<|.. M l'- "'cliingfon Central:—“l I»'W to acknowledge v ' tin; receipt of voui" very-kind iiiviinUon to ntteml tlu.' opening ceremony of your Exhibition Buddings on SMuiday. Pocoiulht t0i1... also t-Kc ticket id admission to the Exhibition. and invitation to l>e present at the I’iC'idontial reception. I’loase accept m.v sincere thank" for your great kmdnew and hospit ulity. 1 regret very much that it will not he possible tor me to 1,3 present at tile opening ceremony, hut hope to he able to vi-ut the Extnhilion Inter on. X tru-t that you will Pave a most successful day on 1 1, comber 1.-. th. and that the Exhibition will result in much good to Westland, the West Const and New /calami generally." . r . From Hull. d. M. Colion M Tltniedin : —“lt is witli extreme regret that I have to intorni you that I .‘-hall not he able to accept, the invitation of sour Executive to alteiid the opening Westland Exhibition on the loth. ’ hist. l T titler ordinary circumstances. ! would have made a big eli'ort to he with von on such an epoch-marking occasion, hut owing to the imlilVere.it state „f my Itealth I have heen ordered to the north to reenperate in the thenmd ioami on Saturday I travel northward to Helensville. With the utmost cot (Utility t wish your Ivxliibit ion every success, feeling sure that the extent and variety of the exhibits will convince those who attend that the potentialities of the West Coast are practically illimitable, a fact that was h, me in upon me when I toured \\ estlani from end to end in 1001 . bet your slogan ever l.c ‘'Progress” and 1 am confident that in the near future your district will rejoice in an augmented population and so share in the general advancement and prosperity of the Dominion.” From Hon. Charles Lmijsson,

Christchurch: ; —“Withes to return hit thanks to Mr \V. J. Butler, President of the Exhibition Council tor hi.s kind invitation to him nud Mrs T.oukson to he present at the opening ceremony to he held at Hokitika. 'Westland, on the p'ih. December, lie regrets, howovr, that, in e(ii!s<|U‘-nee oi being unwell, ho "jii I.e unable m b- ji.--.-m on that i,,n. Mi |. 1111 . however, lying a a old We-1 C'-aster. and having been -I iui-ino-s at Hokitika -oine years, "ill take the first opportunity to visit the West Coast and meet his many I',mads there, and admire the many improveiiieill - earned 011 l there. ’A it 11 I- nil! I egard-. he hol e- that the llig el the Exhihiliou '..i1l he a 1110-l -He. le-sful fuimtiell." I roiii lion. 11 -■ . M. Thomsen. M 1.. C. D'.iu-diii :—‘ I legret that engagement s in Dunedin ol long standing on the it nd ! Ill:, in-1.. will prevent 11 >. being present at the op-ming el toil: Kxhibitirm on Saturday lotll. inst. f ri ii.sl you will have a veiy sueeesslul 1 1:11 eti 011 and I lint Dm Exhibition will realise fully the aspirations of its jirn-mi-lei-. I.ater on I hope to he aide \ isi' Hokitika, and ■< a. it.” | 'nun Cndei Secretary Mines Dept., Wellington: “1 base to aek now leij.g 1 with appreciation and pleasure your kindly invitation to attend the opening ceremony eonm-etc-t, with the Exhibition. which is lie held at Hm.ilika, and sincerely regret that owing to pa ess lire of importune public business. | will he unable tonvail myself of your kind invitation. 1 'do- the opo: limit,' ol exp-ie-'ing til" hope that lb" Exhibit ios- will be mo ‘-still ill every way.”