VALEDICTORY.

Hokitika Guardian, 3 April 1924, Page 2

VALEDICTORY.

SEND OFF TO Ml! A. AJTKEX. One of the heartiest gatherings in St Amliew’s flail in recent times was that held last night to do honour to Mr A. Ait ken, when the Mayor (Mr G. Perry) with other prominent townsmen and a large attendance were present. Rev P. B. Fraser presided. A short musical programme began the proceedings, all the items id' which were enjoyed and appropriate to the occasion. Ihe chairman mentioned that the occasion of their social evening was to do honour to Mr Aitkou and to express on the pait of hi.-, friends in a visible and tangible way the esteem in which be was universally held, and the gratitude ielt lor bis many unselfish services. He would leave to succeeding speakers the pleasure of giving voice to their sentiments. On behalf of Mi: Ait ken’s friends the Rev Eraser then presented him with gifts suitable to the occasion, consisting of a handsome travelling bag, a wristlet watch, and a set nt razors for bis journey, expressing the hope that the gifts would be a suitable souvenir of bis many friends. The audience expressed themselves in singing “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow” with great gusto. Speeches of a highly congratulatory nature were given by the Mayor, Mr Bruce, Mr Folley, and Mr Murdoch, all bearing witness to the esteem in which Mr Aitken is held oil the West Coast, both a- a man and as a banker. Mr Aitken responded in expressing his acknowledgments for the expressions of" good will which lie greatly appreciate ; and for the gifts which would on his travels remind him of home and Hokitika. He expected to visit England and Scotland, and pay a pilgrimage 'o places rendered famous by the illustrious men of their race, lie would visit. Egypt and see some of its wonders, and also Italy and the famous old city of Rome which the great Apostle Paul, nearly 1900 years ago entered as a herald of the Gospel. Though taking a six months’ holiday after long years of banking service, be was not immediately retiring from the Bank on Ins return. Social tea was then handed round, and after a most enjoyable evening. the company dispersed with the .National Anthem. Mr Aitken expects to leave Hokitika on Easter Monday.