BLACK HAND REVELS

Hokitika Guardian, 17 October 1929, Page 3

BLACK HAND REVELS

There were sounds of revelry by night, And Westland’s capital had gathered there, Her beauty and her chivalry. A thousand hearts beat happily; And, when Music arose with its voluptuous swell, Soft eyes looked love to eyes, which

spoke again. And all went merry as a marriage ■bell!

Yes, it was something akin to that night of old in Belgium’s capital the poet has spoken of. The occasion was the first annual hall of the Black Hand Society, that mysterious organisation which pervades society, and the Soldiers’ Hall was crowded with a gay and festive throng for a night’s enjoyment. The Hall took on its gayest appearance both in colour and light. The decorations were a feature of the occasion, and reflected credit on the designers, of whom Mr Les. Eager and Mr J. Menzies, were the prime movers. The colour scheme was brilliant and the setting original. Black hands were there in profusion, and with the mystic word “Beware” qmblazoned below, seemed to be a reminder to all to watch their steps. There was a great luminous eye in one corner of the ball room, above which was the legend: “Unknown we know; Unknown we see;” and this looked out on the crowded assemblage all knowing and all sect fig. In another corner there was the legend “Evil be to him who evil thinks,” and below a dripping sanguinary dagger which was a reminder of the hidden clanger for the wrong-doer. Another legend at the usual retreat to the lounge, gave the warning: “Abandon hope, all ye> who enter here,” but once inside, a pleasant, surprise awaited the intrepid one's, for cooling drinks and a fresher atmosphere were to be enjoyed in the retreat. There were many interesting devices about the wall, including the Society’s mascot, a cat ns black as the sign manual of the organisation. The gay colouring and lighting always attracted attention, and when the more brilliant lighting was operated by the electrician, the scene was one of very pleasing gaiety.

The Highmaster and Highmistress received their guests in due form, and the initiated passed mystic signs in recognition of each other. It was all very eerie and intriguing, till the music filled the air and then all was laughing gaiety. The frocking of the ladies was in keeping with the general brilliancy of the scene. Visitors

were present from various parts, and early in the proceed.ngs the floor was overcrowded for pleasure dancing. But patrons were not to be denied, for the alluring music of the Black Hand Orchestra was too seductive. The members of the orchestra did not wear their gowns, which were missed by some, but the excellence of the music made amends for any such shortcoming. Air F. Groufsky was the Loud Speaker, or rather the Matser of Ceremonies, and saw that everything was “soft” when necessary. Dancing proceeded with hut brief interludes, and the scene was always merry and bright, with the proceedings very jovial. At a suitable interval, supper was served to the concourse in relays in the annexe. Mrs Preston was the caterer, and everything in the refreshment department was well served. The whole occasion was made the most of by all present and the first gathering of the Society must be written down as an outstanding success. The Highmaster was the recipient of many congratulations, including, several messages of goodwill. One from the Member for the District conveyed regrets to his tunnelling friends for his absence and wishing the jovial party a jolly time—and that wish appeared to be amply gratified.