VALEDICTORY.

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXIII, Issue 4386, 6 March 1922, Page 2

VALEDICTORY.

AT KOMATA REEFS. AN APPRECIATED SCHOOLMASTER MR. R. A. WATSON. One of the largest and most enthusiastic gatherings, that has assembled in Komata for years inet on Tuesday evening to farewell. Mr R. A Watson, headmaster of the Komata school. No effotrs were spared to ensure an enjoyable evening, and the promoters received great praise for the able manner in which the programme was handled. THE ENTERTAINMENT, Trios, recitations, monologues, and songs were given between the dances by Misses Jamieson, Rolt, McCormick, Benney, and Masters Ryan, McCormick, and Rolt. The talent displayed by the children was most' creditable, while their enthusiasm tp contribute their share to the evening’s pleasure was unbounded. With his usual touch of Irish humour Mr P. Ryan contributed a comic song. Messrs Benney, Hall, and Watson also obliged the company with songs. Mrs Ryan acted as pianist in a finished manner, being relieved for extras by Mr Watt. Mr A. McCormick acted as M.C., and the floor was perfect, so what more could have been desired ? PRESENTATION. Just before supper Mr Ryan, chairman of the school committee, addressed the gathering. They had come to bid farewell to their schoolteacher, Mr Watson, after his t,wo years’ sojourn among them. They deeply regretted losing him, not only because he was a proven teacher, but also because they, would’miss his personality in the district. Mr Ryan referred to the phenomenal progress made by the school last year, when the institution carried off more prizes than any other scho.pl—town or country—for modelling, agriculture, art, etc. They also wished to congratulate Mr Watson on his own successes, and wish him every advancement and joy in the future.’ Mr Ryan then called for Mr Watson to receive a handsome presentation as a token of their gobdr will and esteem. THE GUEST RESPONDS. Mr Watspn replied with great feeling. He felt very sad at having to part from such kind friends, and thanked them for their countless kindnesses shown him, and particularly for the splendid gift and evening. Noni Jamieson then called for cheers from the school children, which were lustily given. Supper comprised a bountiful array of delicacies which would have delighted the palate of the most exacting of connoisseurs. _ Dancing continued until well after midnight, but all too soon the end drew near. The assembly then sang “Auld Lang Syne,” while the had shook with cheer upon cheer called for the guest of the evening.