VALEDICTORY.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VIII, Issue 670, 20 May 1914, Page 5

VALEDICTORY.

BAt IQTJET TO MR DONALDSON

The many friends of Mr Donaldson, di istrict road engineer, met at the 1 Municipal Hall on Saturday flveninj \ to mark his departure from Tfl Kui ti on twevle cr.onthg" leave of absence.. The function passed off successfull; 1, Mr Alf. Julian being in the chair. Representatives from the various G cvernment Departments and different: parts of the district were , present. Tho chairman, in speaking to tho toast of "Our Guest," paid a tribate to tho past services of Mr Donaldson, and particularly emphasised the> success that hod attended hia work while in charge of the Te Kuiti road district—a district, from a reading standpoint, recognised as one of the moat difficult in New Zealand, He extended to Mr Donald- | son the best wishes from his staff and fellow Government officials, and trusted that a speedy return to Rood health and promotion in the Public Works Department on his return to duty. He naked Mr Donaldson's acceptance of an escritoire and book case from hia fellow Civil servants as an indication of their regard and appreciation of his sterling qualities. Tho presentation was accompanied by hearty cheers from those present. Mr Donaldson, in accepting the presentation, acknowledged the kindly assistance received at all times from the officials of various other Government Departments represented in Te Kuiti and the loyalty always extended to him by officials and men under hia control. He appreciated the motive that prompted the tendering of the banquet and presentation, and thanked all present for their share in the succeosful function. His best thanks were due to the chairman and officials of the Waitomo County Council for valued assistance extended to him. The fact that several members of the staff had departed for Taumarunui during the past few weeks, the large number present was an added hGnour to him and was doubly appreciated. The chief toast was supported by Messrs Scholes, Mora, Gould, Carroll, A. B. Jordan, and the new district engineer, Mr Thomson. Several toasts were honoured during the evening, and songs rendered by Messrs Gould, Donaldson and other gentlemen. At the special request of the gathering, Mr and Mrs Edgar were extended the best thanks of the gathering for the very attractive and inviting arrangement of the banquet, which waß voted one of the best yet provided in Te Kuiti.