VALEDICTORY

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 25 September 1914, Page 5

VALEDICTORY

PRESENTATION TO LATE

STATIONMASTER

THE railway employees of Helensville met at the Station Refreshment Rooms on Wednesday evening last, the 23rd inst., for the purpose of giving their old stationmaster a " farewell and presentation." About thirty members took part in the function, Mr Mercer, relieving stationmaster, presiding. After a very enjoyable repast, the toast of " The King " was enthusiastically drunk.

The next toast was " Our Guest," Mr Woodhouse, by Mr Mercer, who ,made eulogistic references to the retiring stationmaster, presenting at the same time a handsome oak liquor cabinet, suitably inscribed.

Messrs Smith, Hammond and Johnson also supported the remarks made, all agreeing that they regretted losing an old and esteemed friend in their late stationmaster.

Mr Woodhouse, in responding, said he could not express his feelings, and most heartily thanked his many friends for their kindly expressions and their handsome present, which he would ever remember with gratitude to tie Railway Department of Helensville.

The following toasts were then given, and responded to with much joviality and feeling:— " Railway- Officers' Institute," Mr Hammond.—Mr Roussell (a relieving stationmaster). "Amalgamated Society of Railway Servants," Mr Roussell. — Mr Campell. "Engineers, Firemen and Cleaners' Association," Mr Smith. — Mr Johnson.

" The Shippng and Commercial Interests," Dr Meinhold. —Messrs Caundle and Thompson. " The Ladies," Mr J. Taylor.— Mr T. Mcßae.

Musician and Caterer," Mr Mercer. —Mr Johnson. " Maintenance," Mr Nuttall. — Mr Syers.

Mr Johnson made a capable accompanist to the various songs contributed by Messrs Hammond, Smith, Tukukino, Knox, Rogers, and McKerbie.

The function concluded with "Old Lang Syne," and "God Save the King," and on the whole a most enjoyable evening was spent.