BANQUET TO LIEUT. FLETCHER

Kaipara and Waitemata Echo, 2 September 1915, Page 2

BANQUET TO LIEUT. FLETCHER

A MILITARY banquet was tendered to Lieut. Fletcher (late of Helensville), recently returned from the Dardanelles, wounded, in Mr A. Bishop's Terminus Hotel, on Wednesday evening, by the members of the local forces, when about sixty sat down to a sumptuous repast, which was excellently laid out by host and hostess Bishop. Captain Turley presided, and he was supported on his right by the guest of the evening, and on his left by Q.M.S. Fosbroke.

After the usual loyal and patriotic toasts were dealt with, the toast of the guest of the evening was most enthusiastically drunk. Lieut. Fletcher suitably replied, giving -a graphic account of his experiences, which were well listened to throughout amidst much applause.

• A number of other toasts were drunk, and telling speeches were made, while ex-Sergt.-Major Thorpe (who happened to be in the town) spoke at length on the necessity for more recruits, as no-matter what happened " England and her allies must win the battle of the brave." The function was a most happy one, and was brought to a close at one-minute-to-ten by the singing of "God Save the King," the only vocal item during the evening.