VALEDICTORY.

Matamata Record, Volume II, Issue 77, 11 April 1918, Page 3

VALEDICTORY.

r ,. Mr and Mrs G. H. Malcolm During the picture evening last Wednesday the Matamata' school committee through its chairman, Mr J. Pohlen, took the opportunity of making a public presentation to Mr G. H. Malcolm, who was leaving the district. In handing Mr Malcolm a handsome leather travelling bag for by the parents and friends, Mr Pohlen said the recipient had held a responsible position as headmaster of the Matamata - school for twenty-two months, and the services rendered had been,greatly appreciated To him had been given the work of moulding the characters, and training the minds of thosd who would be the - future citizens of Matamata, and. he had shown himself possessed of all the qualities that made for success in the position. x From his first few weeks at the school until leaving he had held the respect of the children, parents and committee. As most of those present knew Matamata had been raised to a high school district, . indirectly through the instrumentality of the headmaster who had made a personal canvass for pupils during his Christmas holidays. The hardest part, however, was that in consequence of some regulation his energies had resulted in him being unable to hold the position of headmaster of the school as a high school. Matamata would not forget his unselfish work, and wished* he and his wife and family health and good fortune. (Loud cheers.) In feelingly responding Mr Malcolm said he would leave Matamata with many regrets. He had enjoyed his work, and had made many life-long friends. Even now he was not sorry at having worked for the high school project for it meant for the betterment of education in a district in which he had become deeply interested. He also had the satisfaction of knowing that he had been superseded by one of the ‘best men in New Zealand, Mr Carnachau. His best wish was : that the latter would be treated by the people of Matamata as he - had been treated. v - Apresentationofa pair of ebonybacked hair brushes was made to Mr Malcolm by the Rifle club through Mr W. Gale,.; The latter spoke of the energy displayed by -Mr Malcolm- iifv connection with - the club, and also of his sporting qualities.. The guest was accorded musical honors. After the pictures a dancing evening was held in honor of the guests. There were over two hundred people present, and a very enjoyable evening was spent. The music was provided by Mr and Mrs W. T. Darby, with two dances by. Mr Inghani. Mr J. Pohlen held the position of M.C.