A MATAMATA HEROINE.

Matamata Record, Volume II, Issue 90, 11 July 1918, Page 2

A MATAMATA HEROINE.

Enthusiastic Reception. The fact that Mrs Gould, a Matamata survivor from the illfated Wimmera, would arrive home on Saturday was not generally known, but never-the-less the congregation at the station when the express arrived was large. Without invitation of any kind the people had assembled in honor of an old lady, whose qctions, words and cheering disposition had helped so much those who suffered in the disaster. On arriving on Saturday Mrs Gould was followed to a motor car (gaily decorated with flags) by an enthusiastic populace. On the step of the car Mr J. F. Vosper, on behalf of the chairman of the Town board, officially welcomed the heroine. Surrounded by members of her own family the love in the old lady came out, and it did not need two glances to see that she was deeply moved by the people’s enthusiasm. The sentiments expressed by Mr Vosper were those of all in attendance. Perhaps the most striking tribute to Mrs Gould, was that of a passenger on the train who, as he was borne from the station, gave three cheers alone “ for the old lady.” This man was a fellow survivor, and would have had the people with him in his respects but for the fact that they were so spontaneous, and that Mr Vosper was in the middle of his welcoming address. Mrs Gould was a guest at an “at home ” held at Taihoa on Saturday evening. The evening was held at the residence of Mr and Mrs J. E. West, speeches of welcome and congratulations being made by the host and Mr P. Quinlan.