A POPULAR OFFICIAL.

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

A POPULAR OFFICIAL.

Farewell to IVIr W. M. R. Free. On Monday night last one of the largest and most enthusiastic farewell functions was held in the Matamata Public hall in honor of Mr and Mrs W. H. R. Free. Those residents who have been situated in Matamata for any length of time knew that the function was bound to be a popular one, but oven the committee which had the affair in hand did not expect such a large attendance. Residents who knew the guests went early, while those who had been informed of their excellent qualities made an effort to justify friends’ remarks ; and so at the appointed hour there were ready to receive Mr and Mrs Free a whole host of well-wishers. And the arrangements were even then not found wanting. A capable ladies’ committee did excellent work in preparation and on the evening, and it was to them to whom most of the thanks for the success of the function were due. The supper was very tasty and was served in a nice manner, and was greatly enjoyed. Another important deportment, that of providing the vocal items and dance music, was in the most capable hands of Mr W. T. Darby. The statement that his wife and himself, with the assistance of Mr J. Cumming (cornet) provided the dance music, is sufficient to indicate the success in that sphere. Among those who contributed vocal items were Miss Oliver (niece of Mr J. W. Finnerty) and Mr H. W. Smales. Both performers were very well received, and their items were much appreciated. Mr R. Burke, as master of ceremonies, proved his efficiency by carrying out his duties' to the satisfaction of all. The principal part of the function, the presentation and address of farewell, was delayed until aftei> supper, and when Mr J. Price, chairman of the Town board, rose to speak he was greeted with loud cheers. He said it was a very agreeable and pleasant duty he had to perform, for’he personally knew of the great worth to Matamata Mr Free had been for nearly four years as postmaster. As a public officer—he was going to say there had never been a better —but he could not be surpassed. He had been courteous always, tactful and most obliging. Nothing within his scope was too much for him to do. That meant that he had served his department as faithfully as it had wished, and the public more than it really expected. Mrs Free had been .a tower of strength to her church in Matamata, and had assisted at social and patriotic functions with ability and energy. In addition both had made themselves friends of many. Therefore it was but natural that genuine regret was felt at the family’s departure. All were glad that they were not going far away, and hoped to receive many future visits. He wished them long life and prosperity. He |had very much pleasure in handing Mr Free a case of pipes, and Mrs Free a most beautiful spray of pearls as tokens of esteem. Mr Free, in responding on behalf of himself and his wife, stated that they were really sorry to leave Matamata, where they had spent many happy days. Personally he thanked the people for the way they had acted towards him officially, and to his family privately. It was good to meet nice people. The Free family could never forget the people of Matamata, and would not wish so to do. He was pleased to know that he. was succeeded by a man who had a most excellent departmental record, and hoped the same friendly disposition towards the postmaster would continue. Mr and Mrs Free were accorded musical honors, and at the conclusion of the function, at about 2 a.m., all joined in singing “ Auld Lang Syne.”