A Lady's Letter.

Manawatu Herald, 27 July 1897, Page 3

A Lady's Letter.

Wbllinotok, July 24, 1897. It seems quite a long time since! last wrote, but to tell the truth there has been absolutely nothing of interest to write abont. I don't remember when there was such a dull winter, season here before. Next month, however, there will be plenty going on, what with tbe coming of our new Governor and tbe different functions given to Welcome him, besides private balls and parties which are being talked about. Tbe Hutt ladies are giving a fancy dress ball on the 6tb, which ought to be very successful, as these ladies are already famed for their excellent entertainments. The ball of balls will be the military ball given to His Excellency Lord Ranfurly and Lady Raufurly in the drillshed. I believe it is going to be done on a very elaborate scale and as the price of tickets is very moderate, it will sure to be successful. The Star Boating Club's annual ball took place on Friday night in Thomas's Hall and, with the exception of there not being quite enough dancing men, proved very enjoyable. The hall was splendidly decorated, as is always the case at these balls. AU 'round the room on the walls were oars arranged in the shape of huge fans, interwined with blue and white ribbon, the Club's colours, while photographs, mirrors and greenery added greatly to the pretty effect. King's band of five or six performers supplied the music, and a splendid sit-down supper was laid out upstairs. As far as I know there were only two debutantes present on this occasion— Miss Lucy TolhurStP whose gown was of lovely white-satin, prettily trimmed with gathered and frilled chiffon and Miss Curtis, who also wore a pretty gown of white satin with long chiffon frills on the bodice. Other gowns which struck me as being particularly pretty were worn by Mrs Biss, light orange silk trimmed with chiffon and violets ; Miss Fairchild, cream brocade, with one large dark red rose on the front of the corsage ; Miss Edwards, black velvet trimmed with silver embroidery and white accordian chiffon ; Miss Ross, very pale pink silk trimmed with chiffon to match and purple violets, and Miss I Lee in light green corded silk. The latest engagement announced here is that between Miss Hamerton, who i 3* well known in musical circles, and Mr Laurance Watkin3, organist of St. Mark's Churoh. Miss Gore's wedding takes place next month, while early in September Miss Menzies, second daughter of Mrs L. Menzies, is to be married to Mr Duncan Menzies, of Invercargill. It will be observed that in this oase the young lady will hot have to change her name, as is u.stfal on these auspicious occasions. Lady Douglas gave a large ' afternoon tea ' the other day to all those who had helped her in the entertainment which she got up in aid of the Rangitikei Relief Fund. Mrs Tolhurst, Mrs Joseph and Mrs Rose also gave very pleasant " teas " last week. I am afraid that is all the news I have for you this week. There saems to be nothing but sales going on here just now, and there is nothing very interesting about them to tell you. SIGKA.