DEBATING CONTEST.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXVIII, Issue 3723, 17 November 1906, Page 2

DEBATING CONTEST.

The Foxton Debating Club tried conclusions with the Rongotea Club in the Rongotea Town Hall on Thursday evening before a good audience, and suffered defeat by 71 points. The aggregate points were Foxton 797, Rongotea 868 points. Mr F. Pirani acted as judge and gave general satisfaction. The subject debated was “ Is war justifiable ?” Mr Hornblow made a poor opening barely breaking any ground. He was followed by the Rev. Mr Simms (Rongotea) a very duent speaker, who made out a good case — in fact the judge awarded this speaker pride of place. Mr Harris (Foxton) made his maiden speech and acquitted himself very well indeed, followed by a speech equal in merit by Mr Gifford (Rongotea). The Rev. Mr Wilson (Foxton) then took up the running and did remarkably well— in fact the mistake was made in not allowing this speaker to open. He was followed by Mr Rock ell. The Rev. Mr Southern’s subject matter was excellent and created a very good impression on the audience and judge. Mr Ross (Rongotea) showed a marked improvement on his efforts at Foxton. Mr Simms closed well for Rongotea and Mr Hornblow started to “make the pace’’ at the wrong end. Mr Pirani threw in his convictions with Rongotea and added some very pregnant hints. The visitors were subsequently entertained at a banquet over which Mr Rockell presided. A list ot toasts were honoured, and taken alto-

getherthe affair was most enjoyable.