VALEDICTORY.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXII, Issue 860, 2 July 1910, Page 2

VALEDICTORY.

FAREWELL TO THE WALDEN FAMILY.

The largest gathering of a social character yet held at Moutoa took place last night, when Gardiner’s Hall was packed to its utmost capacity with settlers and their families to bid farewell to Mr and Mrs J. Walden and family. As previously mentioned in these columns, Mr Walden has disposed of his farm to Mr Jagger, and has taken up land in the Auckland province. A committee of Moutoa settlers decided to make the family a fitting farewell, and to present them with a token of esteem. The chair was occupied by Mr W. S. Carter, who, in opening, referred to the very high esteem in which the family are held in the district, and the regret expressed at their departure. The guests would carry away with them the best wishes for success in their new home. Mr Alex. Saunders endorsed all that had been said by the chairman, and added that no family held a higher place in the esteem of their fellow settlers than the Waldens. Moutoa could illafford to lose them. He referred to the excellent characteristics of individual members of the family, particularly singling out Miss May Walden, Ml of whom he had known from infancy. Mr T. Bowe in asking the family to accept a handsome marble clock, set of carvers and silver spoon, referred to his long acquaintance with the guests whose departure they all regretted. The present occasion brought back to his mind a similar function which had taken place in Ireland many years ago, when as a youth he had left to seek fresh fields. Mr Walden, on behalf of his wife and family, suitably acknowledged the kindly sentiments that had been expressed by the speakers and said he would always treasure the mementos. He extended a hearty invitation to all friends to visit them in their new home—provided they didn’t all come at the one time (laughter), Mr Geo. Barber called for three cheers for the Walden family, which were given with great gusto. Messrs Hornblow and Clemett, on behalf of the Foxton representatives added their quota to the previous speakers remarks. During the evening an excellent concert programme was submitted and heartily appreciated. Those taking part were: Miss Smith, pianoforte solo ; song, Miss Laurvig ; recitation, Mr M. Carney ; song, Mr G. Barber; recitation, Miss Nimmo (in character) ; song, Mr Buclass ; recitation, Mr Hornblow ; song, Miss Aitken ; piano duet, Misses Furrie and B. Speirs; recitation, Mr J. Carney; duet, Mrs and Miss Laurvig; sone, Miss Barber; song, Mr Reeve; songl(comic), Mr Preston; reading, Mr Galland; monologue, Mr Yates ; and a humorous dialogue by three promising lads. A large number of items were encored. The accompaniments were played by Misses Furrie, Jenks, Laurvig and Mr Howard. Supper on a liberal scale was provided by the Moutoa ladies, who were also responsible for the pretty decorations. Votes of thanks were accorded the performers, chairman, and Mr Gardner for the use of the piano and hall. Auld Lang Syne was sung by all present, and personal good wishes were extended to Mr and Mrs Walden.

The proceedings concluded with a most enjoyable dance.