ALL SAINTS’ BAZAAR.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXII, Issue 919, 17 November 1910, Page 3

ALL SAINTS’ BAZAAR.

The interior of the dingy Public Hall was converted into a picturesque market by the ladies of All Saints’ Guild and the male committee in preparation for the bazaar, which was formally opened by Mr Newman, M.P., yesterday afternoon. Artistically draped stalls, containing all manner of useful articles and pi oduce, were presided over by charming and enterprising ladies and their assistants. Besides these there were the mystic bran tub the delight of the kiddies—and two amusing side-shows. Charmingly attired little flower girls flitted hither and thither, eager for business, while ticket sellers were persistent in their efforts to quit articles by competition. The stage was set apart as a tea-room, and appeared to be particularly well patronised. The bazaar was formally opened by Mr Newman at about 4 p.m. In introducing the member for the district, the vicar explained that the object of the bazaar was for the purpose of raising sufficient funds {£100) to improve the church grounds. He paid a tribute to Mr Newman, who had come at great sacrifice and personal inconvenience, to perform the opening ceremony, and concluded by stating that they had heard that a statement had been publihed to the effect that Foxton might go bung,” but the speaker said there was no fear of that so long as Mr Newman sat on the “bung-hole.” Mr Newman, who was received with applause, said it was a pleasure to be present. Mr Massey and the Member for Oroua had kindly consented to look after the interests of this constituency during his temporary absence from the House. If, in the future, he was blamed for neglecting his duty, those present, jointly and severally, would also have to share the responsibility. It was very difficult to get about the electorate as he would like, hut the time at his disposal was very limited. Whenever possible, his services were at their disposal. He referred to the splendid exhibition of goods on Ihe various stalls, the result 01 much self-sacrificing work on the part of the ladies, and be was sure they would not be sold under their value He referred to the progress Foxton was making, and said two great factors which would add to Foxton’s prosperity, and which they were striving tor, were the acquisition of the wharf and the extension of the tram lo either Bulls or Marton, and he hoped before long that the efforts would meet with a measure ol success. He was much tempted to say something on politics, but would leave that subject until after the session closed when he would again visit Foxton. He briefly alluded to the port and the progress the town would make if the harbour was placed on the same footing as Wanganui, Patea and Waitara. He also referred to the recent Mission, and hoped that the good accomplished would be lasting. He hoped the bazaar would result in financial success, and formally declared it open. Upon resuming his seat, the little sou of tne vicar presented the member with a handsome buttonhole, which was suitably acknowledged. Mr W. S. t>tewa/t, vicar’s churchwarden, appropriately thanked the member for bis services and for bis admirable, appropriate and eloquent address. People expected too much of their representatives—they were inconsiderate —they thought an M.P.’s body was made of cast iron. Surely, said Mr Stewart, rushing round the country in order to attend such tuuctious was a weariness of the flesh. People also thought an M.P. had a fat billet but the honorarium was not sufficient to meet the many public calls upou his purse. They also thought that his mind contained an unlimited number of speeches as it it were a 600 or 800 gallon lank and that he could turn on the tap at will. He called tor a vote of thanks which was carried by acclamation. Mr Newman suitably responded. The takings last night totalled approximately Mr Betty’s orchestra supplied some spirited music during the evening.

The side-shows weue well patronised and created much amusement. The bazaar will be open this afternoon and evening.