PRESBYTERIAN RE-UNION SOCIAL.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXV, Issue 1097, 15 May 1913, Page 2

PRESBYTERIAN RE-UNION SOCIAL.

The seating accommodation in the Masonic Hall was taxed to the utmost on Tuesday night, when the Presbyterian Re-union Social was held, following on the Reunion Services of Sabbath last. The programme and arrangements fully justified the very large and eagerly expectant gathering, and it is, perhaps, not too much to say that no more successful function of the kind has been held here for a long time. The items were exceedingly varied in character, and each of its kind was undeniably first-class. The musical contributions was indeed a rare treat, and the appreciation of the audience were indeed unmistakeable. Messrs T, P. Henderson and J. Buglass, who opened with a duet, were in excellent voice and were splendidly received, as also were Messrs Buglass and Masters later in the very fine duet, which was rendered with superlative effect. Mr Chrystall’s clear and cultured tenor was heard to great advantage in his splendid rendition ol the martial song, “ The Veteran’s Song;” Mr Masters’ first effort, “ Longshoreman Billy,” placed him in high favour from the beginning and created a vociferous demand lor an encore to which he responded with Queen of Angels,” his choice rendering of which again captivated the audience. Mr T. P. Henderson was exquisite in his sympathetic interpretation of “ A Wee Bit 0’ Heather,” and brought down the house with the “ long bit of advice,” he gave as an encore. Mrs Bethune of Oroua Downs charmed the audience with her sweet, bird-like singing of “ The Land of Nod,” and delighted them again at their imperative recall with “The Garden of Roses” ; later also, she and Mrs H. C. Patterson contributed a very pretty duet with very pleasing effect. The humorous element was effectively supplied by Mr Bethune, whose song in character created roars of laughter which increased the more at his reappearance on emphatic demand. The Lancashire Clog Dance by Mr Knewstub was an exceedingly clever performance and every part of it was eagerly watched and followed ; his banjo selection also showed his dexterity in the manipulation of that popular instrument. Miss Jenka with her agreeable readiness and exceptional skill acted as accompaniste for the evening. Great interest was taken in the competition which proved to be of the nature of a detective hunt for seven guiltly folk each wearing a letter of the word “Re-union.” The hunt was vigorously prosecuted by a large number, even little ones joining eagerly in it, causing much «tir and merriment thereby. Miss Jeannle McKnight proved herself the chief of detectives for the occasion and received a small prize as a reward for her industry and skill. The Ladies* Guild upheld their high fame in connection with the refreshments at the close, though to cater lavishly for such a large gathering was no slight ordeal to face. Both in qualiy and quantity of provisions, however, the ladies proved themselves quite unconquerable. Rev. J. M. Thomson, M.A., who presided, expressed the gratification of the church officials and of the Ladies Guild members at the very hearty response to all efforts made in connection with these Re-union functions, and tendered sincere thanks to all who had contributed to the entertainment of th& evening. The social was brought to a close with the singing of the National Anthem.