STATE SCHOOL CELEBRATION.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XL, Issue 1886, 5 October 1918, Page 3

STATE SCHOOL CELEBRATION.

In order to celebrate the British and Allies’ victory in Bulgaria, followed by the latter’s unconditional surrender, the Government Ims granted a holiday to all schools on Monday next. Owing to a visit by the inspector's on Monday, (lie local children will observe Tuesday ns a holiday. Under the circumstances, a celebration was held in the Town Hull yesterday afternoon, when all the scholars assembled for the purpose named. The headmaslcr (Mr Currie), in explaining Iho object of (he assembly, referred lo Bulgaria’s geographical position, and what may occur in the near future as a result of this enemy crying enough. The Hag, which was suspended from the balcony, was saluted by the children. This was followed by the declaration: “I Jove God and my country, I honour the King, and will always obey my parents and teachers and the laws of the land.” “Hearts of Oak” and “Softly the Shades” were sung by the scholars under the baton of Mr Gabifes. And let ns hero pay a tribute to the singing of (ho children. The two songs afforded an opportunity for correct inlorprefation and harmony. The tuneful blending of (he voices in the latter song was a treat. The Chairman of Committee (Mr TTornhlow) then addressed the children. lie briefly traced Bulgaria’s .entry into the war, her subsequent treachery, and (ho crushing of Servia. It was only a*mailer of time when Turkey would he compelled to cry enough. He hoped that the sacred spots on Gallipoli in which so many of those near and dear to them had spilt their life’s blood in tin* cause of liberty and righteousness would soon ho free of access and set aside as a memorial to nm"fallen heroes. He urged the children to he loyal, obedient and faithful to King and constitution, parents and teachers, and to.grow up worthy members of our glorious Empire. He applied the lesson of Bulgaria’s treachery, and urged the children to stand up against treachery and disloyalty. The National Anthem and cheers for our soldiers. King and Empire, concluded the.ceremony. Before the children dispersed the Chairman' presented the school with a New Zealand ensign, amidst much enthusiasm.