A MIXED MARRIAGE.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXIX, Issue 4254, 7 November 1874, Page 3

A MIXED MARRIAGE.

(From the Otayo Daily Times, October 31.) Marrying and giving in marriage, eating and drinking, and making merry (writes our Kaik correspondent) has been the order of the day of late. On the 20th instant, Mr. Alfred Kihau, nephew of John Topi, Chief of Stewart's Island, was married to the daughter of Mr. Thomas Pratt, of Waikouaiti. The uncle and nephew agreed to spend (jointly) £l5O over the happy event; consequently a large gathering took place on the day they were married at Waikouaiti. As the bride and bridegroom had many friends and relatives here, these were entertained at a similar affair in the Council Hall, when', with Natives and Europeans, there could not have been less than 130 present on the evening of the 26th inst. Garlands of white wild flowers were suspended across the ceiling, giving a very pretty and appropriate effect, looking not unlike a mass of orange blossoms. In the centre of the cross table, and opposite a very fine bride's cake, sat Mr. and Mrs. Kihau, and at either end were Messrs. Taiaroa and Topi, who both, with the bride's father, made speeches as the cake and wine were handed round. On drinking the health of the newlymarried couple, enthusiastic cheering followed by the company, who sat at a long centre table. The ball was opened by Mr. Taiaroa and Mrs. Kihau, and Mr. Kihau and Mrs. Taiaroa. Dancing was kept up in a most spirited manner until 5 a.m. The bride looked young and beautiful, besides being most appropriately attired. Husband and wife take with them to their new home (Stewart's Island) the best wishes of all the people here. On the following Wednesday a European marriage was solemnized, when a goodly number of well-wishers and friends met together to enjoy the hospitality of the happy couple at • a supper and dance. It is evident, though in a somewhat remote corner, the people make up their minds to enjoy themselves as circumstances permit.