PUBLIC DINNER TO MR. ANDREW YOUNG.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 5274, 18 February 1878, Page 2

PUBLIC DINNER TO MR. ANDREW YOUNG.

A public dinner was given to Mr. Andrew Young on Saturday evening at the Empire Hotel, Dr. Diver, .1.P., in the chair. There were present Messrs. G. Hunter, M.H.K., Thomson, E. Pearce, J. Martin, Wright, T. K. Macdonald, 0. White, Shannon, Lowes, Moeller, and other leading citizens. The dinner was served in the usual good style for which the Empire Hotel is noted. On the removal of the cloth the usual loyal and patriotic toasts—the Queen, the Prince of Wales, and the rest of the Royal Eamily—were given and duly honored. The Chairman then proposed the health, of his Excellency the Governor, observing that this was the first occasion ou which he had the opportunity of doing so publicly. He expressed great pleasure in proposing the toast, and said they might be congratulated on having such a high-miuded nobleman to preside over the colony as the Marquis of Normauby, who was in all respects an English gentleman.' The toast was heartily received. The Chairman then proposed the toast of the evening “Thehealthof Mr. Andrew Young,” referring in complimentary terms to his honorable career in the colony, with which all those who were present were well acquainted. Mr. Young was known throughout the whole of the district, and was universally esteemed and respected. They would no doubt regret that Mr. Young was leaving the colony ; but he (the chairman) was happy to say that it was only for a time, and he hoped before long that they would see him back again amongst them with renewed health and vigor. Mr. Youno returned thanks, saying that ever since he came to New Zealand he had felt himself to be amongst friends for whom he entertained a high esteem. He had travelled, and seen other countries, but he was convinced that New Zealand was as prosperous aud as desirable a country for any person to live in as could be found anywhere, and he looked forward with feelings of pleasure to the time when he should be again back in Wellington, and once more amongst his kind and sincere friends. (Cheers). Other toasts were given and responded to, amongst which were “ The old settlers and the more recent arrivals,” “ Prosperity to the colony of New Zealand," “Absent friends,” the “ Ladies,” and the “ Chairman.” The guests separated about midnight, after spending a moat pleasant evening. We understand that Mr. Young will leave for Melbourne to-day in the Kingarooma.