VALEDICTORY.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XXXII, Issue 8807, 8 May 1907, Page 2

VALEDICTORY.

Mr 'T. P. Firman, who has retired from the railway service, and who is leaving for Carterton to enter into business, was farewelled by the Martou railway staff and friends at the Junction refreshment rooms last evening. Rev. Father Molloy occupied the chair, and on his right sat the guest of the evening und ~ml the left was supported by Railway Statioumaster Andrews.

As a mark of appreciation and goodwill ex-Statioumaster Firman was made the recipient of a handsome case of pipes, subscribed for by the Junction railway stall’ and a few friends. Father Molloy made the presentation. He said the town had been very fortunate in having efficient officers, but they were unfortunate in having to lose their services so quickly. Statioumaster Firman had been a civil and obliging officer, and at all times ready and willing to meet any question that arose as to pubile or private convenience. By Mr Firman’s retirement the Department was losing g capable officer, and : big loss Wonlct also be felt by the public. In acknowledging the presentation, Mr Firman said that such a recognN tion of ‘bis services was keenly ap| prociatfed, because bo was brt 'a servant of the public. Ho had only been, in charge of Martou railway station for a comparatively short time, and ho felt that ho hardly deserved such recognition. Without being deemed egotistical he could say that the staff of officers he had to work with were second to none in efficiency. They had to work long hours, hut had never demurred. Ho was retiring from the service because ho felt like giving a private business a trial. Ho would carry with him pleasant memories of his all too short sojourn in Mafton.

Statioumaster "Andrews alluded to the great progress in the railway business at Martou Junction during the past few months. This meant more work, and it had been carried out with marked success by Mr Firman. His loss would be felt by the Department. Mr J. Aitken, speaking on behalf of the second division, referred to the good feeling that had always existed between the staff and their officer. Tfiey regretted His departure, and wished him .success in his new sphere. • • . . . ..

A ’ short toast list was gone, through; Interspersed by songs green by Rev. Father Molloy and Messrs W. Morgan, E. Dale, W. Hagan, H. Northover, W. MoGonagle, W. Marrow and A, Rodgers.. ; ,

The singing of “ Auld Lang Syne” concluded a pleasant social function.