THE BLUFF SAILORS’ REST.

Southern Cross, Volume 2, Issue 32, 3 November 1894, Page 8

THE BLUFF SAILORS’ REST.

[By Rambler.]

Visitors to the Bluff on Wednesday must have returned to their homescharmed with their day’s outing 1 . To the residents, a red-letter day hasbeen added to the annals of that place, the main cause of which was the opening of the “ Countess of Glasgow Sailors’ Rest,” lately erected there. The various vessels in port marked the occasio'n by an elaborate display of bunting. The weather was lovely, the sun shining brightly and warmly, with .a few fleecy clouds in. attendance, and just sufficient wind to keep the flags extended, yet barely enough to cause a ripple on the water. There was a large attendance of the general public, about 300 being present, of whom the ladies formed a prominent part, thereby showing the deep interest they take in such matters. As spring dresses were worn it. is needless to add that they gave a pretty effect to the scene. The opening ceremony was performed by the Hon. J. G. Ward in his customary happy manner. Mr Thos. Dennis ton and Mr S. Hichol also contributed short speeches. Then followed an inspection of the building and fittings by the general public,who found much to admire. Both the Hon. J. G. Ward and Mr SHichol spoke in very eulogistic terms of Mr Thomas Denniston, to whoseexertions the successful issue of the venturers undoubtedly due. It was notified that, owing to thecourtesy of the Hon. J. G. Ward,. Postmaster-General, newspapers from any part of Hew Zealand will be passed free of postage if addressed to the Sailors’ Rest, Bluff Harbor. In the evening a. concert was held, upon the poop of the barque Wairoa, the “ concert hall ” being covered with sails and prettily decorated with, flags and Chinese lanterns by the crew. The allotted space was crowded with people. Oapt. Fox acted as chairman and carried out the duties of his office in a jovial and hearty manner. The following were the performers : Mesdames Walker, Williams, MissJohnson (Invercargill), Messrs Grey, Froggatt, Shelton, W. Waddell,. Walker, Reed, Slater, and Croucher (Invercargill), Misses Waddell and Bradshaw acting as accompanists .

The Bluff Brass Band also assisted, and played in a very creditable manner. The singers all acquitted themselves admirably. To the ladies’ committee, consisting of Mesdames Ward, S. ISTichol, Gardiner, Grey, and Hunter, is the success of this concert due, and it speaks volumes for their efforts when it is stated that they only began operations on Monday. All present expressed their enjoyment and heartily cheered the committee at the conclusion. Bravo, ladies ! must add that I heard it said that it was the best concert ever held in the Bluff. Capt. Fox spared no effort to make it the success it was. Cheers hearty hearty and long were accorded him, and it is hoped he and his gallant ship will be spared to be welcomed at the Bluff for many years to come. “ God save the Queen,” played by the band, closed a delightful afternoon.