THE RICKARDS’ MEMORIAL DINNER.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXV, Issue 8, 6 January 1913, Page 3

THE RICKARDS’ MEMORIAL DINNER.

(‘Sydney Daily Telegraph.’) To perpetuate the memory of her late husband, Mrs. Harry Rickards gave a Christmas dinner to over a thousand of - the"poor of Sydney, in the basement of the Town Hall, on Christmas Day. When alive, the late vaudeville entrepreneur showed his charity-by scaring no expense over this annual function, and the last gathering—the ninth—eclipsed all others as regards success. Punctually at 1 o’clock the doors \yere opened, and a bunch of boys rushed in, and in very quick time every available seat was occupied. Mrs. feickards, accompanied by her son, welcomed her guests, many of whom were well dressed, and had not a poverty-stricken appearance. Remarks to this effect were passed, and Mrs. Rickards added, “They may be well dressed, but poor and hungry, nevertheless.” Then, again, numbers who had secured tickets of admission were there out of sympathy to one who was always a kind friend to the poor of Australia. The tables were lavishly decorated, and everyone dined wisely and well for the most part. Numbers of faces had attended in previous years.

Old men, some of them rapidly cutting short the last laps that lead to the finishing post in life's battle; young men just entering upon the race; and careworn and anxious mothers, attended by their offspring—all these were seated all over the building. While the luncheon was proceeding the whole of the American artists at the Tivoli provided entertainment, which, together with the splendid repast, was thoroughly enjoyed. Nell a Webb, in her quaint style, sang “The Top of the Morning to You;” Taylor and Arnold contributed a humorous ditty, and the Three Keltons gave instrumental selections. Everyone present was handed a ticket in the Sydney Hospital art union, the first prize in which consists of a tour for two round the world and £3OO expenses besides. Before the gathering dispersed, Mr J. Travers, M.L.C., on behalf of Mrs Rickards, expressed pleasure at seeing such a large number present, and stated it was her intention to honour her illustrious husband by making the event a permanent annual affair, whether she resided in Sydney or not. The crowd showed its great appreciation by giving three loud cheers. As the visitors left the hall there

were several touching incidents of thanks and appreciation. One old lady, in shaking hands with Mrs Rickards, remarked, “I had to bow my head in coming in. I have no right to he here, but my daughter refused me something to eat on Christmas Day.” Mrs. Rickards added kind words —she did more. That day’s proceedings were memorable to her, and the night before she despatched a member of the Tivoli staff all round the city inquiring for those who needed help. In this way Mrs Rickards distributed guineas. The lunchccon cost, about £4OO.