WEE SCOTCH NIGHT IN TOKO.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXVI, Issue 73, 31 July 1913, Page 5

WEE SCOTCH NIGHT IN TOKO.

[prom our own correspondent.]

On Friday the Toko Branch of the Taranaki Provincial Scottish Society held the first annual concert and dance in the Coronation Hall, and it proved a great success, although the weather did not look promising, being cold and -showery. In spite of this crowd's of people came from all parts of the district, beating all previous records. The Hall was packed to its utmost, and the stage was beautifully decorated with flags and heather. The concert Was considered the best.ever held in Toko. The curtain was taised “Shortly after 8 o’clock, and on the stage marched a number of fine strapping Scotchmen' in kilts, headed by the bagpipes. Mr T. A. Lees, president of the Toko branch, said lie was very pleased to see such a big gathering, and ho felt sure that they would all enjoy themselves. He called on Mr \V. L. Kennedy, chief of the Society, to take the chair for the evening. Chief Kennedy, in the course of ins remarks, said it gave him much pleasure to lie present, Ho had never seen anything that the Toko people took in hand that was not a success. “We are are all Scotchmen here o-night,” he continued, “wherever you see heather, that means Bonnie Scotland, and wherever you go you meet Scotchmen and see the Lion Flag.” A telegram of apology was read from Mr J. B. Hine, M.P., regretting his unavoidable absence, and wishing the Society every success; also one from Mr F. Dunlop. The first item on the programme was a bappipe selection by Messrs McGowan and Thompson. Song, Mr Simpson, “LongbLive the King”; song, Mrs Wilks, “Coming thro’ the Eve,” encored. Mr Douglas, “March of the Cameron Men,” Song, Mrs Hutcheon “Mary of Argyle,” encored. Step dance, Mr Wade. Song, Mr Wilkie “Mr Jock McKie,” encored. Song, Miss Maunsell “The Old Scotch S v angs.” Recitation, Mr Smith “Tam o’ Shanter March.” Song Miss Fieldes “I Canna Leave the Old Folk Noo,” encored. Banjo selection, Mr Simpson. Song, Mrs Wilks “On the Bonnie,

Bonnie. Banks of Loch Lomond.” Song Mrs Hutcheon “Robin Adair.” Step dance, Mr Wade. Song, Mr Wilkie “What did I Do,” encored. The Hall was then cleared, and the dance started with the grand march, in which over one hundred couples took part. The floor was in perfect order. The music was supplied by Mrs Bianchi (piano), Mr Kelly (cornet), and Mr W. Walsh (violin). Extras were kindly played by Miss Cumherworth, Mr T. Walsh, and Mr Bredow. During the evening Messrs McGowan and Thompson played several bagpipe selections, and Mr Wilkie gave a comic all of which were much appreciated. Messrs Geo. Morrison and Gernhoefcr carried out the duties of M.C.’s.

A very tasty supper was provided by the ladies, including Scotch haggis, and great credit is due to the ladies for the attention given at the tables. The function was brought to a close at 3 .o’clock with the last waltz, “For I must go Home To-night.”