PERSONAL.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXVIV, Issue 29, 10 January 1916, Page 6

PERSONAL.

Messrs C. S. Williams and F. Kane, of Newton King's clerical staff, who left- for camp by the mail tram this morning," were each presented with a. wristlet watch by Mr H. E. Abraham, the manager, on behalf of their employees on Saturday afternoon. Mr Abraham referred to (he men's good qualities, am] wished them good luck, God speed, and a safe return.. The recipients suitably responded.

Very general regret wiljj be felt in Stratford at the news of the death of Mr J. F, Watson, who tor borne years was in business as jewelW and watchmaker in this town. Mr Watson sold out of business on account of ill-health, and has been travelling in the Dominion for some time. He was a prominent member of the Ma?onic fraternity and a steward of the Stratford Racing Club, and was much respected by all who knew him. His demise occurred in Auckland where he has resided lately. The body is being removed to New Plymouth, where the interment will take place on Wednesday.

Mr C. Russ. who was among the recruits who left for camp th ; s morning, has for six years past occupied the position of secretary to the Methodist Sunday School, and is known as a prominent and popular worker in church circles. At the Sunday School yesterday feeling reference was made to Mr Russ's activities since boyhood in the school, and the Superintendent (Mr E. G. Foster) urged upon the boys to emulate Mr Russ's fine Christian spirit. Other speakers who eulogised their secretary's good qualities were Messrs J. W. Boon, Beaumont, and Martin. It is understood that the congregation of the Church will take the opportunity on Mr Russ's final leave from Camp, to suitably recognise his services.

Mr Robert Peattie, M.A., who died at his residence, Tokomairiro, on Friday week* at the age of 77 years, was the father, of Mr R. M. Peattie, stationmaster, Stratford. The deceased wa s a member of the Educational Institute of Scotland. He came out to New Zealand many years ago, and entered the service of the Otago Education Board. After filling minor positions he became rector of the Oamaru District High School (formerly the Oamaru Grammar, and now the Middle School), holding the position for a number of years. When he ultimately relinquished the teaching, profession (says the Mail) he turned to farming in the Tokomairiro district. While in Oamaru he was an active member of Columba Church, being one of its managers and clerk to the session. For several years Mr Peattie was a member of the Otago Education Board, but declining health caused him to retire. He took a very lively interest in the Volunteer Force, and held x a commission in the cadets. Of the literary turn, he was an occasional contributor to Otago newspapers. Mr Peattie, who was twice married, leaves, a wife and grown-up family.