VALEDICTORY.

Taihape Daily Times, 20 March 1919, Page 4

VALEDICTORY.

rev. mr. Mcdonald farewelled

Lust, night the Rev. Mr McDonald and Mrs McDonald, who arc leaving the district, were entertained at a social in the Pres'bytcrian Hall by the members of the congregation and their many friends. The Rev. Mr McCaw, of Mangaweka, and Moderator Tor the district, occupying the chair. The Rev. Mr. McCaw, in his opening remarks referred in glowing terms to the good work done done by the Rev. McDonald and his wife during their stay of two and a half years in Taihape.

Apologies were sent by Mr, L. Arrowsmith and the Rev. W # H. Hocking. The mucisal part ,of the programme was opened with a selection by the Huia O'rchsstra, Mrs Mortlaud sang "The Old-fashioned Town? very pleasingly, and Mr Wham was loudly applauded for his singing of "Annie Laurie. Mrs Galloway's "I'll Sing to You" was a very acceptable number. Miss Cartnell's vocalisation of "The Beautiful Land of Nod" was very nicely done, and she had to respond to an encore, contributing "Coming Home. The programme was brought to a close by Miss Wilson singing "Far, far awa'" very nicely.

Mr McCaw then presented the Rev. Mr McDonald with a cheque from tEe members of the congregation. The chairman called on Mr Fookes, who on behalf of the business men and "sinners"' of the comunity, presented the Rev. Mr McDonald with a cheque, stating that the business people realised that in the Rev. Mr McDonald they were not only losing a minister, but also a valuable citizen, referring in appreciative terms to the good work done by Mr McDonald during the epidemic.

The Rev. Mr Stent and the captain of the Salvation Army also spoke, stating they were sorry Mr McDonald was leaving the district, as they were not only losing a conscientious ibrother worker, but a valued friend. Rev. Mr. McDonald, replying on behalf of himself and wife, said that his position in Taihape had been a most difficult one to fill, as he came here for seven weeks only, and then kept on from time to time until he had filled the position for two and a half years. He expressed great regret at leaving the valued friends he had made during his sojourn in Taihape, and he trusted the Church would prosper under the new minister. Mr. McDonald is leaving on Friday for Pacroa, where he is engaged to preach for a few Sundays. The evening was brought to a close with supper, which the ladies of the congregation kindly supplied.