WAIOKONGOMAI DEBATING SOCITETY

Te Aroha News, Volume I, Issue 51, 24 May 1884, Page 7

WAIOKONGOMAI DEBATING SOCITETY

On Saturday evening, 10th inst., a deb.ite took place uiuler tuo auspices of the above society as to whether u Oliver Cromwell is worthy of admi'ation." A large number of persons attended to listen to the debale, and great interest was manifested in the various speeches. Mr Purdio undertook to argue in the ariirmative, witli Mr >Steel lms liis coadjutor. Mr Purdie opened the debate in a lengthy speech. He dealt with the life of Cromwell as a whole, and argued from his acts that the " Great Oliver" deserves all ptaise. lie was followed by Mr Lovely who led the opposition, and endeavoured to prove Cromwell an unwoithy character. Mr Hteel criticised the previous speaker's remarks, after which Mr Crown argued in opposition. Mr Hawkins then delivered an eloquent speech, in which he tried to controvert the aigumeuts adduced by the tirst speaker. Mr Purdie, as leader in the debate next exercised his right of reply, and dealt with tiie arguments of the opposition speakers. Upon a division being taken it was found thai those who iiad vindicated the character of Cromwell had gained tne victory by a majority of turee votes. It was resolveu th.il the evening of the ?Au\ hist- should be devoted to readings and recitations by tin members, and that at tne next meeting tne subject, •' Is the mriitai capacity of the sexes equal," shouM be de» a ted*