THE FIRE BRIGADE.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LI, Issue 270, 7 November 1908, Page 2

THE FIRE BRIGADE.

On Monday nigm, the lung's Birthday, the annual appeal ot the i'lre Brigade, through Mrs. jJockrill and Her committee of ladies, will be made to tile public of tiie district lor linancuil assistance. For years past the Fire Brigade ball lias been tiie recognised Uth of November function, and, apart from the pleasure deri'.ed from attending aa

attractive and popular iuuouon, many of own townsfolk have made this their opportunity of contributing to the support of one of our most useful lusui.utious. The self-sacrifice of our volunteer firemen can hardly be over-esti-mated, and the public would do welt to show their appreciation in substantial fashion. Tiie brigade is recognised to be one of the finest ill the Dominion, thoroughly disciplined, well equipped, and always ready to rouse themselves to their highly dangerous duty at the sound of tiie alarm lroni the tower. A tribute to the excellent service which the town receives from the brigade is found in the very small number of fires which occur ami in the prompt extinction of those for which the lbc-l lighters are called out. Only a few days ago a lire occurred right in the business portion of the town, and a less business-like brigade would hardly

have toped with the outbreak in- tune, to save the neighboring block. The New Plymouth Volunteer .fire Brigade certainly has a just claim upon the people for a little financial assistance, and the grand annual plain anil fancy dress ball presents an excellent opportunity for a display ot appreciation. The cash contribution in this case purchases mot only protection from lire but a night's enjoyment. The arrangements for the baa'are very complete. The Right Hon. . the Premier, Sir Joseph Ward/ and! '. possibly Lady Ward, will be present, \ and Sir Joseph will probably assist his '■■ Worship the Mayor in making the pub- \ lie presentation of an illuminated ad- ; ' ii.T.-.s and a purse of sovereigns*to Mr. ! .'■ i'thur L. Humphries in recognition of ':\ i is many services rendered for the pub- ' J iic weal.