DISTRICT NEWS

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LII, Issue 60, 5 April 1909, Page 4

DISTRICT NEWS

STRATFORD. (From Our Own Correspondent.) The chief topic of the day is what was the power behind the throne that made the Hon. J.G.W. give that Dreadnought. It is something to be a Prime Minister and juggle with millions, hut 1 believe H, was given on behalf of the Dominion, and 1 would suggest that she be named "Joseph," a iia'iuc famous in ancient Egypt, also in other places. A figurehead of our Premier on the bow and one on the stern of Mr. Massey would be appropriate as showing the positions held by each gentleman. I'ou might forward these suggestions to the Admiralty for their favorable consideration. {Where is KohuratahU 1 notice a scries of telegrams have been passing between some budding politicians on the financial relations existing between the Whanga. and Stratford County Councils, and the outcome is that Whanga. has put on its war-paint, buried the calumet, dug up the hatchet, and io looking for scalps. It is rumored that the telegraph oilices will be open all night, so that the morning papers will be able to let their readers know the issue of the tongue struggle. 1 anticipate the country will survive the shock.

A visitor to New Plymouth on Anniversary, Day informs me it was a treat to see the line physical condition the old settlers showed. We hear very little about the forthcoming mayoral election. The present Mayor will not doubt he returned unopposed, as it is an unwritten law they should serve two terms. Quite a number of the old councillors do not intend to seek re-election. Having arrived at years of discretion they have found it is poor work endeavoring to satisfy a fickle public. Enormous quantities of railroad-mak-ing gear are arriving and to arrive here for the next week or two from the Main Trunk. Special trains are practically an vvery-«lay occurrence to the railhead.

We are having weather of variegated sorts just now, but Easter holiday-mak-ers are looking forward to brighter things.

WAITARA. A very pleasant evening of progressive uuchro and dancing was spent on Wednesday evening at the Foresters' Hall by the members of the Bowling Club and their friends. The first prize for euchre went to Mr. R. J. White, and Mrs George 'NosWorthy was the winner of the lady's prize. Dancing was kept up until a very late hour. Much credit is due to the ladies who so successfully organised and carried out the very, enjoyable social gathering. Our worthy Mayor, Mr. Walter Jenkins, who decided some time ago not to stand\(or the -Mayoral seat this election, hr.fi now re-considered his decision, at the request of many townspeople, and is willing to Ik* nominated once more. The probable councillors will lie: Messrs (i. V. Tate. W. iiirdling, Wilkes, Ratteubnry and Dugdale. The present rough weather is delaying the loading of the Buteshire in the roadstead. This boat will take away one of the largest cargoes froin'this port —in all about 20 barges.

Last .Sunday the Methodist Church held their annual harvest thanksgiving services, which were well attended. Flowers, fruit and vegetables were in plenty. Ft was intended to hold a Dutch auction of the gifts on Monday evening, but, owing to the stormy weather, the gathering was postponed until the following evening, when the church members rolled up, and a very pleasant evenin" was spent in the schoolroom. 3/4/09.