STRATFORD DAY BY DAY.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LII, Issue 351, 31 March 1910, Page 8

STRATFORD DAY BY DAY.

(From Our Resident Correspondent.) / 1 Stratford, Wednesday. ' The gale which appears to have been felt in many of New Zealand was not experienced here, though to-day it has been decidedly boisterous. Heavy rain fell yesterday, over two inches being recorded. < The failure of the boat to connect with the train to-day proved inconvenient to several institutions whose officials have been holiday - making north. One of the banks had to resort to breaking-open tactics to secure certain papers safely locked away, the keys being with the absent clerk, 'which were essential for the day's business. Local sportsmen are wondering if this is to be an open season, and yesterday Mr. W. P. Kirkwood telegraphed to the Minister for a definite statement. The customary reply that "the matter is being considered" was received. There is no intention in Stratford to celebrate Anniversary Day. The banks are closing, but doubtless the balance will interfere with any holiday arrangements made by the staffs. 'A movement emanating from the Stratford Oddfellows' Lodge is on foot to provide a maternity ward at the local hospital. To the end of raising the necessary funds it is suggested that a Hospital Ball he held on 24th May, and a Hospital Saturday at some convenient date. The object is one which shonld Teceive the hearty support and co-assistance of town and country alike. The time has gone by when hospitals are looked down on, and the recognition of the good work done 'and the benefits derived by the suffering is general. In a district scattered over many miles of country such as this a maternity ward [ may be said to be a necessity, and the j funds required, no very large amount. should be raised without ans great difficulty.