A POLITICAL CHALLENGE.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LIV, Issue 241, 11 April 1912, Page 3

A POLITICAL CHALLENGE.

THE GAUNTLET TO BE LIFTED. When in Stratford the other night the Hon. G. Laurenson said he would speak here in a few weeks' times-, and would take seriatim the charges made by the Opposition against the Government, and deny them. He further challenged Mr. Hine, or any other member of the Opposition, to controvert any statement he may make. It is already -stated that air. F. M. iB. Fisher will be put up to reply to the Minister. Local politicians are evidently in for some excitement. THE MAYORALTY. Mr. R. McK. Morison, asked his intentions as to the Mayoralty, said to me: "I expect I'll be there." Further, I gather that t'here is a possibility of his 'addressing the ratepayers on Friday night. Mr. W. P. Kirkwood is generally expected to oppose him.

THE PICTURES One of the most remarkable books written is "She," and one of the finest photo dramas ever sent to this country is "She." It abounds in marvellous effects, and is calculated 'to provide tense enjoyment and interest all the time the spool is being operated. Jtlider Haggard's fame depends much on "She," and the marvellous drama should draw a big crowd to His Majesty's Theatre on Thursday night. The film'is 3000 feet in length. The star is supported by a further .fine selection of films, many of which are of exceptional merit. Incidental music will be supplied .by the Elite Orchestra, under Herr C. Overbye's direction BOWLERS' DISAPPOINTMENT.

Stratford .bowlers turned Up in goodly numbers to-day to see the New Plymouth and Hawera clubs play the final Banner championship series. The caretaker was adjured to give the green extra attention. Lady supporters were there in force, and had a "ripping" afternoon tea ready. But the combatants came not. A telephone message to Hawera elicited the fact that the game was to bo played on some other day, New Plymouth having intim'aited its inability to get a teaip away to-day. It is rather surprising that the courtesy of informing the Stratford Qui) of the altered arrangements was neglected. ißut there were some visitors. The Hon, G. W. Russell came along, accompanied by Dr. T. A. Valintine, Inspector-General of Hospitals, Mr. T. H. Penn, secretary of the local hospital board, Mr. Nolan, of the Hawera Club, and others. Mr. R. McK. Morison, the president, welcomed the visitors, the Minister replying. Among other things he said he reckoned bowling was a very good game for a politician, because in both bowling and politics it was necessary, he was told, to "lie" well and accurately.

THE STRATFORD A. & P. ASSOCIATION. POSTPONED GYMKHANA. Tlie executive have decided to reopen the' entry lists in all events for the Gymkhana, postponed to Thursday week, April 18. All information in connection with making entries may be had by communicating with the secretary or calling at the Association's office. Provision will be made to either reprint the programme of .events or have the extra entries printed on slips which will be given to those who purchased programmes. In the event of the extra entries being extensive the programme will be re-printed, to replace those already sold. However, due notice will be given, whichever course is decided upon. Although it was found necessary to postpone the fixture, the public can rest assured that the programme will not suffer through being postponed, but will, on th 6 contrary, be made more attractive by added entries. All the arrangements for the convenience and comfort of the public that were in hand for Easter Monday will be carried out on Thursday week in all details. The interim will give the orchestra opportunity to further practice the selected music for the occasion. Luncheon and afternoon tea will, be served on the grounds, and fruit and

lolly stalls will cater to tastes in this direction. In the menagerie race intending entrants are asked to make their entries with the secretary as early as possible, while entries will also be taken up to time of starting. The course of asking for entries iu this race to be made

now is taken "by the executive so that some idea may be had of animals likely to start. It is also desired that entries in the motor-driving event should also be made with the secretary as early as convenient. Granted a fine day, there is little doubt that the Gymkhana will 'be a great success, and afford pleasure to a large number of .people. GENERAL NEWS The A. & P. executive met last night. It was decided to ask members and farmers to form a party to visit the Momohaki State Farm on Monday next. The names of those intending to go should be sent in td the secretary of the Association.

Fresh entries are to be received up till next Tuesday for the postponed gymkhana. The Singer sewing machine, first prize in a guessing competition, for which three men tied, will be sold by auction at the gymkhana.

The new school building will be opened on Thursday evening by the Hon. J. A. Hanan, Minister of Education. There will he a big conversazione, which will be a fitting wind-up to the day's sports on the showgrounds.

Mrs. G. Sangster, convener of the ladies' committee in charge of the arrangements for the Scotch social on May 24, desires that all Scotch ladies who wish to assist will meet her at Messrs. C. and E. Jackson's office on Friday afternoon next, at 3 o'clock.

Mr. H. T. Tw-iss, Crown lands ranger, is suffering from typhoid fever, probably contracted whilst travelling about the backbloeks.