OFF TO THE FRONT.

Taranaki Daily News, 9 October 1915, Page 3

OFF TO THE FRONT.

wattara's i".*kewell to the Ninth.

Thur. diy evciiiuj's farewell social lo the members- of the Ninth Reinforcements, and those of the Seventh and Eighth on leave, was undoubtedly the best social function held in Wailnra for many a day. 'I u say that the size of the hall was inadequate only feebly expresses the position, for every available part was erowdid, and this once more brings foieibly to notice the necessity of a larger hall. The evening was devoted to dancing and musical items, and was most enjoyable. Songs were rendered b" Mrs. Wilks, Mrs. Nosworthy, Misses Gilbert (2), Messrs Farmer, White, ar.d Sar.dford, whilst Captain Allen was again heaid to advantage in his recitations, he naturally choosing those appropriate' to the occasion. The lady vocalists, in particular, were in good voice, ami, needless to say, had to respond to enr-ces, which were cheerfully given Mrs. Percy Allen and Miss Chong effectively played the accompaniments.

On behalf of the people of the town, His Worsh.p the Mayor (Mr. E. Beckbessinger) handed to each of the nineteen members who ore proceeding to Trentliam a token o* the appreciation of their fellow townsmen, and wished thom God speed and good luck. His Worship at the same time gave good advice to those who were not undertaking their responsibility In enlist'ng, and entreated lliein to do so without further delay. Ho pointed out the tact that the reason of the social was to show that the public recognised the necessary sacrifices that were being made by those who had already deputed to fight for their King and country, and lo those who were just doing so. He n-fcrrcd to one mother who was at th • social, who already had one son wounded, another on his way, one just at hom-.' on final leave, and another going away with the next contingent, and sail! that the lady had something to be proud of There was also one married man, who was a miner in Mokau, who had heard the call for miners, and liaj responded. If, said his Worship, a inanitd man with a family was prepared t.i go, it was surely the duty of nia'.v of the single ones to follow suit, aed he trusted that the appeal would meet with a good response, A bounteous supply of good things was provided for the delectation of thoso prese.it, ar.d although thure were over "0(1 people, so i-iiieli food had been given that a huge quantity was sold afterward". Tile ladies responsible for carrying out the f jiietion had every reason to be satisfied with the fruits of their labors, which were appreciated by all preseut. The singing of "Auld Lang Syne" and the National Anthem brought J most enjoyable evening to a close.