SOUTH TARANAKI.

Taranaki Daily News, 24 October 1916, Page 3

SOUTH TARANAKI.

I FAREWELL TO RECRUITS,* (From a Correspondent). The Nineteenths being on their final leave, and the fine patriotic spirit of the manhood of this- district in offering their services to country being greatly appreciated, several enjoyable evenings have been passed in their hondr before they departed from their homes tp leave for the front. At Te Roti a farewell social was tendered to Private C. Kelly in the local hall, there being a large attendance, many friends coming from all parts of Ta ran tiki to show t'he esteem in which the guest was held. Mr. W Cleaver (chairman of the. Patriotic Committee) presented Private Kelly with a purse of sovereigns on behalf of Te Roti friends, wishing him God-speed and a safe return. Mr. GormS'ly, on behalf of Ilawera friends, presented Private Kelly 'with a shield, which 'he hoped would serve him in good stead in days to come. Private Kelly said he would endeavor to acquit himself as well as those who had preceded him. The singing of "Auld Lang Syne" and hearty foi ihe departing soldier brought a. most enjoyable evening to a close. Privates Gallagher, Clegg and Lundy were also present. The same evening, at the Farmers' Union social at Kaponga, Private J. Hanimcrsley was presented with a wristlet watch by the Kaponga Patriotic Committee, his many friends wishing him good lnel; and a safe return. Private Hi'.mmeraly suitably replied. At Auroa on Thursday night a large crowd assembled at the 'hall to farewell Privates J. Clegg ar.d tPurdon. Privates Mic-rs, Hall and Ilaig were also visitors. isr. Dunn delivered a line patriotic speech to the young recruits and presented Private; Clegg and Purdon with a safety razor each from their friends, and a Testament from the Auroa Bible Class. The -eeipients thanked one and all for kind wishes and gifts. On Saturday evening many personal friends of Private 13. Johnston assembled at Xorinan'by Town Hall to make a presentation and to show the great respect in '\vhicli lit was held in. the district. On behalf of those present, Mr. S. Moore presented Private Johnston with a wristlet watch, a pip. and tobacco, also referring to the heroic stand made 'by the guest's father (Mr. Coslett .mhnston) many years ago at Turuturu Mokai. Private Johnston expressed his thanks for the presents ami also for the kind remarks regarding his father, whose example he would endeavor to follow.