STRATFORD.

Taranaki Daily News, 23 June 1917, Page 3

STRATFORD.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) [All communications, letters, etc., left with Mr. H. J. Hopkins, bookseller, will iceeive prompt attention.] FAREWELL AT STRATHMORE. . Stratford, June 22. For some time past the settlers of Makahu and Stratlimore liave been eagerly anticipating a social that was tendered last evening in honor of Mr. Alan Walker, who has been manager to ■Mr. S. Brewer for sometime, and been •engaged by his employer for many years. Mr. Walker is shortly leaving for camp, and the popularity of the soldier and his .employers was evidenced by the crowded hall, seating accommodation being at a premium. A strong contingent of Stratfordites made the journey, 28 miles or so, and thoroughly enjoyed the outing and hospitality, the early part of the evening took the form of a concert, the first portion being devoted to minstrels. Messrs J. Rowe (bones), S. J. Ward (tambo) and T. Wilson (interlocutor) being quick and keen in their efforts to keep things moving. Encores were numerous. The music was supplied by Messrs C. H. Fox (piano) and R. Cottier (violin). After the opening chorus "Rule Britannia," Mr. Peters contributed "Sons of New Zealand"; Miss Greenhalgh followed with "Sammy," a song that had local application, and was also recalled. Mr. Sid Ward crowded plenty of action into his item "Why do you keep laughing at Me," and had to repeat same. Mr. Tom Wilson gave "When the boy sayn will you, and the girl says yes," and Mrs. Carter contributed "Miss Gibbs." Stratford's comedian then made the walls shake with laughter in "Susy! Don't you hear ine callin'"; a finale, in which topical choruses were introduced, concluded the first portion. In the second half Miss Greenhalgh sang "La Belle Parisienne"; Mrs. Carter f'Good-bye Virginia''; Mr. Peters "Off to Philadelphia"; Mr. A. J. Hill recited ."The Absent-Minded Beggar" and netted £2 10s. Mr. Speight also contributed an appreciated item. Mr. J. King sang "Somewhere a Voice is Calling," whilst Mr. J. Lister contributed two solos, "Comrades Side by Side" and "Friend of Mine," both items being well received. J3y request Mr. Rowe contributed "Uncle Joe" to the delight of old and young. Mr. Ward brought the entertainment to a close with "Asleep in the Deep," the .diorus by the company. During the evening Mr. Rowe, on behalf of the Stratford "sports" and friends, made presentations to Mrs. Brewer, consisting of a foot warmer and cake dish and forks. On behalf of the visitors lie expressed appreciation of the hospitality meted out to them at Makahu. Mr. Brewer suitably acknowledged the gifts and kind remarks. . Mr. Athol Meredith thanked the visitors for /the pleasant evening afforded them, and also Mr. Newton King for placing two cars at the disposal of performers. He also expressed the hope that Mr. Walker, after serving his country, would return to Makahu and take up his duties again. The remainder of the evening and early morning was spent in dancing, all present leaving with pleasant recollections of an enjoyable night.

FAREWELL AT TOKO. There was an excellent attendance of Toko settlers and visitors at the hall last evening, when a, farewell social was tendered Privates T. Goldup, J. Fincham and J. E. Stanford. Mr. W. H. Were acted as spokesman, and in presenting each of the departing guests with wristlet watches, expressed the sincere wish of all' for their safe return. In the course of his remarks Mr. Were stated that Private Goldup's brother had been at the front for a long time, being one of the main body, whilst Private Fincham's brother was a member of the 6th contingent. The last-mentioned was also the recipient of a souvenir from the Oddfellows' Lodge. Mr. M. Gernhoefer, P.G., made the presentation. Excellent music was provided by Mrs. Bianchi, WELCOME AND FAREWELL. The Midhirst settlers and others filled the local hall to the doors when a welcome home was tendered to Private A. Blanchard, and Privates Uhlenberg, Stevens, Kirkwood were farewelled. Mr. W. Mountford, as chairman, presented Private A. Blanchard with an illuminated address. After expressing pleasure at seeing Private Blanchard back in their midst, he also took occasion to farewell the soldiers mentioned, and hoped that in due course they, also, would return sound in health and limb to Midhirßt. On behalf of the Midhirst public he presented each Boldicr with a smoker's outfit.

A fine programme of vocal and instrumental items was rendered by Mrs. C. Massev, Mrs. Macleod, Mr. Alan Betts, Mr. W. Enwright, Mr. J. W. Mail, Miss E. Huse, Mrs. J. Tapp, and Mr. H. W. Jameß.

GENERAL. The patriotic mart "and tea rooms on Saturday will be controlled by the lady members of St. Andrew's tluild, and Mesdames H. Betts, G. Smart and Petrie will be pleased to receive donations of confectionery, produce, etc., during the morning, AH interested: are reminded that a lecture on the "Meat Industry" will be del|vered on Saturday at Mr. N. King's bazaar at 1.30 p.m. The local Territorials were badly defeated by the Cadets in a football match played yesterday, the Cadets winning by 329 points to nil. . Following the lines of New Plymouth and other places, a movement has been set goin;; to start a Second Division League in Stratford. A preliminary meeting has been held, and Mr. D. J. Malone .elected chairman and Mr. P. Skogluiul lion, secretary. A further meeting will be held shortly, and efforts will be made to enrol men in the Second Division as members.

Mr. C. E. James' sale is now in full swing, and the public are taking advantage of the great values offering to purchase largely. The sa'le will last another nine days, but those who intend to share in the big bargains offering should not hesitate to make their purchases now; to-morrow may be too late.*