ELTHAM.

Taranaki Daily News, 6 September 1917, Page 3

ELTHAM.

(From 'Our Own Correspondent). September 5. unit the promoters claim to be the match of the season will be decided here tins week, when * Rugby fifteen from Jlawrra l, no up awinst some veterans of Lllhara. The latter have had a couple of games, and ara in good trim—for about twenty minutes. Still, the object of the meeting is to raise funds for patriotic purposes primarily, and incidentally to revive memories that some time in the last centurv—or 'was it /ater?—football flourished in Taranaki. Considerable interest is being taken in the venture, and many shillings should be paid as "toll" to see the exhibition The writer was very sorry to hear that ''Dad" Norris had heard the "last ,post." He was a. wonderful old man. and lof genial disposition. His occupation |,was that of a gardener, and he made a bravo show with the hoe and rake. At anyrate his vegetable patch was a model of neatness, and always had something ready to cut. A quiet, inoffensive man he was, who used his hoe as a walking stick. There are many who will miss ('lis familiar figure. The value of the training imparted to the lads on the training ship Amokura has been frequently demonstrated. Young George Commerer, after a cotfple ol years on board, has qualified for a position on the Union liner Wimmera, and lis now drawing a salary, with prospects ahead, that contrasts strongly with the days of the "white wings," when it was jiniversally understood that a sailor's life was that of a dog, and one only to be adopted as a last resource. More farewells! On Monday evening the Hibernians farewelled Rifleman Frank O'Keefe, the evening taking the form of a social. Mr. Foster presided at the piano, and Messrs H. March ant and J. Halpin officiated as M.C.'s. The music was Al, and so was the floor. Previous to dancing, cards were played, the successful lady being Mrs. Cave, ienr.. whilst the lady who scored the lea.st was Mrs. Ibbotsen. The gent.'s prize went to Mr. H. Marehant, whilst Mr. F. Quin showed his lack of practise by bringing up the rear. The prinvipal business nvas the presentation of a wristlet watch, and the farewell ppeech, which was artistically handled by Rev. Father Arkwright. Our latest soldier of the King suitably acknowledged the gift and kind expressions. The Eltham Oddfellows are creating a fair amount of interest by the energy they impart into their meetings. Occasionally they visit Stratford', and on Monday journeyed to Kaponga. The visitors were welcomed by P.P.G.M. Bro. Melville and P.G. Bro." Walker, their greetings being responded to by P.G. .Bro. Hodgen and W. Clarry. Three member? were initiated, and generally a verv pleasant evening was spent. Before retiring, the veteran P.G. Bro. C. Harrison returned thanks for the hospitality extended that evening.