STRATFORD.

Taranaki Daily News, 16 March 1918, Page 3

STRATFORD.

(From Our Own Correspondent) fAll communications, letters, e:c, left with Mr. 11. J. Hopkins, bookseller, will receive prompt utrtntiou] B.M. COURT. Stratford, Maxell 15.

The fortnightly sitting of the S.M. Court was held this afternoon before Mr. W. R. tlaseldcn, S.M. , Thomas Kirkwood was charged that he did serve Athol 11. Meredith and F. K. Williams, two youths under 20, with liquor on January 20. Mr. Coleman represented Kirkwood and Sergeant Dale eonduetcd the prosecution. A. H. Meredith, farmer, Hniron. stated that he was 174 years of age, and came to Stratford, with Williams, on January 26, arriving at 1.15 p.m. by the W'hangamomona train. Went across to the County Hotel, but could not recognise any man in the court as the man who had served him with the one drink ("shandygaff") he had there. F. E. Williams, 20 years, county employee, Tututawa, corroborated Meredith's evidence. Constable' Robertson stated' that the defendant, when taxed with the offence, made no denial.

T. Kirkwood, defendant, said he had no recollection of serving either of the two previous witnesses. He had a personal supervision over the bar, but at times received assistance from a barman who resembled him somewhat, but was not so good looking. (Silence in the court.) Sergeant: "No joking here. This is a court of justice." Was out of the bar at times for lunch. W. P. Kirkwood, licensee of the hotel, was charged similarly to T. Kirkwood. Mr. Coleman stated that defendant, who pleaded not guilty, did not serve in the bi.r. The youths, the cause of the trouble, were not put in the box again. The S.M., however, requested both to put on their hats and stand before him. They did so, and the magistrate said the actions hinged on "apparently," and to him they were apparently '-0 years of age, and he would dismiss both actions. He added that, seeing Meredith was only 171 years, he should be "spanked" for his conduct. It was unfortunate that a man of Mr. Kirkwood's character should have been required to stand bucli a charge. Charges arising out of the same visit of the two youths were \also preferred against T. Sullivan, F. Whittle and T. Wilson. Sergeant Dale said he would prefer an adjournment of those cases, but Mr. Fitzherbcrt, appearing for Sullivan, said he objected to any. further remands with a charge like this hanging over his head. The magistrate dismissed both informations.

STANLEY ROAD PICNIC. Wea| weather prevailed for the picnic hcid on Mr. W. V. .Hosking's paddock yesterday. There were plenty of races for the children, who were well provided for in prizes, whilst the refreshments by the ladies were also a popular item on the afternoon's programme. In the evening a concert was held, tlie schoolroom being crowded. The first portion was reserved to the scholars, who contributed recitations, pianoforte selections, etc., in very acceptable manner. Maida Adams and Jack Hamilton contributed recitations, and Lorna Forbes a pianoforte solo. The second half was made up witli adult items. Frank Ranford had a night out with his funiosities, while the redoubtable J. S. Rowe also captivated the audience v/ith his quaint songs and stories. Torn Ranford was heard to great advantage in "I Fear No Foe," and W. Harris scored a great success in "The Sunshine .of Your Smile." Mr. W. Orr was graceful in a Highland dunce, which had to be repeated. Miss Rowe, who has an enviable reputation as an elocutionist, was heard to great advantage in both her items, "Goblins Will Get You" and "Chestnuts." Miss D. Phillips, also a popular vocalist, was recalled for her song, "Good Bye." The dance music was supplied by Miss Anderson and thoroughly enjoyed by all who remained behind after the concert. Mr. Wellington thanked the visiting performers for their assistance.

IRISH NATIONAL SOCIAL. An energetic committee, tho best available talent, good floor, good music and popular prices were a combination of circumstances that ensured the success of the above* social held in the Town Hall last evening. Mr. T. A. Lonergiui had the stage managership, and made the hall look its best, tho arrangements being veHy elaborate. Vocal items were contributed by airs. Massey, Mrs. McLaren, Miss Milner, Miss Alice Sullivan, Misses Sheehan and Sullivan (duet). Probably the most acceptable item was that by six winsome lassies (three in male attire), who gave some neat stepping and a ehoni3 to "Mother Machree." An Irish entertainment without a jig would never do, and Mr. J. Norris, Tututawa, put plenty of vim into his footwork that secured a well-merited recall. Later on, with Mr. G. Wilson, the pair footed an Irish reel, with the necessary abandon that surprised and delighted the audience. Miss Moon and Mr. C. H. Fox were the accompanists, while Mrs. Rianchi's orchestra played for tlie dance.

GENERAL. An accident of a rather serious character occurred at Midhirst yesterday. Mr E. Jackson, after taking a man named Kemp down the Denbigh Road, struck trouble when starting the return journey. They were travelling by car, and, while turning round, the steering gear developed faults, and before the car could be controlled again, went over a bank Jen feet high. Jackson fortunately fell clear, but Kemp was pinned across the chest by the car. Jackson rendered what assistance ho" could until help waa obtained and Kemp removed from his dangerous position. The latter was taken to the Stratford Hospital and attended to by Dr. Fergusson. Kemp's limbs are too much swollen to ascertain the true nature of hia injuries. Ono of our carriers, Mr. J. Sheehan, also received injuries yesterday that necessitated him laying up for repairs. He had his cart at the station, and while working the horse to the railway platform, was thrown out of the cart on to his head, the sharp metal inflicting n nasty scalp wound. The accident was not observed, Mr. Sheehan being found lying on the road, bleeding profusely, lie was picked up, taken to the hospital for treatment, and then removed to his home, where he is now steadily improving. There was a good attendance of members at the Gun Club meeting here yesterday afternoon. Prior to commencing hostilities, the president (11. Harrison) was presented with a gold medal, won at the previous competition. The 10bird match fell to Mr. Preo, Inglewood, who scored the maximum number of kills. Four tied for second honors. Messrs Nelson and Green were successful in the clay pigeon matches. Shooting was continued throughout the day. Mr. H. Camphhoii -fliHeiUiv carried out tin duties of

umpire. Mr. C. L. Grant (secretary) acting in his usual expeditious manner. Easter is close at hand, and one wonders what to get for suitable gifts. There is no need to worry. You can present your soldier with the LVnn haircutter, the young lady with a bangle or wristlet watch, the maid with a book, and the student with a fountain pen. The fretful child will fret no more with a toy, and tired mother will he pleased with some of tlie Doulton ware, and father will forget to growl if you purchase tobacco, pipes, or cigars from C. E, •Tames, the man for the multitude.*