ELTHAM.

Taranaki Daily News, 17 May 1918, Page 3

ELTHAM.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) May 15. Firemen rolled up in good strength to farewell Comrades V. Philpotts and ]\"orman Reardon, due shortly in camp. Both have been in Eltham for many years, the latter having spent the best part of his life here, whilst Philpotts has been resident long enough to be one of the veterans. Both have tried before this to get to the front, but failed to satisfy the requirements of the Medical Board. Having now succeeded, their comrades farewelled them at the local station. IPhilpotts, like all good firemen, is not averse to a smoke; consequently it was no surprise to learn that his comrades gave him a farewell gift of pipes and tobacco pouch. Reardon also bad to listen to several complimentary speeches, and then found himself in possession of a safety razor outfit. Superintendent H. Nuttall made the presentations, and incidentally referred to the glorious record the brigade had established in recruits, no less than 44 having gone to the front. Unfortunately it was tragic to have to add that nine of their comrades had made the supreme sacrifice. In replying, Philpotts said he was no stranger to the Medical Board, and was pleased to pass at last. He had five brothers at the. front, whilst his wife had four, so the fighting blood seemed to be in the families. Reardon was used to lining up in the football days, so he toed the line and reckoned be must have been something approaching a nuisance to the Medical Board, seeing that he had sent in his visiting card on no less than eight occasions. He had now passed that barrier, and with luck he hoped to go a bit further and present his card (or bayonet, for preference) to Von Hindenburg or any other Hun. The evening, as is usual with firemen, was most convivial, songs, toasts, etc., being honored. Those who assisted in this direction were Messrs A. H. An* drews, A. M. Burrows, C. Betts, V. Philpotts, E. Parrott, and H. Nuttall. It was pleasing to note the Stratford and Kaponga brigades represented. Eltham is showing signs of a revival. A strong hockey club has been formed, and teams of both sexes will soon be on the lookout for games.

On Saturday the Oddfellows are controlling the Patriotic Rooms, and the lady members of the Society are working overtime preparing a list of goods, produce, etc., that should secure solid cash with little trouble.

Our late vicar, Rev. G. W, Dent, is in the district and will fill the local pulpit during his short visit.