STRATFORD.

Taranaki Daily News, 15 June 1918, Page 3

STRATFORD.

(Prom Our Own Correspondent.) [All communications, letters, etc., left with Sir H. J. Hopkins, bookseller, will receive prompt attention.] Stratford, June 14. TEMPERANCE ADDRESSES. The weather conditions were far from being the beat for the meeting of those interested in temperance reform at the Town Hall last night. Prior to opening the meeting, the lvapongu Band played a few selections outside the building, which held a very good attendance of temperance workers and otheirs. Mr. J. Masters, Deputy-Mayor, presided, and in a short, concise introduction of Captain W. Hawkins, the principal speaker, said that the gathering was at the invitation of the Women's Christian Temperanco Union, who were desirous of getting puiblic opinion to urge upon the Xational Government the desirability of a referendum on the liquor question. Captain Hawkins met with a very flattering reception. He said they were on the eve -of a campaign to force the Government to a referendum on the subject as to whether the liquor traffic was to continue or not. He quoted the report of a Commission set up in England to go into the matter—those who were neither prohibitionists nor temperance men. He touched on the methods adopted by the liquor party who, on the eve of an election, were often wide of the mark of truth in their statements, which were published without any chance of a reply- Throughout the address, Captain Hawkins' remarks were punctuated by hearty applause, at the conclusion being accorded an extra round. On the motion of the Revs. Madill and Tinsley, the following resolution was carried:—"That this meeting call* upon the National Government tq end the present undemocratic regime and give the people the opportunity of deciding the question within six months bv vote."

In acknowledging the vote. Captain Hawkins said lie hoped the opportunity would be his later on to agan address them on further liquor reforms. A POPULAR FARMER. After spending many years in this district (Makahu) and assisting in anything that was for the advancement of the place, it is not surprising that general regret was expressed at the departure for Hawke's Bay o£ Mr. Mrs, and Miss S. Brewer. The county folks have shown appreciation of their work ai settlers and friends, and last evening the Stratford friends of Mr. Brewer entertained him in 'town- There was an excellent attendance of those who had; known their guest for many years. Mr. J. Hignett occupied the chair, whilst Mr J H. Thompson presided at the piano. The evening passed all too quickly in music, song, and story. Several eulogistic speeches were made of the work accomplished by the Brewer family in patriotic and other directions. Stratford recognised those efforts, and, on tichalf of the subscribers, Mr. Hignett handed Mr. Brewer a set of cntlerv and two dozen dessert and table knives (stainless and dustless), and trusted that good health and fortune would be with Mr. Brewer and his family in their new homo In acknowledging receipt, Mr. Brewer said he appreciated the generous remarks made that evening, and was glad to know that any little effort by Mrs. and Miss Brewer and himself had been appreciated. They would ever remember with pride their long association in th& Stratford district, and trusted that their friends of this and neighboring towns would continue to go on and prosper. Mrs. J. Petrie has control of the Patriotic Mart and Mesdames Boon and Good the tea rooms to-morrow (Saturday). Any contributions of produce, sweets, vegetables, etc., will be very welcome. A social was held at iTgiere Hall on Thursday evening, the attendance of the public being very good. Very acceptable vocal items were contributed by Mrs> Massey, Miss Milner, Miss Vera Rowe, and Mr. J. S. Rowe and Mr. S. James? Mrs. Bianchi (piano) and Messrs S. Parker (cornet) and W. Walsh (violin) supplied the music, which was enjoyed by allThe eyes of the world are centred on the great German offensive, but the eyes of the thrifty wife are focussed on the good goods at small prices being offered by Mr. CE. .Tames. His premises are replete with the useful and ornamental. 0! old ware, silverware, eopperware, and crockeryware are to be found on the shelves and in packages. Mr. Man is also catered for, and he can smoke the fragrant weed, carry a walking-stick, and in his pocket choice reading matter, all procured at lowest prices from C. E. James.