STRATFORD.

Taranaki Daily News, 4 July 1918, Page 3

STRATFORD.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) [All communications, letters, etc., left Willi Mr n. 3. Hopkins, bookaoller, will r«ceir< prompt attention.] » _____ MILITARY FUNERAL. Stratford, July 3. With a firing party inarqhiiig with arms reversed, a good muster of the Town Band playing slow music, and a strong body of returned soldiers in uny form on foot, the mortal remains of Private C- Joyce, enshrouded by a Union Jack, made a very deep impression on the spectators as _the cortege passed through Broadway, en route for Kopuatama Cemetery. Thirteen cars and numerous carriages conveyed the numerous, friends from Kohuratahi and Whangamomona to pay their last tribute of respect to the mortal remains of a man who had made himself very popular during his long stay at Whangamoniona. At the graveside, under a leaden sky and a cold south-wester, Bugler W. Power sounded the "Last Post," and the firing party fired three volleys. The Rev. Father Maples officiated.

GENERAL. The Kahouri Hall was all too small to hold the dancers who were present to farewell Private H. Neilson, now on final leave. In presenting the guest of the evening with a wrisjjet watch, Mr. L Hann wished Private Neilson all the good luck possible. Captain W. R- Foley was also present During the evening Mr. G. T. Walters contributed a vocal item, "Go To Sea," in a most acceptable manner, whilst Mr. Fred Foley bewildered and perplexed all present with some unique conjuring work. The music was provided by Mrs. Bianchi, and the duties of M.C. were ably fulfilled by Mr. Chard. At Wliangamomona last night th« usual fortnightly dance was held, and attracted a large attendance of dancers, the function being in aid of the Catholic Church A guessing competition for a cake (91b 15}oz) was divided amonest five, who tied with guesses of 101b. The Stratford pianist, Mr. C. H. For, provided the dance music, which was thoroughly enjoved, whilst excellent extras were contributed 'by Misses M'Guire, Youngman. Hintz, and M"Grath. A vocal item by Miss M'Guire also made a pleasant break m the evening. Mr. A F. Riddell was M.C. The supper provided bv the ladies was excellent in quality and quantity. A reminder is given of the social to be held in the Cardiff schoolroom this evening by the Returned Soldiers' Association. The Stratford branch is making every effort to push its aspirations of a club to a successful conclusion, so those attending these dances can rely on spending a pleasant evening and" also assist a good purpose. Despite the wet weather, the concert and dance held at Bird Road last week proved a great success. The programme included a Japanese operetta, which afforded ample opportunity for the performer: to show their ability. 'Several of the numbers and. choruses were encored, the entertainment proving one of the best g.ven in the schoolhouse. The principal characters were sustained bv Miss Bora Phillips, "Lotus Blossoms"; Mr. George Sanne,, "Lang Toy"; Misses Essie Crowe, Winnie Jolm'son, Hilda Death, and Winnie Garlick, "Japanese Maidens"; Mr. Meuli, "Ogo Bogo"; and Mrs. Phillips, "Mrs. Ogo Bogo " Tuna settlers mustered in strong force last evening to farewell Privates H. W. Hancock and Robson, now on final leave Mr W Hathavftiy, in presenting the soldiers with gold medals (inscribed) and Testaments from she Tuna people, delivered a very interesting address, and urged upon all to do their tftmost to assist in helping the war to a successful issue. Private Hancock said it was no fault of his that he had not been away long before this. He had volunteered and had no chance, but since then his iluck had been better, and he hoped to uphold the bonoi of his comrades who had gone ahead of him Several songs, were contributed by Misses Salter and Kovaleski (2) and Messrs J. Lock and Archer. Ercellent music was provided by Mr. J. Lock, whilst the M.sC (Messrs C. Latham and J. Kovaleski) saw that all dancers were not neglected.

The Rev. C. W. Howard has received the following donations towards the Church Army funds:—J W Grubb £1 Is, Mrs Grubb 10s Od, Miss Middleton £l, "little Child" Is Bd, Mr Rutherford £l, Mr. E. Walter £5 ss; total, £56 Ss. Amount required. £IOO Everyone knows that June was a damp month, but few know how many days it was wet. Mr. T. H. Penn specialises in keeping records, and June has surpassed all records, in that we had 33 damp, dark, depressing days, and the total rainfall in inches was IV/ g . For the six months no less than 57 inches feU, which is easily the Tecord, whilst June's figures eclipse previous efforts for the post 26 years. Private A. E. Belcher was the only soldier leaving Stratford for camp this morning.

The long winter nights are now with VS. Pass the long evenings pleasantly by the fireside with cards and games procurable from Mr. C- E. James. Here you can buy pipes, cigaVettes and cigars for father, many useful lines for mother, the bangles, brooches, etc., are just the thing for the eldest girl. Reading matter for the student and also for those who enjoy light reading, at 0. E. Jame3' Jewellery Warehouse-