DISTRICT NEWS.

Taranaki Daily News, 4 July 1918, Page 3

DISTRICT NEWS.

(LOWER MANGOREI. (Prom Our Own Correspondent.) On Monday evening last eveituuted at Puketotara, under the auspices of Mr. and Mrs Fred Healy, one jf the heartiest social gatherings ever held in the locality; the special occasion being a reception and presentation to (Private Jack Bethel, of Lower Mangorei Road who, as volunteer, and on final leave is soon to join our fighting forces at the front. About eighty friends, interested in Private Bethel's career, anr] representing some forty households, rolled up to mark their regard fjr Mr Bethel. A characteristic of the successfulness of the social, was the presence of many Maori associates, who, with accomplished step, and cultivated voice contributed to, as well as shared 'he pleasures of the evening. Mr. J. H. Mageo was assiduous as MC, and duly appointing an interval amidst joyous recreations, .-ailed upon Mr. Benoni White to make the presentation. Mr. I While said that tlw unexpected pleaure had been sprung upon him of bringing into recognition (he King's uniform—the khaki that had, during the last few years don; ?o much for ih vl was still doing for us, and unhappily had yet mveh tu do in the future. Private Bethel now stood before :01 present, the honored guest of the evening; and such a numarous attendance of friends could oniy indicate truly the esteem in which he was held. So ready had been the response 1o the suggestion of presenting a wristlct-'watcn, that out of the fullness of funds a fountain pen was coupled therewith. The watch, having a luminous dial, might help th?. iiwnsr, probably at some time to be engaged on dnrk-nijrlit' i?ntry duty, to count time; whilst the pen, charged iwth ink, would enable him +o send anv odd bit nf paper on its <vay to his friends At home- as fin assurance that they were not forgotten. Miss Magee was then invited to attach the watch to recipient's wrist, and Miss Hanna tendered the pen expresses Inndlv wishes hopeful of God speeding him away to the war, of guiding him whilst away, and of restoring him to us again in due time. Private Bethel feelingly replied with well-chosen remarks, promising gratefully to bear in mind the great kindness shown to him. The usual rousing cheers follov/ed, also "Auld Lang Syne" with full throats and hearts. After refreshments, variety entertainment was again resumed, supported capably and indefatigably by Miss Edith Worn at the piano, with accompaniments to many able soloists, and an especially enjoyed "quick-step'' by a very competent gentleman guest. Mrs Healy, Mrs. Magee and lady friends received a round of thanks for much | thoughtful care exercised for the genej ral comfort and happiness of the goodly and appreciative company.