STRATFORD.

Taranaki Daily News, 1 May 1919, Page 3

STRATFORD.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) (All communications, letters, etc, left with Mr H. J. Hopkins, bookseller, will receive prompt uteutioa.) * Stratford, April 30. To-day was an ideal day for the municipal elections. Polling was ateady throughout the day, and in the afternoon the streets were crowded with interested spectators, who were busily fighting the battles of the Mayor over again. The principal supporters on either side showed their preference with colors, Mr. J. W. McMillan's men (and women) wearing red, white, and blue, while Mr. J. W. Boon's colors were red and black (Stratford football Club), and if he does not score a goal in this contest he has the satisfaction of having made a good try. Usually contests of this description are conducted in a good-humored, friendly manner, but this afternoon, judging by the grim countenances of all in the vicinity of the polling booth, one would imagine the fate of the Empire was depending upon the result. Cars were in evidence at every street corner, and it was evident that the Returning Officer (Mr. P, Skoglund) would have a heavy poll. Candidates for the council seats were quite lost in the big contest, while one rarely heard the harbor loan proposals discussed. However, it was a good thing the loan vote was taken the same day as the municipal elections, as the polling, otherwise, would certainly not have been so satisfactory. There were several hundred outside the Municipal Chambers when the Town Clerk announced the result, and later en, to the accompaniment of much cheering, both candidates, together with several of the elected councillors, addressed the burgesses, thanking the latter for the support accorded.

There were several hundred people in to-day, but, while the man thoroughfare was lined with eager, chattering squads, it is questionable whether there was much business going—in fact, one tradesman thought they might have made it the half-holiday for the week, and prooably there were many others of a similar opinion.

Next Tuesday the residents of the Toko district intend giving a welcome home dance to several soldiers who have recently returned. The Coronation Hall has been secured, so patrons can rely on >v good floor, etc.

After the elections excitement, readers are reminded that Midhirst is still in the same place, and that the Settlers' Association's annual picnic will be held in Ihe factory paddock. There is every reason to anticipate a successful gathering, as very large entries have been received for the principal events. Lest we forget, there are items for young and old. In the evening a dance will be held. At the returned soldiers' meeting on Tuesday evening, one of the speakers stressed the point that the Government and many large employers were not keen on granting employment to the men who have returned from the front. This stigma cannot be attached to the firm of Masters,' Ltd., as six of the staff are ex-soldiers of the King.

There is a cold snap approaching. Don't bother about the breezes or the frost, but call at C. E. James' warehouse ajid look at the fine parlor games he has for the children, and for dad he has the best brands of cigars and also tobacco, with the best of pipes to smoke his favorite mixture. For mother there is a great variety of reading matter, so why not be cheerful and contented, and all for a little cost; but remember you can get it at C- E. James'.—Advt-