STRATFORD.

Taranaki Daily News, 6 March 1920, Page 3

STRATFORD.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) (All communications, letters, etc., left wltlr Mr. H. J. Hopklu, bookseller. Bill recelre prompt attention.) EGMONT CLUB. 1 TWO MEMBERS FAREWELLED. March 5. A very successful social evening was held by the Egmont Club last night, for the purpose of bidding farewell to Messrs. N. J. King and Henry Wjlson, two of the most popular members of the Club, who are shortly leaving the Stratford district There were over two hundred present, the proceedings being of an informal nature. The President (Mr. T. Lawson), in 'a brief introductory speech, welcomed the lady visitors, and the secretary (Mr. S. Ward) announced that the programme for the evening would be billiards, cards, and musical items, concluding with o dance in the Parish Hall. The card touras follows:—Ladies: Mrs. Thompson 1, Mrs. Jenkins 2, Mrs Russell booby. Men: Mr. Syme 1, Mr. 2, Mr. Dan Sullivan booby. The billia*d tables were kepi busy throughout the evening, opportunity being taken by lie male players to instruct the ladies in the game. Orchestral selections were provided by an orchestra consisting of Messrs. C. H. Fox (piano), W. .1. Lichtwark (violin), V. Lester (cornet), C. H. Penn (violin), J. McAlister (bass), and G. Dick (flute). As a special item a particularly fine 'cello, flute and piano trio, "Priere" (W. H. Squire), was given by Messrs Lichtwark, Dick and Fox. During the evening, songs were contributed by Miss D. Phillips and Messrs G. T. Walters, P. Coe, r.nd A. D. Bills, the accompaniments being provided by Me?sr». Fox and Edmoiidson.

Immediately before supper the presentations on behalf of the members were made, to the two guests of the evening. The presentation to Mr. N. J. King was made by Mr. R. Masters, M.P., who referred to the good work accomplished by Mr. King on behalf of the town, of which he had been Mayor for some years, and a counciiloi for a long term. During that time he had worked hard for the welfare of the borough, and the citizens would have occasion to feel grateful to him. Mr. King was also a keen bowler, and had represented the Bowling Club at many tournaments. He was also a man of the highest business- integrity. Ever since the inception of the Egmont Club he had taken a live interest in its ■affairs; not from a selfish point of view, but for the welfare of the young men of the town. In that respect he had succeeded, as could be seen bv *.hp large membership and the high; tori* 1 of the club. Mr. Masters, in hand:,.- Mr. King a travelling bag as a mark of esteem from the members, expressed regret Hint the was leaving the district, and wished both Mr. and Mrs. King long life and continued prosperity wherever they might be in the future. I Jn acknowledging the presentation, Mr. King said he felt deeply gratified at the kind words Mr. Masters had expressed regarding Mrs. King and himself. As far as his public duties were concerned, he had at least done what he thought was best for the 'town. He was very sorry that he was now leaving the town. At one time he had looked forward with I pleasure to the time when he would be leaving Stratford, but now the time had approached, he realised how hard it was leaving so many friends behind. He felt proud of the Egmont Club. It had been the means of doing a great deal of good among the young men of the town, and had been a success from its inception. He was extremely pleased to see so many present that evening, and on behalf of Mrs. King and himself, he thanked them very sincerely. The Mayor (Mr. J. W. McMillan) then made a presentation of a travelling rug to Mr. Henry Wilson, stating it was with very sincere regret they were losing Mr. Wilson's services. Mr. Wilson had taken an active part in the Club's affairs, and the good wisiies of the members would go with him wherever he might travel. Mr. Wilson said he was pleased to beI long to the Club, because it was a good clean Club, and one of the. chief attrac-

tions of Stratford for the young men. If it had not been for the Club he might have left Stratford long ago, but, the Club had been a second home to him, and had held him. to the town. "He hoped he would frequently be able to come to Stratford and visit the Club in the future.

Supper was then handed round, after which a good number adjourned to the Parish Hall, where two hours' dancing was indulged in. Messrs Pemiberthy and A. S. Davis officiated as M.'sC, and the music was provided by Messrs C. H. Fox, W. J. Liclitwark, B. Vinsen and G. Dick. MODEL DAIRY FARM. The regular monthly meeting of the committee was held on Tuesday, Mr. J. W. Dfcni presiding. It was decided to leave in the hands of the sub-committee the question of improvement to the farm road. As regards stock, Mr. Pitt stated that generally things were very satisfactory. IA young boar had been purchased. The cropping report was read and explained by the chairman and adopted. Mr. Dingle drew attention to the necessity of increasing the dairy herd. Tn his opinion the herd should be increased by at least 10 cows for next season. After full discussion the matter was left in the hands of the Stock Committee.

A vote of appreciation of Mr. A. Good's services on the executive was reeored. GENERAL. The animal picnic of St. Andrews' Presbyterian Sunday School was held at Mr, R. Wickham's farm, "Willow-bank," Ngaere, yesterday, and was a thorough success. There were about 150 parents present, and a most enjoyable day was spent with sports, games, swimming and boating. Mr. Wiekham, superintendent of the Sunday School, was in charge of the arrangements. ' Nurse Chamer, formerly of the Stratford Hospital, who recently underwent a serious operation at lvawakawa, is now reported to be much improved. Miss Norah Lawrence, daughter of Mr. H. E. Lawrence, of Stratford, has joined the staff of the Christchureh Hospital. Lest evening the staff of the Stratford Post Office made a presentation of a piece of silver to Mr. W. T. Coad, the retiring postmaster. The presentation was made by Mr. T. Purcell, the acting-postmaster, who, on behalf of the staff, wished Mr. Coad every happiness and prosperity for the future.