BANQUET TO GEORGE McLEOD, ESQ.

Thames Guardian and Mining Record, Volume I, Issue 141, 22 March 1872, Page 3

BANQUET TO GEORGE McLEOD, ESQ.

George McLeod, the prospector of the Kennedy’s Day district, and discoverer of the celebrated Tokatea claim,Coromandel, was entertained at dinner in the Army and Navy Hotel, last evening, by a party of friends, previous to his departure by the Nebraska for America. Mr James Mackay, juu., presided, and Mr Creighton, M.11.1b, was in the vice-chair. Many of the old prospectors of Coromandel, and not a few “ new chums” were present. The usual loyal toasts were proposed and responded to*, when the health of the guest of the evening (Mr McLeod) was given by the chairman, lie alluded to his personal acquaintance with Mr McLeod since the opening - of the Nelson goldfields. He paid a high and well-merited tribute to bis skill and perseverance, and to his “ indomitable pluck,” but for which the splendid returns from the Tokatea claim might not have been realised for many years. Mr McLeod acknowledged the toast, and stated that his absence would only be temporary. lie intended to return to the colony, and spend the remainder of bis days assisting bis friends to develop the mineral resources of the province of Auckland.

It was stated, from a quarter which'was not ill-informed, that the proved goldfield of Auckland extended farther south than Te Aruba, and that within a twelvemonth the country would be open to prospectors farther south than the mountain named. Tor ourselves, we wish Mr McLeod a a pleasant journey. lie is one of the lew men who do much to make a new country, and we shall be glad to welcome him on his return to this province.— Herald.