BLUE SPUR.

Tuapeka Times, Volume III, Issue 197, 9 November 1871, Page 5

BLUE SPUR.

(From our Own Correspondent.)

Our schoolroom was literally crammed on Friday last by an assemblage eager to heat the Rev. Mr. Menzies's lecture on the "Solar System," and equally eager to see his excellent magic lantern views. Mr. John Carey occupied the chair, and in a few appropriate words introduced the lecturer to his audience. The Rev. Mr. Menzies took his hearers a "grand tour" through space, introducing them to the various planets that revolve round the blazing centre of our solar system, making a few interesting remarks upon each. After the "grand tour," the rev; lecturer brought his hearers down to things sublunary. And oh ! but it was sic a fa* From the heavens to the Broomielaw ;

At which celebrated shipping place he began his illustrations of Scottish scenery. The queen of the Scottish lakes, Loch Lomond, was then presented to view, after which followed many more interesting pictures of scenes in " Caledonia, stern and wild. " The concluding view was one of the famous palace of Holyrood. At the conclusion of the lecture, a vote of thanks was accorded to the chairman ; but from some oversight, the rev. lecturer did not receive that mark of the audience's appreciation of his efforts io entertain. Anyway, he well deserved one, and the next time he comeß we will make it up for him.

On Monday evening the Rev. Mr. Menzies exhibited his magic lantern views to the children, the admission ] charged being 6d. each. There was a j good attendance, and the rev. gentleman was repeatedly cheered by his juvenile j audience. It is needless to say that the youngsters enjoyed the treat provided for them. At the close of the exhibition, the Chairman, Mr. M'Lelland, said that | at the lecture on Friday evening the ÜBUal vote of thanks had not been given to the Rev. Mr. Menzies, and he hoped that on the present occasiou the children would I atone for their fathers' neglect. The youngsters responded right heartily to this appeal, and cheered, clapped their hands, and stamped their feet as only children know how to do. The proceeds of the two entertainments amounted to £6 75., which will be devoted' to aid the funds of the Congregational Church . Much of the success is due to the exertions of Deacon Evan Evans, who is untiring in" his efforts to aid -the good cause.