THE DIAMOND JUBILEE

Waikato Argus, Volume II, Issue 150, 24 June 1897, Page 2

THE DIAMOND JUBILEE

HAMILTON. THE PROCESSION. Soon after 10 o'clock on Tuesday a large crowd began to assemble in Knoxstreet, and while the children from tlu Hamilton East and West, Tatnaherc, Marsh Meadows and Kirikiriroa Schools were being arranged in marching order several selections were given by the Hamilton Brass Band. The procession then commenced, the band being in the lead, and the surviving numbers of the 4th Waikato Regiment under Captain Steele coming next, followed by tho firing party (members ot the Hamilton Light infantry), some 20 strong, under Captain Iteid. 1 hen followed the school children and a crowd of citizens on foot, on horseback, bicycles, and in buggies,the whole being nearly a quarter of a m le in length. On arriving at the Square a fm-tlejoie was fired at noon, and immediately afterwards the band struck up t e National Anthem, which was heartily sung by all present with but two or three exceptions, and three cheers were given for Her Majesty. HEFLESHMENTS. Ttie school girls were then marched back to the Odd'ellows' Hall, where a plentiful supply of refreshments awaited them. Mr P. E. Stevens thanked the committee on behalf of the children for supplying the good things, and tlucc cheers were called for and heartily given. During the time the little girls were in the hall an energetic committee had commenced the sports programme, anil by the time the girls were satisfied tho small boys' races had been run off, and they then took their turn at the refreshment t-ibles. THE STOUTS. In arranging a sports programme the main object was to edify the children, and there is not a shadow of a doubt the youngsters enjoyed themselves immensely. They entered into the spirit of the thing with the greatest enthusiasm, and gave the handicapper a lively time in allotting the various starts. This of course could not be done on performances, but nevertheless the finishes in each event were very c'ose. The girls seemed to take tar more interest in the games than even the boys and the number of competitors in their events far exceeded that of the boys, and as many as three heats had to bo run. Tho results were as follows :

Boys under 12 : J. Medland, 1 ; Connor, 2 ; Innes, 3. Boys under 10 : J. Wright, 1 ; J. McKen/.e, 2 ; A. Hope, 3. Slow Bicycle Race: F. Hobbs, 1 ; Goodwin, 2. This event caused a good deal of amusement anel was won c.isily by Hobbs without once falling. Girls under 12 : A. Davis, 1 ; B. Hines, 2 ; H. Whitten, 3. Girls under 1G: H. Whitten, 1 ; L. Taylor, 2 ; E. Honeybun, 3. Girls untler 10: IS'. Churches, 1 ; N. Whitakcr, 2 ; E. Manning. 3. Boys under 10: W. Clarkin, 1 ; E. Hope, 2 ; B. Sare, 3. Half mile bicyjle : P. Kirk (90yds), 1; F. Hobbs (scr), 2. D. Ross (130yds) from the limit led right to the finish, but mistook the winning post and pulled up about eighty yards too soon, otherwise the finish, which was interesting as it was, would have been very close indeed.

220 Yards Flat: G. Dodd (scr.), 1 ; J. Taylor (18yds), 2; W. Care (13yds), 3 This race produced a splendid contest between Dodtl ami Taylor, the former winning by a few inches;

220 Yards Schools Championship: G. Forbes (East) 1 ; A. Hope (East) 2 ; J. Medland (West) 3 This race was a contest between berys picked from the Hamilton East and West schools, and an excellent race resulted. The Committee of the Waikato Amateur Athletic Club are so pleased with the manner in which tlie event was taken up that it is probable a champion race for Waikato scheiols will become a regular fixture on their programme, so as to encourage athletes among the youngsters. One Mile Bicycle Rice : T. Kirk (170 yds), 1 ; F. Hobbs (40yds), 2 ; d. Drury (scr.), 3. Kirk won fairly easily, but Drury and Hobln finished clo=e together. As this concluded the programme, a great many left for Hamilton West, in order to attend the dinner given at the invitation of the Mayor and burgesses ot Hamilton, in honour of the surviving members of the olel 4th Waikato Militia and their wives.

THE DINNER. The complimentary dinner given in honour of the members of the 4th Waikato Militia and their wives cime off in the Volunteer Hall at 2.30 p.m. on Tuesday, Before sitting down to dinner Mr .las. Reid took a photograph of the members of the old regiment and their wives, and iilpo a separate picture of the ladies by themselves. His Worship the Mayor presided and the following guests were present :—Mesdames W. Steele, J. Milllions, S. Coombes, J. Davis, M. Dent, C. Hankins, H. Hinton, D. D. Hyde, W. H. Kelly, S. MoGuire, IV Munro, senr., M. O'Neill, W. Roffey, A. Smith, F. Thomas, H. VYarr, C. MeKen/.ie, Martin and J. Atkinson, and Capt. Steele, Sergts. Knox, Crosby Webber and Odium, Corporal Neils'n, and Privates Atkinson, Andrew, Davis, Cassidy, Faulkener, Fonlsham, Hankins, Henry, Hinton, Kenny, Kelly, Mayes, Martin, Mullions, McKenzio Peacock, Roche, Teas, Uzz'e and Warr. Two Crimean veterans were also present: Corporal Neilson of the Scots Greys bearing bars for Inkermann, Sebastapool and Balaclava, and Sergf. S'cele, also the proud posscss;.r of a number of war medals. Theie were about 50 others present, including Rev. R. (J'C. Bigcs, Messi'3 W. A. Graham, Jas. Hume, C. J. W. Barton, Town Clerk, .-cveial of the councillors, and many of the leading residents and visitors from the out districts and .Auckland. After an excellent dinner, supplied by Mr J. T. Home, had been partakea of the usual loyal and patriotic toasts were proposed. It was indeed a pleasing sight to see so many of the old faces beaming with pleasure as they renewed old acquaintances and recalled old seniles. The idea of the committee in tendering the complimentary dinner was a very happy one, and as such a gathering affords io much pleasure to the rem lining memb Vi of the old Vigiment, it will be a great p'ty if the re-union is not made an annual affair.

His Worship the Mayor read apologips [or tliuir absence from Messrs .los. Weblcy, B. Johnson, B. Hoiuh, A. Vincent mil E. W. Brothers, and iu proposing the toast "The Members of t\\". Fourth Rogimcut, Waikato," lie said it was now 33 years since they landed in Hamilton, and it was only natural to suppose it was a different looking place to what it is now. They came with their lives in their hand?, knowing the dangerous character of the natives they had to light. It had been said that the members of the Fourth Bcgiment had never lie.n in action, but lie was quite sure that had they been ca'led upon to defend ilic Biitish flag they would have done so readily. As the pioneers of the township they had had all ilie hard work, and n.s was often the case others reaped the benetit of theK labour, and all honour was due to them lor wh.it they had done. Since the last meeting he had no doubt death had made a good many blanks in the ranks, but he hoped it would bo a long time yet before the last member of the regiment heard his tiinl roll call. ITe hoped all present would heartily drink the coupled with the name of Captain Steele. The toast was drunk iu bumpers with musical honours.

Capt. Steele, on rising to respond, was received with continued apil.iiw. After thanking those present for the enthusiastic manner in which they had drunk the toast, he s iid those who saw Hamilton as it was now could hardly imagine the troubles and hardships the members of the old regiment had had to contend with—eveiything at famine prices and Utile or no money in the country, lie was glad to see that so many members wete spared, and hoped they would long continue so and taVe their part in the management of the district. There were people in this world whom nothing would please who said the Waikato was making no progress, that the poor were getting poorer and the rich richer ; but he was quite sure that this was deliberately false and that the V'aikato was making progress. Referring to the united service held on Sunday after noon, he said he was pleased to see all denominations uniting to join in singing praise to Her Majesty. He fancied ministers as a rule were rather backward in matters of this kind bringing their congregations together and sinking all little differences. Ho uga'll thanked them for the hearty manner in which they had drunk the health of the members of the regiment and their wives, and cal ed upon Colour-Sergeant Knox to say ti few words". Colour Sergeant Knox, on rising, was also received with demonstrations of applause. He endorsed what Captain Steele had said regarding the. trials and hatdships the members of the Regiment had gone through. Thirty years ago they had little or no money, and for sonic time a great many people were compelled to live on potatoes and salt. He was glad to see so many faces round the table and thanked the Mayor and burgesses for the high honour they had done thfin. They (the members) were leaving Hamilton a prosperous place. Referring to Sunday's meeting, he said he was much pleised to see all the different denominations assembled together. He endorsed what Captain Steele had said regarding the parsons, and thought if they would not foil into line they would have to be forced to do so. "Mr Knox resumed his seat amid applause.

Mr 11. Roche said he was one of the oldest residents of Hamilton, and was there before Captain Steele came. When he first landed in Hamilton there was nothing but a few deserted Maori whares. He was living at Kirikiiiroa six or seven months hefore the advent of the 4th Regiment. He referred to the progress that had been made and predicted that New Zealand would yet be the Britain of the south

Captain Steele then proposed the toast " Prosperity of Hamilton," and in doing to said there was no place in the world where there, was so much personal freedom us in New Zealand, and no phce where ability and worth wee so fairly recognised and rewarded as in the United Kingdom. He asked them to charge their g'assts and drink the toast coupled with the name of the Mayor ot Hamilton. The Mayor, in responding to the toast, thanked them on behalf of the burgesses of Hamilton ; he hoped that Hamilton would continue to prosper, and he had not the slightest doubt this would be the case if they once got the sugar beet industry under weigh. Mr P. E. Stevens then proposed the health of " The Press," coupled with the name of Mr Edgecumbe. 11l reply Mr Edgecumbe, on behalf of the Press, said it was a great pleasure to the members of the Press to endeavour to bring about, gatherings such as the present one. Tho members of the committee thought that this would be a fitting way of showing their loyalty to the Queen, and the pleasant way in which the old pioneers had responded to the invitation was exceedingly gratifying to the promoters. He hoped the meeting would now become an annual institution. In th.aukiug those present for the toast he hoped he would a'ways do credit to the town and the burgesses as a representative of the Press. As the oldest member, and on behalf of the regiment, Mr R. Heury proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Captain Steele. Captain Steele, in reply, said when he had raised the regiment in Victoria some of the members had remarked that as soon as they landed in WaiUuto they would be killed, while he would clear away and leave them to their fate. He had promised to stick to them, and had kept his promise for thirty-three years. He could not say whether he would be able to do so for another thirty-three years, but. he intended to try. (Laughter and applause). The gathering then dispersed. ILLUMINATIONS.

Illuniinatioos were not very general, but nevertheless some very pretty private decorations were shown. The most noticeable of these was the display at the Commercial Hotel, where Mr G. J. Mann, the popul r proprietor, had taken a great deal of trouble and incurred considerable expense in celebrating the occasion. The first object to strike the eye was a largo transpaieney over the bar door bearing the legend " Advance Hamilton," wi'h the dates 1537-ISO7 on either side and the crown ami lett'.rs V R in the centre. The bright colouring s'ono out beautifully, and the effect wasgreatlj admired. Along the parapet of the lowc.- stoiey was a long string of brilliant fairy lamps, and the footpath in front of the hotel was convened into a veritable fairyland. Pungas and cabbage trees lined the outer edge, while several arches were carried across to the hotel. The whole was ablaze with Chinese lanterns of various hues, which made the scene a charming one. The display attracted a gieat many visitors on their way to the concert given under the auspices of the Waikato Amateur Athletic Club, and many were the flattering enconitims passed upon the illumination. A gas illumination was also displayed on the top of the Waikato Hotel, which was visible for miles round This was the design of Mr A 11. Atkinson, manager of the Hamilton Gas Works. The p:emiscs of the N.Z. C (.-thing Factory were hung with a groat number of fairy lamps of various colouis, which twinkled like stars in the darkness This display also attracted a good deal of attention from the numerous parsersFor the last week or so Dr. Kenny and a large number of willing workers have been energetically gathering wood a'ul coal for the purpose of nuking a huge bonfire, which the children would remember, on one of the hills below the Hospita'. Wood was showered in from all sides, and when on Momhy the stacking was completed the affair had quite an imposing appearance and looked more like a huge haystack than anything else. To make sure of a " bnrn," the wood was soaked in kerosene ami tar barrels planted in different places. During Monday a rumour was circulated that an attempt would be made to light the pile before the appointed time, and, in order to prevent such an act, Dr. Kenny hud a coupk of watchers up all Monday night, ami happily the illadvised attempt was frustrated. About 8 o'clock on Tuesday cvcn'ng the match was applied, and the flames burst forth in all directions, making the neighbourhood as blight as day. A large mimic were present at the ceremony, and but for the fact that the bonfire was started at the same time as the concert the attendance would have been larger by some hundreds. CAMBRIDGE. Tuesday was indeed a gala day in Cambridge, and never before has the town held such a congregation of happy looking settlers with their wives and children. Soon after nine a.m. they began to arrive, and from then till 11 a.m. there was a continual influx by all the entrances into the town. Kvcrv ananue

nient had been made for the comfort of the rhi'ilrc i : the use of the Public ami Oddfellows' Hulls had been Riven free of charge to accommodate them, and the refresh meat committee had provided a bountiful store of eatabhs of the best, (juality and an unlimited supply of tea. THE I'ROCESSION, ETC. At 11 a.n.. a procession was duly marshalled opposite the Public Hall with the Cavalry Volunteers in the van. Amongst them we noticed : Capta n Runcimao, Lieutenant J Fisher, Sergeant Major B. Fisher, Sergeants Howie and Forrest, Corporals T. W. Hicks and H. Ferguson, Troopers K. Hewitt, J. Ferguson, T. Gemmill, \V. G. Park, J. Taylor, T. Walker, J. A. Fitzgerald, 15. Ewen, C. Potts, C. Shaw, G. Watt, A. McFarlane, G. Booth and M. Hanlon, and Bandsman 11. Web ier. The only distinctive mark many of them had was a, felt hat turned up on one side with a feather in it, but they all looked smart and as if they could do a little fighting now if called upon. After the cava'ry followed the Borough Council, the clergy, the band, the schoolchildren, the Domain Board, the Freemason ß , the Oddellows, and the Salvation Army The procession reached from the Public Hall almost up to Mr Popple's store, and was certainly much the largest ever seen in the district. The route taken to the Domain was via Victoria, Queen and B'ycestrcets, and the Hamilton read. On reaching the Domain Lawn Tennis grounds a square was formal, and after the. " Oil Hundredth Psalm " hid been sung

Mr VV. F. Buckland deliverid a short address on the advancement made by the British Empire during Queen Victoria's reign. He spoke cf the love British subjects had for their Queen, which he considered was the mainstay that kept the nation together. He belii ved that this great commemoration day would be a large factor in bringing about Imperial Federation, and lie ti listed at no distant date it would be accomplished. Mr Buck'and's address was brief and to the point, but we have not tpace to refpr to it at length.

The National Anthem was then sung by the whole assemblage—which must have consisted of from 1700 to '2OOO people—and the procession was reformed and marched to the open space opposite Mr Bach's Hotel, where the National flag was unfurleJ and greeted with cheers.

Archdeacon Willis and Rev. Had on then gave brief .addresses, after which the company dispersed and the children were entertained in the two Halls After they had had sufficient many adults partook of the refreshments.

The whole proceedings went off without a hitch under the able marshalling of Co.pt. Runcinian ; but much of the credit is due to Mr R. C Dyer, who measured ofT the ground in the Domain and made most of the necessary arrangc.ments. The whole affair passed off with the greatest eclat, and it will certainly be a red-letter-day in the memory of the children who took part in it. FOOTBALL MATCII. In the afternoon a football match was held in Victoria Square between the young men of the East and West, sides of the river. The East side were victorious, scoriHg six points to nil, being two tries, both obtained by M. Roberts Though defeated the West team were not disgraced and it was owing to Roberts' speed that they were beaten. They have improved wonderfully and will soon give a good account of themselves. On Monday evening many of the footballers were at the Jubilee Ball, held iu the Oddfellow's Hall, and were kicking up their heels till 4 a.m., so tlicj were not as fresh as they should have been to play football. A large number of settlers stayed to see the match, and at its close wended their way home. THE BANQUET. At 8 p m. a banquet was held at the Criterion Hotel, when 52 of the old identities, principal settlers and tradespeople of the district assembled and did justice to one of the best spreads ever laid out in the Waikato, of which the following was the menu:—Soups: Vermicelli and ox-tail Fish: Oysters, Mullet and Flounder. Game : Roast pheasant. Poultry: Boiled chicken, roast, duck, fowl ami turkey. Joints: Roast beef, mutton, pork, corn beef, hair, and tongue. Sweets : Apple pie, apricot, peach, gooseberry, plum pudding, stewed prunes, blancmange, jam tart, peaches, pears and jelly. Fruit, cakes, tea, coffee and 00001. Wines : Claret: St. Julien. Australian wines : Frontignac and Tokay. English wines : Port and Sherry. Brandy : Henncssy One Star. Whisky : Ussher's Special Reserve, Bott'cd and Draught. Ales and Stouts : Dunedin bottled ale and stout, English bottled ale and stout, Ehrenfricd's draught ale. The chair was occupied by Mr W. H. Hemes, M.H R., and the vice-chairs by His Worship the Mayor (Mr A. Bach) and Mr E. Allen, 'the vice-President of the Waikato Farmers' Club. After ample ji.-ticc had been done to the eatables provided by Mr and Mrs Kerr, the Chairman gave the toast of " The Queen,'' and in doing so he pointed out ho v the British nation had been built up by conquests, in which the Sovereigrs formerly took active part, I Hit now that duty devolved upon "Tommy Atkins.''' The Queen, he said, was their principal guest that evening, and he called on all present to do her honour by heartily drinking success to her and a continued happy and prosperous reign over her United Kingdom. We need hardly say the Chairman's invitation was heartily responded to, the National Anthem being sung immediately after. The following is a list of the toasts and songs given during the evening: " The Prince of Wales and the rest of the Royal Family," by the Chairman Chorus, " God Bless The Prince of Wales." Song, " The British Lion," Mr J. Howe. " The Acting Governor and the Governor Elect," by the Chairman. Song, " The Englishman," Mr C. Hunter. " The Colonial Premiers," by the Vice-chairman (Mr Bach). Song, " The Longshoreman," Mr T. W. Simpson. " The Legislative Council and the House of Representative," by the ViceChairman, and responded to by the Chairman. " The Army, Navy and Volunteers," by the Vice-elnirma'i, and responded to by Sergeant-Major Fisher for the Army, and Mr T. Wells for the Navy. The latter a'so spoke on behalf of Captain Runciumn, who had left the rejoicings to return home to a member of his family, who was seriously indisposed. Song, " Topi Bowling," Mr Howe. " The Churches of all Denominations," by Mr E. J. Brooks, "and responded to by Archdeacon Willis. " Simon the Cellarer," Mr T. Peek. ■' The Agricultural anil Commercial Interests," by Mr W. F. Buckland ; responded to by Messrs T. W. Hicks and T.* Wells. Seng, " First In The Field," Mr G. Edgecumbe. "The Local Bodits of the District," by Mr Hicks, responded to by the Mayor of Cambridge, Mr Bieh ; the Chairman of the Domain Hoard, Mr Wells ; and the chairman of the Pukekura Highway Board, Mr Allen. Song, " The Death of Nelson," Mr Howe. " The Old Identities," propo.-el by Mr G. McCullagl). Song, " The Old Identity," Mr Forrest. The toast was then responded to by Messrs G. Edgecumbe, G. E. Clark, G. Watt, and R. Fisher. Song, '• Killaloe," Mr Simpson. " The Ladies," by Mr Forrest. Chorus, " litre's a Health to all Good Lassies'" Mr T, A. Hicks responded on behalf ol the ladies. Song, "Sweethearts :;M 1 Wives," Mr Gregory. " The Press," by Mr (i. F. Clark and responded to by Messrs Edgecumbe and Bond. Song, '• Annie Lisle," Mr T. W. Hicks, w |,o then proposed " The Hunt Club." Responded to by Mr Bach, the Secretary of the Club, and Mr Hewitt said a few

words on behalf of the Master (Mr Douglas). The remaining toasts were " The Banquet Secretary .and Committee," responded to by Messrs Simpson, Hicks and Forrest. " The Jubilee Baby " —the Duke of York's latest edition—by Mr Simpson ; responded to by the latest happy father, who happened to be Mr G. McCnllagh. " The Host and Hostess" by the Vice-ehair, and replied to briefly by Mr Kerr. The Chairman and the Vice-chairman were duly toasted, and after they had eaeli responded " Auld Lang Syne " was sung, which was followed by the National Anthem, and the proceedings terminated about 2 a.m.

TE AWAMUiU.

The celebration of the sixtieth anniversary ( f the Queen's reign was taken part in by a large number of settlers and their children. All the surrounding districts were largely represented. The proceedings commenced at about half-past eleven, when the school children fell in at the school and marched through the town, each child carrying a flag The procession was headed by the Tc Awamutu Bard, and the children were followed by the members of the Town Board. On arrival at the Town Hall the National Anthem was sung and the National Flag hoisted. Mr Rees thru gave an interesting address to the children. He lightly touched on the principal events of Her Majesty's reign, and enlarged upon the progress the colonies had made during the period and the benefits which had been conferred upon them by the Old Country. The children's luncheon, of which almost '250 partook, followed. The general public also participated in the refreshments. After all were satisfied in this respect, a move was made towards the Victoria Jubilee Paik, where seven oak trees w ere planted—one each by scholars of the four schools represented and one each by members of the Puniu, Town and Domain Boards. Ail then moved to the ground set aside for sports, in which the children indulged till 4.30 p n:., when tea was served, and tke proceedings ware .terminated by a display of fireworks at about 7 o'clock. The celebia'.ion was a decided success, aud the following gentlemen win ha I the matter in hand and served in various capacities, are entitled to a word of praise—namely, Messrs J. Mandcno, C. Bowden, J. P. Vause, D. Bockett, S. Bond, Kirkham, Watson and G. M. Aliii-r. The business places of Messrs Ahier, and Gibson Bros: were nicely decorated in the usual manner. In the evening there was a concert in aid of the Libraiy funds, at which there was a very large attendance. Mr F. W. Lane, M.H.R., presided as chainmn. The following programme was very successfully gone through. The first part of the programme consisted of : Overture, " Dause Majesti(|iie," Orchestra ; opening address, Mr Lang, ; solo, Mr J. Cavanas/h ; solo, Miss Allen ; recitation, " The Bicycle Boom," Mr H. J. Bell ; solo, " A Dream of Paradise," Mrs Andrew ; solo, " The Englishman " (encored), Mr J. Mandeno ; violin solo, " Yc Banks and Braes," Miss D. Bowden ; solo, Mr Deaville ; humorous fong, " The Days When I Was Young " (encored), Mr Vause ; solo, (with tableaux), " Rule Britannia," Mr J. Anderson, After an interval the items in the programme for the second part were gone through :—Overture, Orchestra ; solo, Mr J. Cavauagh ; solo, " The Sunshine of Paradise Alley," Mrs Hunter ; recitation, Mr King ; solo, Mr J. Anderson ; tolo, Miss Allen : solo, Mr Ryder ; recitation, Miss B. Lewis ; duet, " The A.B.C Lesson," Mrs Andrew and Mr Vause ; selection, " The Gathering of the Clans," Orchestra. The last items was the hat trimming contest by bachelors, which it is needless to say caused great amusement, more particularly to the fair sex. " God Sire The Queen," was then heartily suns by the whole company, who then moved outside to witness the display of fireworks, which took place in front of the hall. A dance followed and was kept up till nearly 2 a.m.

PATERANGL

On Tuesday morning over 20 settlers gathered at the cemetery, and during the course of the foremen the fern was cut, about '2O trees of various sizes cut down and cleared away, and a c rcular plot in the centre was dug up and a number of shrubs planted therein. At 2 o'clock old and young gathered at the school. The Paterangi Brass Band was in attendance and played a number of selections during the afternoon. After the planting of a number of oak trees by the children and several ladies, games by the children and football by the young men, refreshments followed. The band then played " Gcil Save the Queen," which concluded the proceedings. In the evening there was a good gathering in the school. Mr \V. Macky occupied the chair and opened the proceedings by a short address, which was followed by a piano so'o by Miss Ecca Macky. " Rule Brittania," by Mr Partington, was very well sung, the audience j lining in the chorus. An excellent recitation, " The Record Reign," by James Kyburn, was much appreciated. That beautiful song, " The Toilers," by Mrs Pairing ton, was well rendered and loudly applauded A most interesting address by Mr Kay followed, in which he showed the advances made dining the Queen's reign in arts and scieuce and contrasted the condition of the people at the beginning of th's cen tury with our own. Mrs Wm. Macky opened the .second part of the programme with a pi.mo solo. Mrs Grace made her first appearance in " Hearts and Homes," which was well received and an encore demanded ; last verse repeated. An address by Mr Smith was followed I y a song by Mi.-.s Gennaim, untitled " By the Fountain," which was also well rendcml. Mr Partington then sang " Long Live the Queen " in a capital manner, and it is needless to say tint it found an echo in every heart. Mr John Kay gave " The Outlaw," and Mr (Strmanu followed with a thorfc address. "God Save the Queen " and refreshments closed the Jubilee celebrations. The sum of £'2 lis was collected.—(Own Correspondent). KIHIKIHI. The Jubilee of the Queen's reign was duly celebrated here, and was the greato.-t function which has ever taken place in the township. The day commenced with a football match between a team of Patau era natives and Kihikihi, and resulted in a s : gual victory for the home team, notwithstanding their having played two men short. The store was lit points to nil. The school children and the Town Hoard headed by tli3 Maoii band marched to the Public Hall, where they sang the National Anthem and partook of luncheon.

The committee had prepared a roasted bullock for all-comers, and this was liberally partaken of. Sports for the children were the or-ler of the afternoon. These came oil in an adjoining paddock, and were entered into with great spiiit. There was a tug-of-war between natives and Europeans. Afterwards some four hundred natives danced a haka, which was much appreciated by the onlookers.

In the evening there was a bonfire in the township and a display of liieworks, which was much appreciated, more particularly ly the natives. The day concluded with a ball in the Public Hall, the music being provided by the native baud, and was really good.

OTOROHANGA. 40P* There was a large gathering of both European and Maoris at 4 o'clock on Sunday afternoon to sing the National Anthem. Mr G. T. Wilkinson made a few suitable remarks, and also read an extract from Tuk Argus, which he said shortly and thoroughly expressed the sentiments that were at the bottom of the present celebrations.

AUCKLAND

The citizens of Auckland did their full share in showing honour to Her Majesty. The first item of the day's proceedings was a monster procession, consisting of military and naval forces, and of all the public bodies and school children, in all about 6000 persons. The procession was heartily cheered by the public as it wended its way from Queen-street to the Domain. The Mayor (Mr Dignan) then gave an eloquent address, in the course of which he reviewed soire of the events of the reigu. He then called upon the children, who numbered about 1000 of each sex, to sing the National Anthem, this they did, assisted by the general public, and at its conclusion gave thre-i hearty cheers for Her Majesty. The A Battery tired a royal salute. A military tournament fo'lowed and after that came sports. The public buildings and business premises in the city were generally illuminated with taste and brillancy. The demonstration is reported to have been a pronounced success.

CHURCH SERVICES.

UNITED SERVICE AT HAMILTON. The idea of holding a united service, whicli we believe originated with Capt. Runciman,was probably the happiest idea that suggested itself in Waikato. The carrying of it out was certainly the most successful function throughout the whole ' celebration. The Hall was crowded to its utmost capacity, and at kast two hundred people were obliged to content themselves with standing room outside the door or in the dressing rooms at the back of the stage, and many returned to their homes altogether disappointed. On the stage were the Mayor of Hamilton (Mr W. Dey). Revs. R. O'C. Bigijs (Anglican), Father Amandolini (Catholic), J. Mitchell (Presbyterian), Dr. Hosking (Wesleyan), and Capt. McClemont (Salvation Army), while behind them thronged the united choirs of the various churches, and a very large and effici-nt orchestra under the conductorship nf Mr S. Mcachem. His Worship the Mayor, who occupied the chair, said it gave him the greatest pleasure ti preside at such a representative gathering on Mich an auspicious occasiou. They were met to do honour to a nob'e woman, and he thought it was their duty to render thanks to Almighty God for His goodness and mercy towards her. Psalm C was then sung by all present. The Captain of the Salvation Army read a pa'sage from the Scripture?, choosing Romans xm. 1 to 10. The Rev. R. O'C. Biggs in the course of his address said they had met together to pray for their beloved Queen on the occasion of the GOth anniversary of her accession to the throne, and also render thanks to God for His pre-erving care to her during her reign of three score years, for His guidance and the many blessings bestowed upon her people during that time. George 111 had a very long reign and he was both a moral man and constitutional governor, and under him the Kingdom extended considerably, but under their own beloved Queen, who was a good moral woman and constitutional ruler, the Kingdom extended still more widely and was still increasing. He referred to the wonderful discoveries and inventions, and hoped that the Queen would be loDg spared to reign over them. The rev. gentleman then offered up a prayer. The Rev. Father Amandolini, who followed, said he was there to represent and voice the sentiments of the Catholic Church, and Catholics in general, but more especially the Irish Catholics. He had hid 25 years' experience among Irish Catholics in differcut parts of the world, aud he was convinced that Her Majesty the Queen had no more loyal subjects than they. Loyalty consisted in deeds rather than word. It was said that wherever there was a row an Irishman was in it, and he was surd that whenever war broke out there the Irishman would be found, willing to shed his last drop of blood for his country and his Queen. Her Majesty had earned the undying gratitude of the 300 millions of Catholics throughout the world, and as a proof of their sincerity he was sure all the Catholics present would join heartily in singing " God Save The Queen." The Te Deum was then sung. Dr. Hosking, in the course of his remarks, said he thought the idea of holding a combined service a particularly happy oi.e. He had attended larger meetings, but never in his life had he seen one like the present—on such a platform, as a representative of the Wesleyan Church, with its 30 million members he testified to its loyalty, md spoke of the grandeur of the present reign. He referred to the great, chauges that had taken place, and thought tiny should be especially thankful for the marvellous changes in the criminal code. Referring to the united gathering, he said the spirit of brotherhood was brought into the world by the Lord Jesus Cliriftt, and he believed the time would come when the while human race would unite in one great fraternity —honouring one another, although they may differ. He was quite sure this event would be an epoch in the history of Hamilton, and he hoped that everyone would unite in Mnging the National Anthem.

Capt. McClerr.ont of the Salvation Army said it v. as impossible to look round and see the grca f progress that had been made without feel ng that the Queen had bce-i guided by a far greater Power than that which lies in the human breast. He compared the freedom and privileges enjoyed to-day with those of 30 or 60 years ago, and hoped the Queen would be long spared to reign over th'tn.

Mr Mitchell in his opening address spoke of Her M tjesty as a grand homely woman who was not above visiting the houses of the cotters in the district in which she lived, and this very fact increased the love of Iter subjects. In referring to the gathering he siid they we e much indebted to Capt. Ruueiman, who was the first to suggest the idea. As to the loyalty of the Presbyterians, he was quite sure more loyal subjects would not be found throughout the British Dominions.

llic National Anthem was then sung b/ nearly GOO voices, and at its conclusion the benediction was pronounced by the Kcv. K. O'C. Biggs. ST. PETER'S, HAMILTON. At .St. Peter'*, Hamilton, the morning service as directed by the church authorities partook of a special clmac'er. The service was opened with the singing of the National Anthem, and the other parts as ordered were rendered by the vicar, the Rev. R. O'C. Biggs. The singiiH' and ceremony generally was most hearty. The vicar took for bis text Psalm xxi., Ist verse : " The King jha'l rejoice in thy strength 0 Lord ; exec cling glad tlull be be of thy salvation," and traced from the Bible the divine institution cf the Kingly ilHce ; and he pointed out that although j£ J* might sen) strange that both Moses and Samuel had recognised the evils ot monarchy and had warned their people acjun-t them,it was. not against the rule of a King under divine inspiration, but against irresponsible tyranny on the part of the ruler on the one band, and abject slavish submission on the part of the people on

xc other. The deposition of Kings divine authority showed that although placed in authority the Kingly office gave co inhere it right to rale" in accordance with the personal will of the Sovereign or for his own pre.fit. but for the good of his subjects, and his deposition as the deliberate act of his subjecla was fully warranted. Cur Saxon forefathers while heathens were prepared to receive the teaching as to the sacred office of the ruler, and to the Jew the King was the centre (f national unity and the witness of national p?rmancuce. With them the temple also bore witness to these two, and with ihe Jews there was no conflict between Church and State. Any social order or civil freedom which we now enjoy we owe to the recognition of tha saeredness of the Royal office dy our forefathers, and we cantiot afford now to part with these convictions. The Bible, Co pels and Church have a message to each man as an individual, to men as a rac, ard also to men as members of a nat'on, and the preacher quoted texts bearing tn these points. The festival now being celebrated throughout the whole wor'd was an exceptional one Her Vajesty the Queen had been special'y destiucd by God to do great and mighty works on the earth. During her reign she had seen the extension of her Empire and the advancement of God's work. Many great inven'ions had taken place, she hud known many distinguished statesmen, soldiers, lawyers, divines, authors and physicians, and above all she had witnessed a great improvement in the condition of the poor, the uplifting of the degraded, and the helping of the helpless. She had been a good and noble woman—tender to feel, patient to endure, and strong to be.ar. She had had her full share of joy and sorrow ; she had rejoined with her people in their joy and grieved with them in their sorrow, and as a Qiuen she had shown strongly the royal spirit of Christ. ST. MART'S CATHOLIC CHURCH. A special service was held at S. Mary's, Hamilton, on Sunday morning. Tnere was a very large congregation. High Mass was celebrated by the parish priest, the Rev. Father Aniandolini. The music of the Mass (" The Mass of the Holy Childhood ") was most efficiently sung by the choir, assisted for the occasion by several friends. The instrumental music was supplied by a strong orchestra under the leadership of Dr Haeusler. During the service a Te Dcum, composed by Bishop Cagliero, of South Patagonia—a splendid piece jf mnsic—was beautifully rendered, being performed with spirit mul precision, and its rendition reflected great credit upon both orchestra and choir. The music throughout the service was very pleasing, and gave great gratification to all present. Father Amundolini, in addressing the congregation, said they were that day commemorating the sixtieth anniversary of the accession of Alexandrina Victoria to the throne of Great Britain and Ireland. Our Queen ruled over the most mighty and expansive Empire ever known in the history of the world, and no less than 350,000,000 subjects owed allegiance to her. At the present moment the eyes of the whole world were rivetted upon London, "where the Queen, surrounded by the men of light and leading from all parts of her dominions would be the central figure hi a magnificent pageant that would be indicative of the might and power of the great empire that was represented in the concrete by her person. Circumstances would not permit of their celebrating the occasion in a very pretentions manner, still their loyalty if humbly expressed need be none the leas sincere on that account. The rev. Father referred in eloquent and admiring terms to the worthy character of Her Majesty, as shown forth in her life and conduct, both as a sovereign and in her domestic life. Her marriage with Prince Albert had been an especia'ly happy one, and the manner in which the young Queen had discharged her duties as a wife and a mother, no less than us a sovereign, had wou for her the good opinion of all. Her home was truly a " happy English home," and was a worthy pattern to every family in her kingdom ; whilst her court presented a model for all less refined courts. For this meritorious result, Father Aniandolini said the Catholic Church was justly entitled to a meed of praise. The Queen was the offspring of a " mixed marriage." Her father, the Duke of Kent, was a Protestant; the Duchess of Kent was a German Princess and a member of the Catholic communion. The Duko died when his daughter was but eight months old. Her early training was thus left entirely in the hands of her Catholic mother, who nevertheless conscientiously discharged her obligation to have her daughter brought up as a Protestant. It was due in a great measure to her Catholic training that so much that was noble and praiseworthy had been developed in the character of the Queen. Throughout her reign she had lived an upright and pure life, and though her Court was the cynosure for the eyes of the teeming millions of her subjects, nothing could be discovered against which reproach could justly be levelled. The death of Prince Albert, to whom she had been so devotedly attached, had cast a deep gloom over the subsequent life of the Queen, and sho withdrew thenceforth from participation in State ceremonials and festivities, seeking quiet and seclusion in the Highlands. Although retiring from public life to this extent, the Queen had never neglected her official duties, and she had proved herself the most truly constitutional monarch that hail ever sat upon the throne. She had been a friend to the Catholics, and this he believed was, due to the influence and training of her mother. Previous British monarchs, almost without exception, had been prone to bind fresh fetters upon the Catholics and to load them down vith disabilities, but the present Queen had ever used her influence to have the disabilities to which they were subjected removed. She had formed many sincere friendships with leading and notable Catholics, and her long aud loving friendship with the ex-Empress of the French might be cited as an illustration. The example set by her in this respect had been productive of good, and to it he attributed the better understanding now existing between the Catholic and Anglican clergy. When in France or Italy it was her custom to worship with the Catholics, and she frequently visited their monasteries and convents. He did not wish anyone to infer from his remarks that the Queen was a Catholic, but she ccrt'iinly had Catholic sympathies. He inent : oned these facts to show that she hail assisted to break down the barriers of bigotry that had divided the Catholics and Protestants. The wall of partition was surely crumbling away, and there was now more of a spirit of unity existing in place of the hatred that at one time prevailed. This was illustrated in a degree by the members of other persuasions who wire uniting with them in their service that day. Whilst it was their duty to pray for their foes, it was an easy matter to pray for their friends, and in concluding Father Aniandolini requested the congregation to stand whilst a Latin version of the National Anthem, was sung by the choir. Before the congregation dispersed, Father Aniandolini warmly thanked the members of the orchestra and choir for their kind and valuable assistance in the service that morning. "The War Match of the Priests" from Athalie (Mendelssohn) was played as a recessional inarch by the orchestra.

I'KESHYTKKIAN CHUKCH HAMILTON. 4feXo» Sunday l.ist the serv'ces at the OTbve chinch were < f a special character in commemoration of Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee, llnrc was a large congregation at each service. In the morning Mr Mitchell preached from I'salm exxn. 0 : '• Pray for tiie peace of Jerusalum ; they thall prosper that love thee." At the conclusion of a

forcible address, the preacher said that the secret of the Queen's prosperity was to be found iu her reverence and love fo- holy things In these democratic days we were apt to regard our Sovereign as a irere figure be id and to forget that as Ihe head of the nation she exercised a great iu'lucncc. Cur beloved Q'leen had always been on the side of righteousness, and whether as a women, wife, mother, or Sovereign, her influence for good upon the nation could hardly be exaggerated. We should lift up our hearts in thanksgivings to God for giving us such a good Queen. By her love of goodness, and her loyalty to the King of King", she had been a bles-ing to all her people, and through them to the whole world. In the evening the subject was : " Some problems of the Queen's re ; gn and their so'ution." The text was taken from Galatians in. 28. Mr Mitchell said that the three grot distinctions that parted the old world were distinc tioos that still abide and divide—(l) religious caste, (2) eooial condition, (3) sex. With regard to the tiist distinction, the preacher stated that it was not possible to destroy natural aud national characteristics. There were those who by birth and training laid more emphasis on forms and ceremonies than on the realities they represented, and there were those who cared little for symbols so long as' they could get and keep hold of the truth and reality of things. Men would never, in this world, all think alike on church government, religious foims and creeds, and the problem wa«, if these fundamental differences must continue, how could men ever be united in a happy brotherhood ? (2) The contrast between " bond and free " no longer existed in that form, but though formal slavery was abolished the distinction suggested by these tcrmj was not obliterated During the last sixty years fierce conflicts had been waged betivccn capital ant' labour in the Queen's dominions, and the contrast between wealth and poverty was still very marked. The problem \vas, how could master and servant, rich and poor, be made one ? (3) How could the great constitutional difference of character expressed by the antithesis " male and female " be overcome ? The solution of these three great problems is "in Christ." When Jew and Greek, master and servant, male and female, all believed that Jesus Christ was the Lord and Saviour of every one cf them, that His salvation was offered to each and all on pn cisely the same terms, that they were all children of the same Heavenly Father, then natural and national distinctions would no longer divide them, tut they would all be bound together in fraternal ties. There would not be unanimity, but there would be " unity of spirit." The National Anthem was sung at both services, Mrs Austin presiding at the organ. CAMBRIDGE. The celebration of Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee commenced at Cambridge on Sunday, when special reference was made to it by the ministers of the various denominations, and in every place of worship we believe the National Anthem was sung at each service throughout the day. At St. Paul's Wesleyau Church the Rev. L. Hudson made the unique reign the subject of h's discourse, and he pointed out the great progress that had been made and the extended privileges British subjects had enjoyed since Her Majesty came to the throne. At St. Andrew's Church special thanksgiving services were held at 3..50 pin. and 11.30 p.m., in addition to the ordinary ones, to which all were invited. The afternoon service was largely attended indeed, the building was crammed, and there cannot have been less than from 300 to 350 present. The Mayor and Councillors, the Freemasons aua the Oddfellows had been specially invited, and they rolled up iu goodly numbers. At the late set vice nrurly 70 wre present, not a few of them being country sett ers who had journeyed a considerable distance to join in the thanksgiving at the same time as the thanksgiving was being held in Westminster Abbey.

OHAUPO. On Sunday last we had a service iu the Ang icau Church, to celebrate the Queen's Record Reign. The Rev. Mr Marshall officiated. There was a large congregation. The choir had been practising for some time past, and the singing was the best we ever had in the church ; the National Anthem was sung with great heartiness, the organ being played to perfection hy Miss A. Marshall. The rev. gentleman took for his text. Daniel XII 32, from which he preached an appropriate sermon, which was listened to with marked attention. He drew attent : on to some of the most important events that have taken phce during Her Majesty's long reign, and contrasted New Zealand to-day with what it was GO years ago. Although the countiy is young, we are a prosperous community, and the natives are loyal. Nations, like men, were punished for their wickedness, the difference being that nations were punished in this world and men hereafter. So long as England remained a Christian nation aln would ever be great. The preacher culogucd the British Government for their manner of dealing with native races; as we shire in her glories we should also share in her responsibilities. Trey were asked to-day to contribute towards a school for native girls; they already have cue for boys, and they were certainly respons-ible for the education of the young of both races,and an institution of the kind would be a bless ng to the country, The singing of the National Anthem concluded the service. The collecting was £2 Bs, which was considered satisfactory. The thanks of the congregation arc due to The AkgUs for copies of the National Anthem for distribution.

RAGLAN. Special services in commemoration of the sixtieth arniversary of Her Majesty's accession were held in the Church of England lust Sunday afternoon, and in the Congregational Church in the evening. 'The former service was conducted by the lay reader (Mr LaTrobe), and was well attended, all joining most heartily in the service. Exactly at 4 p in. the National Anthem was sung in a most heart}' manner.