NGARUAWAHIA.

Waikato Argus, Volume V, Issue 342, 17 September 1898, Page 2

NGARUAWAHIA.

Farewells.—Never in the history of Ngaruawuhia has there been such an exodus of people as there is going on ut the present time. Almost daily we are called upon to bid farewell to some one who for some time has made the delta township his home, and it is becoming quite a by-word " Who is going next." During the past week or two no less than six families, besides individual persons, have taken their departure, or are making preparations for so doing. As has already appeared in your columns, Mr Guthrie, who uutil quite recently owned a sawmill in this township, has taken over the Waipa Hotel from Mr Smith, the late popular host. Although the public wish Mr Guthrie every success in his new enterprise, great regret is felt at Mr Smith's departure. His many friends could not allow him to leave the district without showing in some way their appreciation of him, and so on Thursday evening they tendered him a dinner and smoke concert. Quite a large number of friends attended, including some from Huatly, Taupiri, and Whatawhata. At eight o'clock the whole company sat down to a sumptuous dinner, provided by the new hostess, Mrs Guthrie, who, in spite of the fact that she had only taken possession that morning, had everything in first-class style. Mr Fitzpatrick occupied the chair. After dinner the smoke concert opened with the customary toast to the Queen. In proposing the toast of the evening, the Chairman stated that he had known Mr Smith from boyhood, who, even at that time, had a high place in his estimation and during the time that had elapsed since. He wished both Mr and Mrs Smith every success and happiness in the future. Mr Smith suitably responded. The following toasts were also proposed duriug the evening : " The Army and Navy," " The Government," " Our Farmers," " Our Local Industries," " The Dairy Association," " Railways," " The Regatta." " The Ladies ,: and " The New Host and Hostess." Songs were sung by Messrs Hunt, Sinnnelhag, Waring, White and Leighton, and recitations were given by Messrs T. W. Davies and Walls. Mr Leighton presided at the piano. At midnight the concert broke up with " Auld Lang Syne," and three cheers for Mr Smith, and everyone seemed to have thoroughly en]oyed*theinselves. On the same afternoon the ladies of Ngaruawahia, made a presentation to Mrs Smith, as a token of their esteem. Both Mr and Mrs Smith may rest assured that they leave with the good will of all the people of the place.—(Own Correspondent).