At Waipukurau.

Waipawa Mail, Volume XXII, Issue 4055, 22 May 1900, Page 3

At Waipukurau.

The official confirmation of the news of the relief of Mafeking reached here about 2 p.m. on Saturday, and a general rush was made for anything that would make a noise. Steam tooters mingled with church and fire bells, hand bells and dinner gongs, whilst otherwise sober citizens were seen struggling with flags in various stages of entanglement. Soon the whole town was gay with bunting. In the evening, at 7 o’clock, a large and representative procession, headed by Mr Gow in full Highland costume, and other leading townspeople bearing Chineso lanterns, paraded the town singing “ Soldiers of the Queen ” and other patriotic songs. At 8 o’clock all assembled in front of Mr Harris’ photographic shop, to witness a display of fireworks. Intonse enthusiasm prevailed, the youngsters giving vent to their feelings by letting off showers of crackers. The fireworks were a great success and some of the rockets and Roman candles were very fine. After the fireworks a large crowd assembled io the Town Hall, where various patriotic songs, recitations and speeches were given. On Sunday a more serious spirit of thankfulness seemed to be abroad. The churches were well filled, especially in the evening. In St. Mary’s church there was hardly standing room, and a bright service of thankfulness seemed to be hearti'y entered into by all. Mr Slade sang the bass solo from Elijah “ Lord Ood of Abraham,” in a very impressive manner. The service concluded "with tho National Anthem, which was heartily joined in by the congregation.