VALEDICTORY.

Waipa Post, Volume I, Issue 19, 20 June 1911, Page 3

VALEDICTORY.

MR W. G. ABBOTT FAREWELLED The esteem in which Mr W. G. Abbott is held was evident by the large gathering of friends which assembled at the Commercial Hotel last evening to bid him farewell on the eve* of his departure for Auckland. The dining room was well filled with friends from all parts of the district, and from the very evident regret expressed by all it was clear that Mr Abbott during the brief period of his residence in the town, has formed many genuine friends. Mr J. T. Reid presided. The customary toasts were duly proposed and responded to. In a brief speech Mr Reid explained the object of the meeting. He spoke of the judgment of Mr Abbott as a hotelkeeper, and who had always given eveiy consideration to all classes of the commu.iity. He referred to the interest shown by Mr Abbott in all healty and clean sport, and how he would be missed in this sphere.

On behalf of those present he presented a handsome travelling bag inscribed to W. G. Abbott presented by his many friends of Te Awamutu, at the same time

expressing regret at the departure and welcomed him back to Te Awamutu. He wished MiAbbott success in his new venture, at the same time referring to his business abilities, which would no doubt result in success. In conclusion, he wished both Mian d Mrs Abbott long life and prosperity. Mr Moeller in a brief speech also spoke of the regret that was felt at the departure of their guest and wished him all success.

Mr Abbott, on rising to reply, was greeted with , applause. During the 12 months he had been in Te Awamutu he had formed many friends, and would only have pleasant recollections of his stay here. He referred to the sporting interests of the residents of the town, at the same time referring to the action of the Cambridge Union in disqualifying the Te Awamutu team. He introduced his successor, Mr Lims, whom he had known for the past 6 years. On behalf of Mrs Abbott and himself he

thanked all for the kindly expressions shown. Mr Luhs thanked all for their welcome, and hoped by his action to warrant a continuance of their goodwill. Mr J. Bathurst, a former proprietor, also spoke in suitable terms of the occasion. During the evening songs were contributed by Messrs Blennerhassett, Henry, Tickelpenny, Warburton, Douglas, Bathurst and Clark. The singing of "Auld Lang Syne" brought a very enjoyable evening to a close.