Valedictory.

Waimate Daily Advertiser, Volume III, Issue 177, 18 July 1901, Page 3

Valedictory.

The paitft-shop of Mr W. J. Wills in John street was cleared •and draped with flags last evening, to accommodate the guests at a smoke concert given by the fellowemployees of Mr Geo. Rodgers, who Is leaving the Waitangi Engineering Works, where he has been for several years in Mr Wilis’ employ. Mr Wills occupied the chair, having on his right the guest of the evening. The first toast was that of “ The King.” The nest was “ The Army, Navy and Volunteers,” coupled with the names of Lieut. Jackson, FarrierSergt. Ward, and Sorgt. R. J. 'Smith. The next was “ OurALuest,” pronosod by tho chairman, who eulogised Mr Xiodgerg, and said he expected to see hii#reach a very high oosition in engineering. On behalf of himself and Me Rodgers, he presented their guest with a Case of turners and fitters instruments, and a photo of the shop and hands. The case is of mottled tofcara, and is the work of Mr John Presland, of XVaimate. A. silver plate is let in the top, and on this is engraved, “ To Mr George Rodgers, from bis •fellow-eniplbyeea in the Waitangi Iron Works.”

Mr Pitcaithly, headmaster of the •District High School, had much pleasure in speaking to the toast. He mentioned his first meeting with Mr Rodgers. He was making a -model engine, and the speaker was so much struck with his earnestness and ambition that he offered to help him with mathematics. This was accepted, and for ten months they worked together. He was, without exception, the cleverest young man be ever met. It was really a pleasure to teach such a one, for he never, failed to do his appointed work, no matter what' else he bad to do. He hoped to be able to do him greater service, and hoped to see him soon at the top, where he was destined to stand. The work he had had to do, and the assistance he had received from Mr Wills had stood him in the greatest stead. Mr Morgan, of Waihao Downs, where Mr Kodgets formerly worked, added a few words appreciative oi his ability. Mr Rodgers heartily thanked present for the manner in which they had received him. He was going away to better himself, otherwise be would have been only ; too happy to remain with his very; good chums. He had received great assistance from Messrs Wills, Pitcaithly and Goldstone, and he would always rethember it tyith gratitude. - Other toasts honoured .were the “ Borough Council,,’ “ Commercial Interests,” > The Fire Brigade,” « Press,”; “ Caterer,’.’ ahd-“ Chairman.” dongs and recitations were given by members of the-comp any, and a pleasant time spent. Mr Rodgers was. also presented with a gold finger .ring - with his monogram engraved on - it, by ms fellow lodgers—in their bachelor 1 quarters.