WAIRARAPA EXHIBITION.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume IX, Issue 2931, 22 June 1888, Page 2

WAIRARAPA EXHIBITION.

The Luncheon. The arrangements for the luncheon in the Temperance Hall were entirely in the hands of a Ladies Committee, and the result was even' more than could be expected, Tho tables wero

nicely arranged, and the viands varied to suit all tastes, nicely cooked and well served. Everyone had a good word to say for the luncheon which was quite a triumph for the busy workers who had prepared it. When full justico had been done to the edibles the Mayor, who presided, rose to say a few words about the original founder of Masterton - Sir George Grey (Applause). He recalled the early Maori troubles when their guest, then Captain Grey, was brought from Adelaide to manage them, and the impression the new Governor made upon him. lie met Captain Grey riding with Colonel Wakefield through the Hutfc, and when the former lifted his hat to return the speaker's salute, lie saw that he had a clever head under it. Sir George was the ablest man they had ever had in New Zealand, and they would not see his like | again. (Applause). Later on lie was' present at a banquet given to Sir George on the eve of his departure from the Colony, and recalled the speech made by him on that occasion which commenced with the words, " I see a picture.", His (the speaker's) speech on that occasion Sir George would be unlikely to remember as he had been unable to get through it. He would not detain them further from listening to their guest, Sir George Grey. Sir George Grey, who was received with cheers, said,-Our worthy chairman has just told you that in a speech at the Hutt, I said :" I see a picture —." Well, I see one now. (Applause) This much I will say of myself, and I think all will admit, .that my. youth was a laborious youfcha youth in which I laboured for my fellow-men, and the first pioneers who founded these settlements worked with me. I found among them many friends, and it is they who have made the Wairarapa what it now is, and contributed also to the prosperity of Wellington. They have enabled me in my old age to see one of the desires of my youth accomplished. (applause.) I have always taken a deep interest in the Wairarapa settlements, which they have brought to such perfection, I trust they will all work 011 continuously not dissatisfied with the past excepting in this respect that still greater things may be obtained in the future. Many here if they help the progress of the Colony will, when they come to my ago, be able to look back with satisfaction 011 their past labors. I will not detain you now, as I shall have another opportunity of addressing you later on. (Loud applause). Mr Geo. Beetham, M.H.R. (who was warmly received) then said a few words, eulogising the excellent arrangements made for the luncheon, and their indebtedness to the Ladies' Committee, and Mr Grundy acknowleged on behalf of the Committee the compliment paid.

The Opening Ceremony. Punctually to the the time appointed the principal actors in the scene were stationed on the platform, the main body of the hall bein« fairly well filled with spectators. Sir George Grey was heartily cheered on taking his seat on the platform. His Worship the Mayor, Mr A. W. Eemill, occupied the chair, and 1 was supported by Mr George Beetham, M.H.E, the liev. Mr liowse and other members of the Committee. The address of welcome (as published in yesterday's Wairabapa Daily) was read by the Rdv. Mr Bowse and presented to Sir George Grey,

who in responding said lie could truly express with what feelings of pleasure and thankfulness lie found himself welcomed in Masterton that day, and by such a number of citizens, He could tell them that those settlements founded in the Wairarapa by the enterprise of the early settlers, with whom he had taken part were attended by many remarkable circumstances. He might include himself amongst them, as he saw many old friends around him. They had the gratification of knowing that their first efforts to populate this district had not been accompanied by any injury to the natives. (Chopra), The land had been fairly acquired from the natives who had received them with open arms (cheers) and when wars were raging in other parts of the Colony those natives had stood by them lliroughoutassincoi'efriontls, (Cheers). They had studied the interests of the native papulation by setting aside for' thorn largo reservos to secure to them the ability to pass their future years in comfort. (Cheers), The footsteps of the early settlers were not marked by wrong of any kind to the natives, and they had all lived together on a lriondly footing, (Cheers.) There was nq single drop qf blood shed in that valley between the European and Native race. (Prolonged cheers.) He, must congratulate the settlers upon the progress they had made. On their first arrival there was no road, and they were a great distance from any port, They had acquitted themselves like men, and their efforts , had been blessed and crowned with success, (Cheers,) The concluding portion of the address read to him called to his mind many thoughts of the early Christian missionaries, not only in Now Zealand but also in Australia and Africa, There they [had followed out the same course as here. Whereever they had made their presence felt they had carried happiness and prosperity. (Cheers.). Many of those lnid passed away, and many also of the early settlers, and yet he now saw some in the faces arqund hp. I-Je felt thankful thft-t he lived in the nineteenth century of progress, ifay notions in business were introduced, now cities building everywhere, and the whole world was girdled with the Anglo-Saxon race. What he saw before him that day in Masterton was being repeated in many parts of the world, and yet with 110 greater success than lipre jn Masterton, (Cheers.) Everything tlitit was started with unselfish motives and for the general good \v{is bopd to flourish and go on expanding. Though (he promoters themselves might pass away still shall the work prosper and grow if it was just in principle and righteous in in-, tion, and carried on for the benefit of the masses, (Cheevs.j Not so with

objects-entered into from solfish motives; those would speedily die out whilst the other would increase in prosperity, and grow day by day. (Cheers). He was glad to see the progress made in Masterton in his own lifetime. "When lie passed away himself that would still go 011, and be blessed with peace and prosperity. (Cheers.) In declaring the Exhibition open, he hoped the efforts put forth to afford them instruction and amusement would meet with the success they deserved. (Cheers,)

Mr Geouge Beethah said he had been . asked to return thanks on behalf of the Committee, and ho had very great pleasure in doing so. He expressed the pride ho felt in being associated with Sir George Grey in the present business, He passed a high enconium upon Sir George, and said tlmt although lie to at times opposed to him politically, he highly appreciated his world-wide reputation, and his kindness of heart. (Cheers.) Ho was glad to note the rapid progress the district had made. He oxplained the origin of tho name " Wairarapa." When certain natives from a distance first arrived in this Vailey and saw the lake, they exclaimed " Wairarapa!'' (What a wonderful water.) He thought if they were to come here now, they would exclaim' Wonderful land ('(Cheers.) He said he was not a member of the Wesleyanbody, but belonged to that Universal Church which could look with gladnessjupon the prosperity and progress of every Church. (Cheers.) He expressed the pleasure he felt in seeing such evidence of their industry and enterprise, aud he wished them every success. In conclusion, lie expressed the hope that Sir George Grey might live many years still amongst them. (Cheers.)

. Mi! A. W. Renall on rising said the temptation was too great to deny them the pleasure of again hearing his voice. (Cheers and laughter), He stated the deep obligation the Wairarapa was under to Sir George Grey. The present prosperity of Masterton was due to him in the first place, (hear hear) Sir George had in the early days passed through this district before ever a road was made, or river bridged, and lie had picked upon that spot'for their township, (Cheers), Sir George Lad got set aside for them 50,000 acres to be cut up into small farms, and all honor was due to liiin for it, (Cheers). He would not detain tliem as there was a lot to see there. He thanked Mr Rowse for the efforts lie had put forth, and hoped they would bo crowned with success, [Cheers |.

The National Anthem was sung, and the Exhibition declared duly open.

The attendance of visitors, to tlis Exhibition during the afternoon and evening, numbered from 1200 to 1500, and at one time the Hall was so full that it was found advisable to close the doors against further admission for a time, The committee took the precaution to surround the exhibits with wire netting as security against their removal by accident or otherwise. Complaints were made of several youths who would insist upon forcing their way through the crowds to the annoyance of ladies and damage to dresses, The Secretary has taken stgps- to prevent the admission of these youths during the remainder of the show. In the evening the proceedings were enlivened by music and singing, a first class programme having been arranged, The overture "Gloria" from the Twelvth Mass (Mozart) was rendered by Mr Pearson's Band and at intervals the following items were rendered and much appreciated Chorus, " Chough and Crow" Choir; Song, "No my Courage" with orchestral accompaniment, Mr Wickerson; Song," Come like a beautiful dream" Mrs Kibblewhite; March " The Turkisk Patrol" Philharmonio Orchestra; Song," The Ferryman" Mr Coleman; Fantasia, " Orpheus" Paason's band; Glee," Oh Who will O'er the Downs" Choir; Song, "Standard Bearer" Mr T. 11, Jackson; Song, "The Miller and the Maid" Miss Turner; Song, " Lost Chord" with orchestral accompaniment by the Philharmonic band, Mr Gant; Chorus, " The Carnivale" Choir; Fantasia " Evening lievels" Pearson's band. The National Anthem brought the proceedings to a close. Tne Choir consisted of fifty voices. The pianists were Misses E, Perry and J. C'orbett, and Mr 11. Pearson was conductor. An entire change of programme will be made for this evening,

Exhibits, The first thing to strike tho eye on ontering tho Exhibition is the large and varied display of pictures, the whole of one side being taken up with them. Many of the pictures are at too great a height for thorough inspection, but this was unavoidable on account of the exhibits being groatty in excess of the space allated. The names of many of the exhibitors for tho same reason could not be distinguished, Miss Holmes had three specimen pnaels, paintings from naturo, two admirable shade studies, and a still life group. Mr E. Ngature showed three oil paintings of tatooed Native chiefs and a chieftainess. Mr Hugh 11. Bectham exhibited two oils "A view in Samoa" and " Abandoned to the Underwriters'' by MrR. Beetham, The latter commanded great attention. Mrs Brodie had a collection of oil' paintings, which worn greatly admired, and are intended for the Melbourne Exhibition. Mr G. J. Freeth showed two pencil drawings, "Grace Darling" and " Bow Church Yard." A framed certificate of the Colonial-Indian Exhibition was shown by Mr W. B. Allen, The Aft Union of London collection, exhibited by Mr J. C. Boddington attracted considerable notioe. There were steel engravings of" An English Merry Mailing in the Olden Time," " The Play Scene in Hamlet," " The meeting of Wellington ami Blucher," " The Death of Nelson," " Dr, Johnston awaiting an audience of Lord Chesterfield," "Joseph and Mary." " Rebecca at tho Well," ''Light and Darkness" " Tho Return of tho Lifeboat," ami "Tho Loss

|of the Revenge." Tliore wfts,m adcli" tion, a view of Lake Wakatipu, in oil' and a likeness of Sir George Grey,taken twenty years ago. As Sir George inspected the latter picture yesterday many noticed the likeness to - the picture, notwithstanding the : ravages of time, and the twenty -'j years of hard work that had inter- • veiled. Mr Bocldington had several other noticeable pictures, among which were Herring's "English Farmyard" " Members of the General Assembly, 7 18G8" and two neat sketches by the late Mr G, Young. Mr Dalrymple displayed two oil paintings by Mrs A. ; R. Nichols," Waterfall" " Dog," and 0110 by J. S. Henderson, "Dog's Head." Mr J. Pay ton has two water color drawings, " Masterton," from • the Park, and " Homebush." Mrs Majk»;-exhibited a very large collection or'pictures many ofwhich were choice. Mr T. Donnelly showed sA specimens of his skill in painting Zealand scenery, the most noticeable being "The Mitre Peak," % special request a faithful likeness ofMr E Meredith junr.' was sent in to tho Committee, together with a beautiful picture of " Twin Sisters." Mr R. Meredith's "Midsummer's Night's Dream' was effective. There were a number of other paintings worthy of notice. In water colors by Messrs H. F. Rawson, E. Brandon, and Badclifle are the most prominent. Mr H. Phillips showed capital likenesses of D'lsraeli and Gladstone.

There was 110 attempt at classification, and 110 catalogues printed. That, together with the fact of many of the pictures being placed too high to read the names of exhibitors, was a drawback which cannot now be remedied.

(To be continued!

Masterton School Committee. ■ Tlio regular monthly meeting Masterton School Committee was held lust evening. Present—Messrs E. Fsist (Chairman) A. W. Hogg, W. Prangnell. Mr W. T. Gruncly wis also in atteudanoe, The minutes of last meeting were reml and confirmed. -• The Treasurer reported a credit balance of £9 I'2. The Secretary reported the Town Lands Trustees had voted Jn Committee the sum of £SO as to (lie school. Correspondence was read from the Secretary of the Education Board, notifying the acceptance of Miss Jiipp's resignation.

From same ro exchanging school premises to Temperance Hall, and stating that the cost of making the change, and the increased rent would not warrant the proposed change. From W, T.Grundy re sale of school books and other requisites, From Secretary Greytown Scl;ool Committee stating that the practiH of the Head Master supplying books, &c, was now discontinued, it not being found to answer. From the Thorndon School Committee to the same effect.

In reply to the Chairman the Sec-

retary said there would be a saving to the Committee of £9 per annum by the removal of the infant schools / MrPrangnell thought lie better for the Committee to pay tlio cost of removal, Mr Hogg said the Inspector stated that he had not the slightest hesitation in faying that the Temperance Hall was the superior building. He thought the Board stultified itself by first ■ referring the matter to the School Committee, and then to the Inspector. He did not think it worth while to movo further, but thought it Would have been better if the Board hadljhown more firmness, If the School remained at its present site the trustees of the rooms should be asked to supply thera with a well. It was not the besd/,\vay to Mipply the school with wMs by having a supply put into theschoo/wm in a bucket, and the children to help themselves by dipping in their pannikins. He moved that an application lie made to the Trustees to supply a well, Mr C, E. Daniells seconded the motion which was carried. The Secretary informed thojucetiiig that tlio school bell had beeuApplied to the second school.

The Head-master reported the attendance at the school averaged 446 the highest being 500 and the lowest 332. There were 582 on the roll, and the very bad weather accounted for the low average, He applied for three new wall maps at a cost of £2lO.

It was resolved that tlio maps applicu for be supplied, Miss Keeling reported that at the Infant School thero wore 132 ou the roll ihc highest attendance and the lowest 47, shoving an average of 99. Tho play ground had been gravelled.

Tl,e school diary was read allowing the days upon which the visiting member had visited the school,

11l reference to supplying itii with books from the sc!i(j| Mr Grundy said since the commencement of the present year he luid only been supplying Exercise, Copy, and&aiving books. The reason they weiwppplied was that great difficulty wnsemfountered with the ohildrcn buying wrong or unsuitable books, JS T o books of any other kind lmd been kept at school except in the tipper class of the Infant school wlii're it was found neces-

sary on account of the children not knowing what to buy. At the same lime ho thought tho principle of supplying books was objectionable and he was quite prepared to relinquish it.

Mr Hogg said he was exceedingly pleased with the(cxplanation given °by Mr Grundy. lie was of opinion that the standard books were supplied, and lie was glad to have his mind disabused, Ho thought thero was no objection to the books as at present supplied bein« continued. He asked to allow the motion to be withdrawn.

Mf Grundy suggested that lie might be authorised to give shopkeepers . specimens of the books requm and • let them bo supplied by HRhop. ' keepers, Ml Piangncll said timt up to the present under the imjjlsion that all the books wero supplied by the headmaster. . Mr Daniells said ho had made oiKjuii'ics, and found the present ays;,

tem the best. He was iti favor of a supply of books being kept r.t the school in preference to tho children having to go to tho slioj>3 themselves with tlic prospect of tlioir getting the f'' wrong ones. The mot-ion was then withdrawn. The Chairman said he hail consulted with Mr Grundy, and given the children a half-holiday, yesterday as it was il-'clnrci] a holiil'iy by tin; Mayor, and but few children had attended in the morning. It was resolved that a haK-holiiUy be given die school children to-morrow afternoon lor the purpose of giving the children an opportunity of attending the Exhibition, tho head master having arranged to accompany tliein to explain to and instruct the children. Mr Galloway was appointed visiting member for tho next month, and the meeting closed.