PRESENTATION

Waipukurau Press, Issue 9, 23 January 1906, Page 2

PRESENTATION

.—o—- — A RETIRED RAILWAY EMPLOYE Between thirty and forty railway hands employed in Waipukurau and the immediate district gathered in the office of the freezing works on Saturday night for the purpose of making a presentation to Mr Edward Fee, late of the permanent, way staff, who has just retired on superannuation allowance after 21 years’ work in the service, and 80 years’ residence in the district. Mr Bogle, stationmaster, occupied the chair, and, after expressing the pleasure it afforded him to be present, made some appropriate remarks as to the working ability and personal qualities of their guest —remarks that were heartily endorsed by all present in load applause. On behalf of ti.o-e assembled the chairman then handed to Mr Fee a handsome silver-mounted pipe in case, with duplicate stem ; also a substantial, upholstered easy chair, and a wicker chair for Mrs Fee. Mr Grosvenor, on behalf of his department and self, spoke in appreciation of the recipient. Mr Fee, on rising to acknowledge the kindness of his friends, spoke very feelingly. He said he still felt fit for work, but had to fall in with the rules of the railway department. He had always got on well with his mates, and he hoped all present would live long enough in the service to become entitled to the same privilage as himself. He again thanked them for their consideration of Mrs Fee and himself. Mr Blackmore, sen., expressed approval of the Liberal Government’s action in providing for their workmen in old age. Refreshments were handed round at intervals,and during the evening songs or recitations were contributed by the following: Messrs Elliott, Grosvenor, Stewart, Brunton, Hartley, Blackmore (jun. and sen.), Lyttelton, Nicholls. A very pleasant gathering broke up at 11 p.m.