THE DINNER.

Waikato Times, Volume XV, Issue 1275, 31 August 1880, Page 2

THE DINNER.

After the necessary * ablutions'" and change of dress, tire two teams were entertained at dinner at tl}6 Alexandra Hotel, where a most sumptuous spread had been already prepared for them. Host Finch's reputation as a caterer is proverbial, and on this special occasion he outrivalled himself to sustain his j>r"stit/e. All the good things procurable at this season of the year were produced in abundance for the enjoyment of those -who had so well earned a good dinner in doing battle for their respective districts, and served up in a stylo that the great Soyer himself would have been proud of. Having thoroughly discussed, with " kickite " appetites, their welcome repast, and the debris having been removed, Mr J. C. Grierson (captain of the Waipa team), rose to propose the toast of "The Cambridge Team," coupled with the name of their captain (Mr Moore). In proposing i the toast, Mr Grierson said he felt proud of the position he held that day, and iv meeting such friendly, but at the same determined opponents as the Cambridge team had invariably been at their favorite game. He was proud in having beaten them at last at the headquarters of the Club. He thought that the two Clubs united would be able to give a good account of themselves against an interprovincial team had they an opportunity. Th° toast was received with musical honors and cheers that shook the house, with one more for the captain. Mr Moore, in responding, thanked the Waipa team for the most cordial reception they had given them that day. They were perfectly satisfied with what they received at headquarters, with the exception of one thing — the weather — and that had been very bad indeed. He would call upon them to drink " The Health of the Waipa Team." The toast was received with musical honors. Mr Cotton (Cambridge) proposed "The Health of the Umpires." They had in one sense the most "arduous duties to perform in the match played that day, and' he believed they had given entire satisf iction to both parties. He hoped, however, to meet them some day when their decision would be reversed from that of to-day. Messrs Kayll and Conneli responded in a few well-chosen words. Mr Cotton in proposing the next toast said it was one that was frequently proposed at the wind up of pleasant parties, that of the host and hostess : but on this occasion it gave him unusual pleasure to propose. They had met the Waipa and other teams on various occasions at dittcreut/ jj]<3,ce«, Iml muvi;i brfoie had they had such a spread as they h.id done justice to that evening. He had great pleasure in proposing " The Health of JNj r and Mrs Finch and all the young Finches." Reeeh ed with cheevs and musical honors. Mr George Finch, as one of (he little Finches, very aptly returned thanks on behalf of his parents. Songs and conviviality succeeded for a short time, and at 8 o'clock in the evening the \ isitoivs, to general regret, withstanding the mo-,fc pressing solicitations to reiuaia till morning, left, tinder rounds of cheering and good wishes.