TE AROHA. [FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.] Te Aroha, Friday.

Waikato Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2254, 18 December 1886, Page 2

TE AROHA. [FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.] Te Aroha, Friday.

A crowded house greeted the Fisk Jubilee Singeis on their first appearance in the Public Hall here on Wednesday evening. The fame of these tuneful representatives of a long oppressed race had evidently penetrated to the most out-of-the way corners, for the audience that assembled to listen to them was composed of residents from almost every part of this and the outlying districts, and even from Paproa and Morrinsville a few were present to avail themselves of the opportunity of listening to the sweet strains of these celebrated singers. Nor were they disappointed in their expectation of enjoying a rich musical treat, for it is doubtful whether an entertainment has ever been given in the township that afforded more genuine enjoyment. The programme comprised several of their most celebrated pieces including "Steal away to Jesus ;" "The Judgement d,iy h coming;" "Jingle Bells ;" and " Bright sparkles in the churchyard," all of which, as also the other numbers, were given vyith splendid effect. Two or three selections were likewise rendered by individual members of the company, " Glensing fires," by Miss M. Wilson and the song. "A hundred fathoms deep " by Mr Loudin, being especially noticable. In response to an encore the latter gave the laughing song, which was heartily received. It is in the choruses and part singing, however, that the company most excolis, and the rich blending of their voices produces a flood of harmony that never fails to captivate the ear. The audience on Wednesday evening expressed their pleasure by long and frequent bursts of applause. A second performance was given last night, and brought together a good house. The programme submitted was different from that of the previous evening, and included several favourite pieces, among which were " Keep me from sinking down," with the Lord's Prayer, " Angels waiting at the door," and "vSwing low, sweet chariot." These and the other numbers were all beautifully 1 endered, and afforded fcho audience gemntie enjoyment. The company will rest here till Monday, and will then proceed to the Thames. It has been arranged to have athletic sports here on Boxing Day. A sum of money sufficient to allow of fair prizes being offered is likely to be raised, aod a good day's amusement is expected. Morgan's paddock, as being the most central and convenient spot, will probably be chosen as the ground. The school holidays commence to.morrow. Owing to the pupils having been deprived of their week's freedom at Michaelmas by the nearness of the examination then, the time has been added to the Christmas holidays, and the school, consequently, breaks up a week earlier this year thau last.

Mr J. R, E. Hatrick announces that he has re-opened Kent House, Hamilton East, as a branch shop and notifies a reduction of 4s in the £ for gash,