The Luncheon

Waikato Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 2672, 27 August 1889, Page 2

The Luncheon

An excellent luncheon was provided by tho Mayoress, Mrs Coates, and was laid nut in Coehrane's unoccupied brick shop, in Hamilton East. The tables were tastefully arranged and were laden with the best of viands and good things, both eatable and drinkable. The liberality of the Mayor and Mayoress, and the great interest they have taken in the celebration, aro highly commendable. About one hundred and twenty guests, including old soldieis, volunteers and other settlers, sat down. Apologies for being absent were received from Dr. Kenny, Col. Forbes and Rev. R. O'C. Biggs. In reply to a telegram sent by Mr John Knox, the following telegram was read from Mr J. B. Whyte:—"Many thanks for kindly greeting. Give my congratulations to old Waikato, ditto to young Waikato. I wish Hamilton and everyone in it every prosperity." After full justice had been done to the trood things before them, the Chairman (Capt. Steele) proposed the usual loyal toasts, which wero duly honoured. He then proposed "Tho Army, Navy and Volunteers." Capt. Mci'hersen, for the Army, responded, and after referring to his old regiment, the 93rd Highlanders, he spoke of his connection with the old -Ith Waikato, and the hardships of the early days of the colony. Capt. Reid responded for the Volunteers, and spoke of the importance now attached to that arm of the service. The Mayor proposed " The Pioneers," coupled with the name of Capt. Steele, and in felicitous terms gave a few sketches of his eariy experiences. Captain Steele, in responding, related many instances of the difficulties and privations they had to contend against twenty-live years ago, lie spoke of his old coiniades in the best of terms, and declared that none had ever shirked their duty. ColourSergeant Knox said he was proud to claim connection with theold 4th Waikato. He also had some old recollections to recount. S. Macquire, au old 4tli, also spoke of the old days, and oshers had a few words to say of things not yet forgotten. Mr T. G». Sandes proposed "'Wives and Bairns, which was responded to by Mr G. Edgecumbe. Mr Knox responded to Commercial Interests oE Hamilton, and Captain James Runciman to Agricultural Interests. Mr von Stunner, as the oldest journalist, acknowledged the toast of the Press. Tho Host and Hostess was proposed by Mr T. G. Sandes, and drunk with cheers. Games were indulged in on Sydney Square by the younger generation in the afternoon, and in the evening a social entertainment, consisting of songs, etc., was successfully negotiated in the Volunteer Hall, Hamilton West, and was kept up to a good hour, being much enjoyed by all present.