Mr J. H. Dalton's Employees.
Observer, Rōrahi X, Putanga 585, 15 Poutūterangi 1890, Page 14
Mō tēnei niupepa
Mr J. H. Dalton's Employees.
PICNIC AT WAIHEKE. On Monday last, a glad day's outing was spent by the employees of the well known tailor, Mr J. H. Dalton, of ' Trousers for Nothing ' fame, who has recently obtained several prizes at the Duneclm Exhibition for the quality, style, and general excellence of his varied goods. This annual picnic is provided entirely by Mr Dalton, who supplies everything required in the shape of food, fun, and ferry. The married members of his staff have the privilege of inviting their families, and the unmarried I can invite their sister, cousin or a nearer and dearer one. Hence a goodly crowd of some 120 stepped on board the steamboat on Monday morning and steamed away to the Island of Waiheke. The spot chosen for landing was Maori Bay, where all disembarked about 11 i.w., and various games were carried on, which were well patronised. Others went roaming, botanising, or carrying on that universal problem known as mashing and spooning. It would be hard to tell which game was carried on with the greatest zest— rowing, sailing, swimming, racing, dancing, or kiss-in-the-ring, in the latter of which two or three dusky damsels took part. It would also be difficult to fix on the individual who was the happiest of the lot ; if it could be done, perchance Mr W. E. Dalton would receive the wreath of honour, for he was everywhere, never seemed to tire either in limb or lung, and contributed greatly to the enjoyment of all. Mrs Mere Nopo, one of the natives o£ the settlement, performed a dance, which was much appreciated. One set of races was worth imitation. Two prizes were offered by Messrs John Earle and Co., consisting of 61band 41b of tea. They were won by two rosy-cheeked maidens, who had to run the final heat over twice— the first being a dead heat, and the grand final being almost ditto. First, Miss Blanche Payne ; second, Miss Mary Inman. Great praise is due to Mrs Dalton, on whom fell the greatest part of the duty, by satisfying the wants of so large a family, especially as the invigorating sea breeze and the early breakfast had somewhat sharpened the appetite of most. A little before 7 o'clock embarkation commenced, but prior to starting, a vote of thanks was passed to Mr and Mrs Dalton for their generosity, which was carried with acclamation and musical honours. This vote was moved by Mr Hall, the head book-keeper of the firm, and seconded by Mr Baulf on behalf of the visitors. The moonlight trip home was most enjoyable. On reaching 1 the wharf, more acclamations were given to Mr and Mrs Dalton, with musical honours, and all wound up a jolly day by singing ' Auld Lang Syne ' and ' God Have the Queen.' A most pleasant and notable feature of these annual outings, given by Mr Dalton, is the evident cordial feeling that prevails between him and all his workers. This is doubtless the natural outcome of his policy of never overworking his employees, and always treating them in a liberal manner. Mr and Mrs Dalton took the lead in all the proceedings of Monday last, presided over the dinner table, and gave the picnic the appearance of a happy family gathering. The example might well be imitated.
