VALEDICTORY.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume I, Issue 203, 1 October 1914, Page 11

VALEDICTORY.

A pleasant function took place at the Chief Telegraph Office yesterday afternoon, when Mr Reginald Atkinson, senior telephone exchange clerk, was entertained at afternoon tea by the ladies of the Exchange, and presented with a handsome gold watch and chain, subscribed to by all branches of the local office, on the occasion of his retirement from the service on superannuation. Mr A. J. C. Talbot, in making the presentation, referred to the fact that Mr Atkinson had been over 35 years in the service, and out of that time he was over 33 years in charge of the Christchurch Exchange. The Christchurch Exchange was the first exchange opened in New Zealand, and Mr Atkinson was placed in charge, and, therefore, to him belonged the honour of being the first officer in charge of the first exchange opened in New Zealand. Mr Atkinson had performed his responsible duties in a highly satisfactory and capableVianner, and in leaving the service he was taking with him ,the good opinion of the head of the Department and the esteem of all his brother-offi-cers.

Miss Hbucheu, who has been associated with Mr Atkinson, for many years, said that she could hardly say how much all the girls had appreciated Mr Atkinson's guidance and friendly counsel, and she felt sure that without his kindly influence and gentlemanly bearing many of the girls would have found their position at times very hard. Mr Atkinson, in responding, thanked all for their kind wishes and handsome present, and assured them that their kindness was greatly appreciated. He then dwelt on the olden days of the exchange, and gave a very interesting account of things which happened 35 years ago. Three hearty cheers were then given for Mr Atkinson, and the meeting dispersed.