Valedictory.

Alexandra Herald and Central Otago Gazette, Issue 352, 5 February 1903, Page 4

Valedictory.

FAREWELL BANQUET TO MR ROBT, GILKISON. On the eve of his departure from the district, Mr Robert Gilkison was entertained at a banquet, which was held in the Dunstan Hotel, Clyde, on Wednesday evening of last week. About 50 gentlemen were present, including representatives from all parts of the County, and Mr George Fache occupied the chair. In proposing the toast of the guest of the evening, the chairman expressed the regret that was felt throughout the district at the thought of losiii ;x such an estimable citizen as Mr Gilkison. He paid a high tribute to the ability of Mr Gilkison as a professional man; and to his worth as a citizen during the 17 years he had resided among them. It had been arranged to ask. Mr Gilkison's acceptance of a small present, as a token of esteem, from his friends. This would take the form of a handsome folding desk and a silver soup-tureen. Mrs Gilkison's loss, too, would be severely felt, and as a token of the high esteem in which she was held, it was proposed to ask het acceptance of a silver salver. Mr and Mrs Gilkison had endeared themselves to the whole community, and they took with them the kindest wishes of all.

The toast was drunk with musical honors. Messrs W. Laidlaw (Matakanui), L B Grimstone, W S Laidlaw, L Ryan (Alexandra), J Horn (Bannockbum), J Bodkin, S Welsford, and F Jeffery (Clyde) also spoke to the toast and referred to the estimable qualities of their guest, and to the great loss the district would sustain by Mr Gilkison's departure, Mr Gilkison replied in a feeling and lengthy speech. On behalf of himself and Mrs Gilkison, he thanked them cordially for their kind expressions, and for their beautiful presents, which would be treasured as mementos of the many good friends they left behind.

Other toasts appropriate to the occasion were duly honored, and a very enjoyable evening was brought to a close by the singing of "Auld Lang Syne."