Matakanui.

Alexandra Herald and Central Otago Gazette, Issue 365, 7 May 1903, Page 5

Matakanui.

(From our own correspondent).

The social in aid of the school funds being postponed on account of the death of Messrs 0. Mellor, it was decided, rather than disappoint the children, to have their concert, and for that purpose a large number of parents and friends assembled in the schoolroom on Friday evening last. To the great delight of all present an excellent programme was gone through. The children of the infant room gave splendid'renderings of a number of action songs, and fully deserved the applause they got. Miss May Duggan, a tiny tot of about seven summers, surprised the audience with her sweet little voice in the song " Won't you come to my tea party," and was vociferously encored. The duet M I don't want to play in your yard," by the Misses J. Hamilton and J. Sheppard, had also to be repeated. Miss Vera Sheppard and Miss Emily James gave a recitation each, anl all were thoroughly pleased with these items from such little girls. The palm of the evening, however, must be given to Masters Naylor, Berry, Moran, and Duggan, for their recitation " What I mean to be." Mr Laidlaw occupied the chair, and at the conclusion of the programme spoke in eulogistic terms of the work done by Miss Hoffmann in bringing the children to such a stage of excellence. He had no idea that such talent was in the school, and was sorry that the programme was so short. The people of the district have to thank Miss Hoffmann for all the trouble she has taken with the children, and at the social will have an opportunity of hearing the children in a more lengthy programme. Later. The social has been postponed until June 12th., and ticket holders will then have a chance of getting full value for their money. A large audience is expected, as the money is going for a shelter shed, which is very much required.