DRUIDS' BALL.

Auckland Star, Volume XVIII, Issue 270, 16 November 1887, Page 5

DRUIDS' BALL.

The anniversary of the Auckland and Ponsonby Lodges, U.A.0.D., was celebrated last evening, in the Masonic Hall, Princes-street. There were about 60 couples present, and the proceeding, throughout were most enjoyable. The music was supplied by Messrs Reed and Davis's band, and was appreciated to such an extent that encores were demanded. During the evening several lady and gentleman amateurs favoured with songs and extra dance music, the Reel o' Tulloch being a feature in the proceedings. The hall was tastefully decorated with flags and emblems of the Order, one of which (a representation of a Druid, done by Brother W. Blomfield) attracted much attention. The ball opened with- the Druids' March, in which the brethren appeared in Druidical costume. Mr G. Powley, as M.C., surpassed himself in promoting the comfort of those present. The committee consisted of Messrs A. Kidd, D.P., W. Jennings, J. Strathearn, J. Levy, P.A.s; S. Woods and E. Mace, A.D.'s ; and Brothers Beale and Paul. Mr H. D. Pike acted as hon. secretary to the committee. Mr Johnson catered in his usual careful manner. Representatives from the Rechabites, Foresters, Loyal United Friends, and Hibernian Society were present. In New Zealand there are 51 lodges, with a membership of 3,740, and the Funeral Fund of the Grand Lodge amounts fco the handsome sum of £15,000, which is so judiciously invested that it yields interest to the amount of £1,008 a year, At the last Grand Lodge meeting iv was stated that the annual charge of 6s paid by the lodges would very soon be abolished ; and the Druid friendly Benefit Society will then, claim that ib will give more benefits, at a cheaper quarterage, thaw Qvher kindred societies.

Wellington, this day.

At the R.M. Court Thomas Pinkeney, on a charge of embezzlement, was sentenced to six months' hard labour.

Mrs Wardell, wife of the R.M. here/died suddenly at Masterton this morning;- it is gwjmosed from heart disease.