FAREWELL TO MR. JNO. T. LEAFE.

Auckland Star, Volume XLI, Issue 142, 17 June 1910, Page 2

FAREWELL TO MR. JNO. T. LEAFE.

At the Albert-street Hall last evening the members of the Auckland Central Mission met for the purpose of farewelling the superintendent, Mr. John T. L«afe. The chair was taken by Mr. W. H. Smith, president of the Mission, who spoke of the work by Mr. Leafe during his stay in Auckland, laying stress on the straightforward character of Ms work, and the tact displayed by him in fulfilling his many duties. He regretted that circumstances made it necessary for Mr. Leafe to return to Great Britain (Mr. Leafe is to be married on reaching home). He called on Mr. T. Rowe to present Mr. Leafe with a leather portfolio, suitably inscribed, on behalf of the members. Mrs. Smith then handed to Mr. Leafe a Petone rug as a present from the ladies of the mission to his bride-elect, expressing the sorrow of the members at his departure.

Mr. Leafe, in responding, stated that he had at all times striven to do his duty, and touched briefly on his workin Great Britain, France, Kew South Wales, Norfolk Island, Fiji, America, etc. He bespoke a hearty reception for his successor, and foreshadowed a possible return to New Zealand.

Mr. J. J. Maeky also briefly spoke in connection with Mr. Leafe's work.

During the evening musical items were rendered by Messrs. Clark, Wood, Beswick, Willacy, and Green, refreshments being handed round at the close of the meeting.