MR. R. T. WARNOCK.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 51, 1 March 1928, Page 11

MR. R. T. WARNOCK.

HIS BIRTHDAY GATHERING.

Scots Hall presented a pretty scene last evening, having been tastefully decorated for the birthday party of Mr. Robert Taylor Warnock. who, being borp on February 29, 84 years ago, claims that he has just come of age, counting by his four-yearly birthdays. Several hundred guests were present, including many friends of the early days of Auckland.

Just before supper Mr. W B. Leyland, on behalf of the guest*, congratulated Mr. Warnock upon his birthday. He said Mr. Warnock iird rendered efficient service to his fellow citizens, with rntiring energy and singli-ness of purpose. In business hie word was* his bond, and those who knew Mr. Warnock best admired him most.

The Rev. G. Coats tendcted congratulations on behalf of the younger generation amongst the guest*. "He will bathe," saicf Mr. Coats, "and he is a beggar to swim. I iiavo warned him it is time he did less of it. but he is still hale and hearty, as you see. He is a four-square man, and has rendered »good service to th? church of which he has so long been a member.

Mr. J. A. Warnock said his father wps naturally somewhat embarrassed, and had asked him to reply to the kind remarks of Mr. Leyland and the Rev. G. Coats. Of all the 300 or 400 passengers who were shipmates in the British Empire in 18G2, his father could only remember Mr. Mclntvre, of Onehunga, and Mr. John Massey as still living, Mr. Mclntyre was now over 90 years, and could not be present that evening. Mr. Warnock then read congratulatory letters conveying birthday greetings from the Hoii. .Sir Kdwin Mitchelson, M.L.C., the Hon. E. W. Alison, M.L.C., and Mr. Samuel Hesketh, three old friends who were not able to be present that vening. In conclusion, Mr. Warnock added: ''We are proud of our dad," which evoked loud applause. During the evening the Lyric Quartet contributed a number of items, which were evidently much enjoyed. Mu i • was also supplied by an orchestra, and the guests danced at interval*.