Milburn.

Bruce Herald, Volume XXXX, Issue 99, 30 December 1904, Page 5

Milburn.

(From Our Own Correspondent.) ' j^^ school break-up. The annual break-up ceremony in connection with the school took place on Friday evening, when there was a large attendance of parents and friends. It was evident that the fathers had kindly consented "to keep the house," the mothers were all along "to see the bairns get their books." Mr W. Grey occupied the chair, and wasted no time speechifying, but got at once to item No. I of the concert programme. This consisted of a pianoforte duet by Annie Smith and Pear* Mcllroy, and it was played with confidence the evident result of careful practice. Some fifteen little tots }hen merrily told us how each little star was "Winking and blinking." What might be" termed an alphabetical recitation was splendidly given by Maggie Scott. Four of the Senior pupils, arrayed in Japanese costume — with full compliment of fan and sunshade — essayed to enlighten us on the social and other qualities of the lively little Jap. With the assistance of a strong chorus, this item went very well. The infants had another innings, #nd scored largely with two songs entitled "My Dolly," and "Me-yow ! Me-yow !" Following this was an extra good recitation by a number of little lasses, who told of their likes and dislikes regarding; their domestic duties. A clever dialogue by the Senior pupils was given with neatness and precision, and an action song was also well received. The chairman then called on the Rev. G. Budd to come forward and distribute the prizes. A full list of the winners has already been published, but a number of books besides- those mentioned in your last issue were handed over to good boys and girls. These prizes were presented by Mr Budd for general results in an examination held in connection with the Bible Class held weekly in the day school. Mr Budd mentioned that the examination had proved very satisfactory. Results : — Excellent work and regular attendance, Mabel Brabyn. Ellen Brabyn, Maud Taylor, William Cowie and John Finch. Examination only — Pearl M'llroy, Minnie Robinson, John Somerville, Norman Smith, and Oswald Smith. Attendance only — Rodert Riddell, George Finch, James Cowie, Fannie Finch, and Alph Finch. After all the prizes had been presented, Mr Budd said he hoped the children would make use of the books they had received, and by lending and borrowing they would circulate a large amount of interesting literature. He wished them all a very happy holiday. After a short interval, a further supply of interesting and amusing items was rendered by the scholars. Grant Robinson gave a recitation in good style, and three readers, viz. — Eden Russell, G. Robinson, and John Vernon, gave a pleasing sample .of good accent and pronunciation. Mary Fryer, who had received first prize for the best reciter, gave " The Execution of Montrose " in a praise worthy way, and Annie Smitbsilso gave, a pleasing solo on the piano ; another song and chorus having [ been heard from the pupils, a clever and amusing dialogue was essayed .by Masters Cowie, Riddell, Fyfe and • Russell. This was undoubtedly one of the most interesting items of the evening, chairman Cowie especially excelling. A flower song, " Daisy " left a sweet perfume, and then the senior boys went rollicking with "'Dip boys, dip the oar?" The concluding concert item was given by Misses Smith (2), and Brabyn, who impersonated the "Three young (and old) maids of Lee." This proved to be the gem of the evening, and a repetition' was loudly demanded. Mr T. H. Russell gave a few parting words, and took occasion to mention the excellent report of the inspectors. He thought they should all be well satisfied with the good work being done by the teachers, and the splendid programme submitted that evening was proof plenteous that^ the master and mistress were both painstaking and proficient. He looked forward to seeing the performers of that evening taking part in the concerts of future years, and he was certain they would .always give a good account of themselves. He desired to thank the teachers for their excellent showing, Mr Budd for his .good work, the children for their splendid programme, and, finally, the chairman for his management of the meeting. It must not bet o tutted to ' mention that the accompaniments of the evening were effectively placed by Miss Budd and Mise Jessie Smith.