BANQUET TO SIR J. HALL.

Press, Volume L, Issue 8596, 25 September 1893, Page 5

BANQUET TO SIR J. HALL.

(PKES3 ASSOCIATION TELEGRAM.)

WELLINGTON, September 24,

Sir John Hall having announced his intention of not again standing for the House of Representatives was entertained last night at a banquet in Bellamy's by the members of the party with whom he has long been connected. The dinner was of a private character, the Press not being inAll the members of the party except Messrs J. Mills, Fergus, Valentine, aud Buckland were present. The first-named trio are absent from Wellington, and the latter is ill, but all sent letters of apology. The Hons. Ormond, Oliiver, arid Bowen, M.L.C' 3, were present, as well as the Hon. Mr Bryce, Hon. Mr Hislop, and Mr A. S. Menteath. Mr Rolleston presided, and moved the toast of "Our Guest" iv a lengthy speech, regretting hi 3 retirement and referring to his long and honourable political career. Hβ also mentioned the successful achievement of female franchise as the crowning victory of Sir John Hall's career. Sir John replied, thanking the gentlemen with whom he had been connected for so many years for their expressions of good will, but said, though not contesting the next election, he would not say farewell. Mr Bryce proposed " The Opposition in the House of Representatives," to which Messrs Rolleston and Scobie Mackenzie replied. Captain Russell gave ,«* Orr Visitors,' , and the Hon. C. C. Bowen and Mr A. !?. Menteith replied. Mr Mitchelson proposed "The Parliament of New Zealand," and the Hon. Mr Oliver, M.L.C., Mi- George Hutchison and Mr Wright, M.H.R.S, replied. General regret was expressed at Sir John Hall's retirement, and the hope was entertained that if he did not again seek the suffrage of the electors his services would not be lost to another branch of the Legislature.

CABLE NEWS.