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Press, Volume LVIII, Issue 17544, 28 August 1922, Page 8

WELCOME HOME.

MR P. S. NICHOLLS ENTERTAINED

Mr P. S. Nicholls, auctioneer, of this city, who has just returned from a health trip, the itinerary including Auckland, Fiji, and Honolulu, was entertained at dinner ait the Dorothy Lounge by his staff on Saturday evening. Mr G. W. Hervey presided, and besides the members of the staff several visitors were present. An excellent repast was supplied, and the function was a great'success. After the loyal toast had been honoured, Mr R. Blank proposed that of "The Guest of the Evening." In doing so. he paid a warm tribute to Mr Nioholl as a Bportsman and as' a man, and expressed the pleasure of those present at the great improvement the trip had made in Mr Nicholls's health. In responding, Mr Nicholls said he had greatly enjoyed his holiday, and was now fit and well. He expressed regret that the chairman of his send-off function (Mr F. C. Raphael) was unable to bo present, owing to ill-health, and he wisiied him a speedy recovery. With apologies to the gentleman who had said "See Naples and die," he would say. "See Honolulu and livelive there." Honolulu enjoyed a glorious climate, and the people were most hospitable. Notwithstanding the good time he had had, he was glad to be back in Christchurch among his friends. He complimented his staff —one and all —for the manner in which they had carried on during his absence, and took that opportunity to thank them most heartily for their efforts. Mr J. A, Rosie, on behalf of the staff, presented Mr H. 6. Coburn, manager, with a handsome fountain pen, in recognition of his kindness and courtesy to the employees. Mr Coburn suitably replied. Other toasts honoured were: "Canterbury Land Agents' Association," proposed by Mr P. Mansell and responded to by Mr E. J. Tayler, secretary of the Association; "The Staff," proposed by Mr Searell, responded to by Messrs Coburn and Mackenzie; "The visitors," by Mr Coburn-, responded to by Captain Hennessy and Mr Roylo • "Canterbury Representative Footballers," proposed by Mr C. D. Hayhurst, responded to by Mr J. Forsythe: "The Ladies" and "The Press." During the evening, Mr Jean Le Koi, magical entertainer ; gave a fine exhibition of sleight-ot-hand tricks, and, although ho had to perform in the midst of his audience, managed to thoroughly mystify them, his card manipulation being almo* uncanny. Captain Hennessy told some good 6tories ; his item "Why am I on my feet?" being especially su(xessful. Messrs "W. Inkster, J. llovle, P. S. Nicholls, and H. G. Coburn contributed songs, and Mr C. Inkster was the accompanist. Proceedings were brought to a close by the singing of "Auld Lang Syne."