OWAKA.

Clutha Leader, Volume XXXVI, Issue 40, 2 November 1909, Page 3

OWAKA.

(From Our Own Correspondent.)

After some days of very gusty weather things seem more settled to-day, and we trust will continue so. Wo experienced several rather severe frosts which blackened the potato tops and damaged the fruit trees to a large extent. However, everything is looking nice and green, arid pasture is getting plentiful. Our school has closed for an indefinite time, owing to so much sickness in the district, especially among children.' Whether the trouble is scarlet fever or not seems to be an undecided question; but certain it is that an epedemic of some such kind is going the rounds, and has made a great stir in the district. lam sorry to have to record the death of the eldest daughter of Mr Oliver Osborne, .iun., from the trouble referred to. The little girl was 11 years of age, and very much sympathy is felt in the district for her bereaved parents and friends.

The ambulance exam, was held in the social room of . the library building on Saturday evening, 23rd., Owing to illness, several members were) prevented from attending, so thd number sitting was smaller than usual. Mr D. Wratten was appointed supervisor, and Dr Stenhouse examined the practical work. Dr Line, the lecturer, was also present. After the exam was over a social cup of tea was enjoyed by all, and Mr Brand (chairman for the class), presented Dr Line with a handsome silk umbrella, as a small token of esteem and appreciat'oll from the class. Mr Brand spoke of the self-denying efforts of the doctor in delivering his very instructive lectures to the two classes—first aid and nursing. Dr Line suitably responded, saying he was taken by surprise, and did not expect any reward. Mr Brand also thanked Dr Stenhouse for his attendance that night. Another surprise awaited an old member of the class. Mrs M. Morton, who. has been a resident of the district for the last 20 years, has decided to join her husband in Clinton, where he has taken a number of building contracts. Mr and Mrs Morton expect to be away from the district for the next year or so at least, and it was decided by her old neighbours and friends to present her with a small parting gift. The present took the form of a handsome eider-down quilt. The subscriptions were not confined to the class, but were liberally supported by other friends who had received kindness at the hands of Mr and Mrs Morton, and who trust some day before long to welcome Mr and Mrs Morton back to the district where they will be so much missed.