AN OLD COLONIST.

Dominion, Volume 1, Issue 195, 12 May 1908, Page 10

AN OLD COLONIST.

PRESENTATION TO MR. H. GABY, SEN. Oil Sunday evening last, after the evening service at Kilbiniio Churchrooni, Mr: Herbert Gaby, sen., who is'leaving for England, after spending some 54 years in New Zealand, was tho recipient of a handsome pair of field glasses and' a silver-mounted ebony walking stick of unique design, all suitably engraved. Mr. H. A. Hugjjins,"who made the presentation, said that he had been asked by the vestry, on behalf of the Church-people of.Kilbirnio, to tell Mr. Grfbythat they could' not let him leave without somo small token of' their goodwill and estec-m. Mr. Gaby had never spared himself <in his work for tho 'Church,' and at all times and soasons had been found ready to give ; valuable assistance. Ho had, during his 45 years as a licensed lay-reader, . been indeed a minister for good, doing his -work without thought of earthly reward. During his fen years' residence in Kilbirnie he had actively co-operated with those upon whom the major responsibility had fallen. They hoped that, when worshipping ii\ some ~of tho beautiful cathedrals and churches :bf England, ho would not entirely forget their littlo village clnirch, with its simple ' and hearty services. Not only Mr. Gaby, but' his family,-also, had rendered invaluable assistance to tho church, both how and at times when it was small and struggling. In wishing him God : spced and many years of happiness, he was sure that it was tho wish and prayer of all that , he should be abundantly blessed in mind, body, and estate. . Mr. Gaby, who was taken completely by; surpriso,' in a few feeling words thanked tho Church-people for their kindness. _ A lettor was read from the Vicar, who_ is away holiday-making, apologising for his absence,' and 1 bearing testimony to the valued assistance received from Mr. Gaby. • , Mr. Gaby,'who"is a well-known citizen, has :recently 0 retired from business,''and, after giyiiK; tho best years of life helping to build up, the industries of-the Domitupnrjris. this month, at' 75 years of ago, returning'to'the Old Country, which lie left, in his early manhood! ' ' '• ■' '.'