CONSULAR GUESTS

Dominion, Volume 32, Issue 258, 29 July 1939, Page 6

CONSULAR GUESTS

Y.W.C.A. French Club Holds Banquet

M. Andre PouqueL Consul for France, and Madame Bouquet, were special guests of honour at a Y W.C.A. banquet in Wellington last night in a combined celebration to mark the French group's first birthday and the French National Day, July 14. The evening was a great success, and in keeping witli the occasion French was spoken all the time. Numerous toasts were given, and the toast mistress was Miss Valerie Vercoe, president of the group. .Madame R. Finlayson, group leader, and Miss E. M. Bennell, stall’ secretary, assisted Miss Vcreoe to receive the guests. Miss Vercoe’s toast, “The King,” was responded to with “July 14,” by Miss Jeanette Turnpenny, and replied to by M. Bouquet. The toast of kindred clubs was proposed by Madame Finlayson and responded to by Miss Joan Drury. Miss Bennell, toasting the club, mentioned the knowledge of languages as an aid to a better understanding between nations, and Miss Bunry Butler, in reply, outlined the objects and work of the Y.W.C.A. French Group. A French play was a feature of the evening, and a minuet item and songs by members were greatly enjoyed. Members brought friends with them to the banquet, and other guests of honour included Madame I-ogre, Misses E. Bell, Kissling and Ward.