MANGAPAI.

Daily Southern Cross, Volume XXIII, Issue 3019, 30 March 1867, Page 5

MANGAPAI.

Our correspondent sends us particulars of a very interesting soiree, held in the Presbyterian church a few days ago, which was largely attended. There were about one hundred and twenty persons present, some being from Wangarej, Otaika, &c. The vocal and instrumental music would have done credit to any settlement. The Rev, Mr. Gorrie delighted his friends by appearing in greatly improyed health. Our correspondent continues — " One phase in the slight sketch I make, I mußfc ask you to notice— more particularly as it indicates a deep feeling of its cause— *nd that is, the introduction In such an assembly of any political Question. The unjust treatment of the norchern portion oE this province was mooted by the Chairman, the Rev. Mr. Gorrie ; more strongly dwelt on by the Wesleyan missionary, Mr. Smith ; and gave atone to the speeches of others. Indeed, it is a fruitful theme in every assemblage, small or large, just now, and seemsto be culminating in some resolve farther nortb. "Mr. Smith, Wesleyan missionary, dilated on the beneficial effects of female influence ia families, legislature, &c. , and illustrated the latter by humorous anecdotes. He pointed out the great moral and social good of congregational concordance in religious truths, but denied the necessity or advisability of , conformity in -particular And minor observances, and adduced cogent argumejffs in favour of his views " Want of education was the theme of one; local improvements by union, that of another. Mr. D. Wilson entertained and instructed us by a very concise and explicit history of the settlement and occupation of this country by the Maori, in which he furnished some new ideas derived from his intimate connection with the JNgapuhis. Mr. Millar, with his usual grave humour, kept his audience in a I roar of laughter by his delineation of a bachelor's life ; and Mr. Harkisa gave an account of hi* intended stewardship of the funds. " I ahould at least pay my meed of thanks to the Wan^arei quartette, who sang during the evening selected pieces of sacred music in a manner displaying taste, training, and capability. Mrs. Wilson lent her harmonium (a beautiful instrument, made, I believe, by her father, Mr. Hewlett, our former teacher here), which was admirably used and accompanied by her sister, Miss Hewlett."

What kind of * plant doei a "duck oU 'm*" xewmblQ ?— Mandrake,