VALEDICTORY.

Dunstan Times, Issue 3145, 27 November 1922, Page 5

VALEDICTORY.

A Popular Stationmaster Farewelled. On Wednesday, 15th inst., tlieir many friehds met in the Omakau Hall to bid farewell to Mr and Mrs Sexton and family, Mr Sexton having been appointed assistant relieving officer with headquarters at Dunedin. That the guests of the evening are extremely popular was evident, people being present from all parts of the district to do them honour, An apology for nonattendance was received from Mr H. E. Stevens, of Clyde, who wrote in high terms of praise of the departing guest. Dancing was indulged in and a recitation by Miss Leith, two songs by Mrs Sexton and a similar numjber by Mr Perkins being much enjoyed. Mr Clare occupied the chair and at a suitable interval presented Mr Sexton with a handssme solid leather suit neatly inscribed, and a travelling rug; and for Mrs Sexton an enveople of notes. In the course of his remarks Mr Clare referred to the excellent qualities of their guest. He said that in his official capacity Mr Sexton had met them in a most kindly manner and had made the regulations as light as possible. In asking him to accept the presents mentioned on behalf of the public he wished Mr and Mrs Sexton and family every success. Mr J. Percy, Matakantii, said that the "chairman had spoken chiefly regarding Mr Sexton—sentiments which he cordially but enough could not be said regarding the good qualities of Mrs Sexton. Mr Geo. Francis, Laudei, in a neat .speech referred to the many kindnesses extended to hi in as secretary of the Vincent Jockey Club. Mr Sexton was ready at all times to do any kindness or give advice He greatly appreciated Mr Sexton's kindly manner, and wished him and his every success. Mr John Wilson, Lauder, spoke in glowing terms of the active part taken by Mr Sexton in any work advanced for the welfare of the district. Although Mr Sexton had frequently collected demurrage lrom him, that showed his honesty to the department he served. Mr Taylor-Cannon endorsed the remarks of the previous speakers. Their guests had always taken an active part in the affairs "of the place and he hoped they'would carry on the good work whereever they went. Mr W. Gallagher (joint secretary with Mr Sexton of the Vincent Sports Club) asked Mr Sexton to accept a goldmounted pen, suitably inscribed, as a token of the esteem in which he was held by the Sports Club. Since his arrival Mr Sexton had taken a very active part and had worked strenuously in the club's interests. Mr Sexton on rising to reply was warmly received, He said that during his sojourn he had made many friends whom he regretted to leave. In his capacity as S.M, he had to satisfy the public as well as serve his department. From the "attendance and from the remarks of the speakers his labours had not been in vain. As far as the Sports Club and social life was concerned, Mrs Sexton and he had both tried to make themselves as useful as possible, but anything they had done had been a pleasure. He thanked them all for all their handsome presents and kind .remarks, and also for the unbounded kindness shown Mrs Sexton and himself since their arrival in Omakau. (Applause). A tasty supper was served and dancing was continued until 2 a.m. when Auld Lang Syne concluded a pleasant evening.