Mr Fraser at Patangata.

Hastings Standard, Issue 176, 20 November 1896, Page 2

Mr Fraser at Patangata.

A LARGE GATHERING. (/' rum (tar thru ('iirrr><jiiiiul<'!it.) Mr Eraser addressed a crowded meeting at the Patangata schoolroom on Wednesday evening. The Elsthorpe settlers were in full force, also a number of people from Mangakuri, Tauiamui and outlying stations. The Wednesday afternoon at Patangata presented the appearance of a race meeting. Mr Harry Hardtree, who was voted to the chair, briefly introduced the candidate in a neat speech. Mr Eraser lost no time in getting to work, and for tw.o hours he reviewed the work done by the present Government. Past administrations, Cheviot Estate, lands for settlement, public debt, Customs, cheap money, banking legislation, were dealt with by the speaker in a clear and lucid manner, there being a complete absence of any personalities. From the beginning to the conclusion of his address Mr Eraser had the entire sympathy of his audience, and from the frequent burst of applause varied by occasional cheers showed clearly that the speaker's expressions were in striking unanimity with those present. A number of questions were put to Mr Eraser which were answered satisfactorily. Mr Haycock moved : " "Hint thi a meeting express a hearty vote of thanks to Mr Eraser for his able and instructive address, and renewed con fidence in the present Government.' Seconded by Mr Wedd and carried amidst cheers. A vote of thanks to the Chairman concluded the most successful meeting ever held at Patangata. During the day Mr Eraser visited the settlers on the Elstuorpe Estate, and was much surprised at the progress made in the settlement in such a short space of time.