HAWERA SCOTTISH SOCIETY.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 23 July 1924, Page 5

HAWERA SCOTTISH SOCIETY.

AN ENJOYABLE GATHERING. The Hawera Scottish Society held its usual monthly gathering in 'the Foresters’ Hall last evening, when Chieftain W. (j. Simpson presided over a' very large number of members and friends. Several visitors were present, including members of the Eltliam Pipe Band. A very good programme had been prepared and found a most enthusiastic response in the hearts of the audience. There oanont be any doubt that these meetings do a great- deal in fostering a. Jove of Scottish song, poetry and tradition among the younger people, and the Society is proceeding along right lines in developing these characteristics of Scottish life. In the choir and orchestra the Society possess great assets, and the members of both are capable and keen, and their work reaches a very high standard. Mr ,T. McConnell is an enthusiast and spares no effort in making that side of the Society’s life a great success. The items rendered by the orchestra, and choir are, always looked forward to witli pleasure and very materially contributed to the harmony of last night’s proceedings. Mrs Cate scored a success in “My Ain Folk,’’ and Mrs D, G. Smart also made a hit with “Jeannie’s Baw r bee. ” Mr Laidlaw gave a couple of character studies in good style, and Mr Hall two elocutionary items. Mr Lester played two items on the ’cello, which were very enthusiastically received. Highland dances and the Sailor’s Hornpipe were given bv Misses Robinson and Walker. Mr D. G. Smart gave an address on “Scottish songs and their influence on the lives of the people.’’ He dealt very fully with the vast field covered bv the- various authors and traced the stages through the ancient ballads, Allan Ramsay, Ferguson, and Thomson, to Burns, where the lyrical gift reached its culminating point. Well chosen examples wore given ami the lecturer must be congratulated on the success of his work. A summary of the address will appear at'a later date. A special feature of the evening urns the “haggis,” which was brought in escorted by the pi pci's iu most approved style. Chieftain Simpson did the carving, while Mr D. McCormick declaimed the “Ode to a Haggis.” A most enjoyable evening was brought to a close with dancing and the singing of “Auld Lang Syne.”