ALTON.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume X, Issue 1926, 10 May 1888, Page 2

ALTON.

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENTS.)

A meeting, convened by Mr. J. Hurley, for the purpose of organising a temperance society in this place, was held in the new schoolroom on Wednesday evening last. The number present must have been very gratifying to the promoter of the meeting, as well as those interested generally in temperance work. After the preliminary matter of appointing a chairman and secretary for the evening had been arranged, the chairman (Mr. D. Smith) gave a sbort address on the general aspect of the temperance movement, referring more particularly to tbe gigantic strides which it had made since he had signed the pledge 40 years ago. He then called on Mr. Hurley to explain the object of the meeting. Mr. Hurley, in » neat address, Bhowed the necessity that, in his opinion, existed for and the advantages of such a society. He further explained the nature of the society which he wished to see formed . adding that as the school committee had kindly placed at his disposal the old school building in which to bold their meetings no expenses would be incurred further than that necessary for procuring light and firewood. The remainder of the evening was spent in singing and readings. Mr. Hurley contributed a very enjoyable reading in the' shape of a biographical sketch of Father Matthew. .JTbis portion of the programme having been gone through, the chairman invited anyone present to give bis views on the real 'subject before the meeting. Finally it was decided that such a society should be formed, and that the meetings in connection with it should be held weekly. A very urgent appeal was then made to those present to come forward aud sign the pledge, when a considerable number responded. The Hinging of the doxology brought the meeting to a close. May 8.