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Lyttelton Times, Volume XXV, Issue 1636, 14 March 1866, Page 4 (Supplement)

Stormbird.—The Timaru Herald learns that the Racehorse Stormbird is not long to belong to Canterbury, as he has been re-pur-chased by his former owner, W. H. Harris, Esq., who intends taking him to Melbourne shortly. Belle of the Isle is to remain in the country, as her owner will, in all probability, run her for the champion race, in Christchurch next year. Grand Provincial Steeplechases.—Our sporting readers will be glad to learn that the arrangements fortheseexciting events are now concluded, most of the leading supporters of the Canterbury Turf having granted their warin concurrence. The programme must satisfy all, of the liberality and ability of the promoters of this intended grand annual cross-country meeting. We shall shortly refer more particularly to the various items " on the card." Testimonial.—On Monday last a numbef of gentlemen met at the Carlton Hotel to present Mr. J. li. Hill, manager of the bank of New South Wales, Christchurch, with a testimonial on the occasion of a contemplated visit on his part to England. Previous to the luncheon, at which Mr. Garrick presided, Mr. Slater acting as vice chairman, the former gentleman in a few well chosen words presented Mr. Hill with the following address, numerously signed, accompanied by a beautifully worked purse containing one hundred and fifty guineas. " Christchurch, Canterbury, N.Z., February, 1866; to James Richard Hill, Esq., manager of the bank of New South Wales at Christchurch. Dear -ir,—Having heard of your contemplated departure from amongst us on a visit to Europe, we avail ourselves of the opportunity to express to you our appreciation of your courteous and gentlemanly bearing as a bank manager, as also the pleasure wc have had in doing business with the bank of New South Wales, under your management, and would beg your acceptance of the accom- | panying purse of one hundred and fifty guineas, with the request that you will, upon your arrival in England, purchase some suitable memento to be held by you in remembrance of our esteem and friendship. Wishing you all the pleasure resulting from a voyage to the old country, and a speedy return amongst us to the resumption of your duties." Mr. Hill in reply expressed his sincere feeling of satisfaction at receiving so unexpected and gratifying a testimony of friendship, and took occasion to observe that while acting as a bank manager in Christchurch, he had never once had occasion to regret the abuse of his confidence. A very capital luncheon in Mr. Oram's best style helped to pass a most agreeable hour.