CHRISTMAS.

Lyttelton Times, Volume CXVII, Issue 17982, 26 December 1918, Page 4

CHRISTMAS.

FINE WEATHER IN TOWN.

Nor'-westers and sou'-westers early this week paved the way for absolutely ideal weather on Christmas Day. There were all the essentials of the weather that was required, and this fact was taken advantage of by many people to visit New Brighton, Sumner and the Cashmere Hills. In the afternoon there were exceptionally large number's of visitors to those places, and Cathedral Square for' a few hours was a busy scene while people boarded cars or returned by them. There were also many private motor trips to country districts, wnich just now are looking their best.. Services were. held, in the two cathedrals and in several churches, and were attended by large congregations. The only public fixture, the mterprovincial cricket match between Canterbury and Wellington, attracted an enthusiastic crowd of spectators to Hagley Park, and a surprisingly large sum of / money was collected on the grounds. , AT THE HOSPITAL. Although much of the joy of ChrisSma3 cannot bo shared by the sick and suffering, the real Christmas spirit was prominent at the Hospital. The matron and her staff worked hard to brighten the hours of the patients, and as far as circumstances and the condition of the sick would permit, full advantage was ' taken of the festive season. The wards were tastefully decorated with flowers, and there were many visitors during the afternoon. Owing, however, to the recent epidemic and a depleted staff, the usual Christmas tree could not be provided for the children, but full compensation war, made in other directions, and altogether the little ones spent a very happy time. Contributors of money or food delicacies will have the satisfaction of knowing that they have helped to make the festive season bright and happy for those who were compelled to spend Christmas away from their homes.

IN OTHER CENTRES. [Pes Press Association,] AUOKL/ U), December 25.

Great business .. as done in Auckland on Christmas Eve. Money was plentiful and shopkeepers did business immeasurably greater than on any previous "war Christmas."

BRISK BUSINESS IN SYDNEY,

A. and N.Z. Cable Association and Renter.

SYDNEY, December 24. The city is crowded with visitors and the shops are packed. Remarkable prosperity is evident from the volume of money spent. Prices of foodstuffs have soared to record heights. ,