VALEDICTORY.

Lake Wakatip Mail, Issue 4230, 15 October 1935, Page 5

VALEDICTORY.

A POPULAR GIBBSTON RESIDENT

FAR DWELLED

A large number of friends assembled in the Gibbston schoolhouse on Friday evening last for the purpose of farewelling Miss Ettie Leslie, prior to her departure from Gibbston. The evening was devoted to card-playing and other games, and at a suitable interval a presentation was made to Miss Leslie.

Mr Joseph Miller, who presided, said that the large and representative gathering testified, better than any words he could say, to the high esteem in which Miss Leslie was held. They were all aware that, consequent on the recent death of her mother, Miss Leslie had disposed of the property to Mr D. Beaton, and she would be leaving Gibbston in a short time. Miss Leslie was the last remaining member in Gibbston of one of the oldest and most respected pioneer families which had been connected with the ups and down of Gibbston for over half a century, during which time they had held the respect and esteem of their neighbours. The Leslie family had been noted for their hospitality and kind neighbourly acts, and they Identified themselves with every movement which tended towards the welfare of Gibbston. No matter what gathering was hold in schoolhouse, the promoters could always depend on a Leslie being present to render assistance. Now that their little holding was merged with another, a blank would bo left which could never be filled. Miss Leslie had always taken her part in the social life of the community, and even during the last four or five years when she had the care of her invalid mother she seldom missed giving her help, lie could assure Miss Leslie that when she took her departure from Gibbston she would leave a host of friends and well-wishers behind her, who would would always be pleased to hear of her well-being. If she found it convenient to come back to renew old friendships or to view the scenes of her childhood days she would be assured of a warm welcome from every resident in Gibbston. On behalf of her Gibbston friends, Mr Miller then presented Miss Leslie with a lady’s handbag and toilet set as a small token of their respect and esteem, and said that the gifts carried with them the best wishes ol her many friends for her future success and happiness. Miss Leslie suitably returned thanks. During the evening much appreciated songs were contributed by MesJ. and D. Beaton. A bountiful supper was provided by the Gibbston ladies.