Band of Hope Meetings.

Mataura Ensign, Volume 17, 17 May 1895, Page 4

Band of Hope Meetings.

- » — Otaiia.— The first of the monthly meetings for the winter in connection with the Otama Band of Hope was held in the church on Tuesday night. Tne Eev. Mr Ramsay was in the chair, and there was a good attendance. The programme consisted of songs And recitations ! by the children, notable _^ongst whioh were a solo by Miss Logan and a duet by Miss Archibald and Master Jas. Stewart. The Chairman gave a humorous account of his trip to Like County, which was much enjoyed ; but as it was too long to give in its entirety, he promised to give a second instalment another time. Mr Dodds proposed a vote of tbanka to Mr Eamsay for his interesting lecture, and to the young people who had contributed songs and recitations, — whioh was heartily responded to. The meeting then closed with the Benediction. Waikaka Vallby.— Theopeniug meet* ing was held inthe church on Tuesday evening; the Rev. Mr Miller in the chair. There was a large gathering of the children, their parents, and friends— the largest the society has ever had. The programme was a long and interesting one, and was got through in good time. The choir sang several pieces. The children's part of the programme was very enjoyable : their pieces were well prepared, while the singing was excellent. The solos sung by the little girls especially were surprisingly well done. Much credit is due to Miss Cumming, for tbe excellent work the children did in singing, reciting, and repeating dialogues; and also to Mr Hunter, for the progress his pupils are making both in singing and playing. Six or seven new names were added to th« roll. Our correspondent adds:- A more enjoyable evening we have never had. The Valley Band of Hope is becoming quite a strong one, and we believe that it is doing, and will do, much good. We have great hopes of our young people growing up strong advocates of the Temperance cause. We do not aot on the principle that legislation is the cure-all ; but we believe that there must be a righteous public conscience behind it, which is the result of moral effort and education.