PERSONAL ITEMS.

Mataura Ensign, 28 January 1920, Page 4

PERSONAL ITEMS.

A London message states, that Jaks. Plunket died as the result of haemorrhage of the stomach. Sir Thomas Mackenzie is sending a. wreath, . the background of which is composed of • the foliage of typical New Zealand plants, including ferns. A Christchurch message says: In connection with the death of Lord Plunket is is understood that? Masonic lodges of sorrow will bo held throughout Zealand,, and that the lodges will go into mourning neriod. ; A valedictory social was tendered at Ashburton to Mr J. Simpson on Saturday evening on the occasion of hif* severing his connection with the local branch of the National Morgage and Agency Company. Ltd., to take up the managership of the firm's Gore branch. Mr D. McDonnell presided over a large gathering of auot : oneers, stock agents, and farmers. Unanimous tribute was paid to the qualities of the> guest of the evening both in business and private life, anl his health was pledged with enthusiastic musical htoiars. Other toasts, were honored, and songs also contributed, to the enjoyment of the evening.

It is understood (says a Christchvirch Press Association telegram) that Dr. Herbert Chesson. District Health Officer for Canterbury, has been 'lent" to the Department of Extenrai Affairs, and has been appointed to the charge of all matters pertaining to public health and hospitals in British Samoa. Dr. Chesson will probably take up his new duties about the beginning of Mav. It is possible that Dr. Chesson will accompany the Parliamentary party on their visit to the islands. Regarding the permanent appontment of a Distrios Health Officer for Canterbury, ij is probable that Dr. Hughes, District Health Officer for Otago, will go to Christchurch.