VALEDICTORY.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LXI, Issue 194, 18 July 1941, Page 6

VALEDICTORY.

MR T. SIMPSON*

After being for 50 years a commercial traveller, Mr T. Simpson, a popular figure in business circles in Palmerston North, has decided to retire, and at a function held last evening was the recipient of a presentation lrom his fellow travellers and associates. Mr R. A. Metcalfe, president of the local branch of the Commercial Travellers' Association, presided over a large gathering. Mr Metcalfe, in proposing the toast to the guest of honour, said that Mr Simpson started his career as a traveller when 1G years of age in Manchester. England, arid was stationed there tor 2:5 yeurs. In 1913 ho came to New Zealand under contract to a AVcllington firm for 12 months and had been here ever since. He was a foundation member of the Christchurch Commercial Travellers' Association and enjoyed wide popularity. The chairman presented Mr Simpson with an electric toaster and a hot-water jug at the same time conveying good wishes from the branch. On behalf of the retailors in the city, Mr A. E. Lynch wished Mr Simpson many happy years of retirement In reply, Mr Simpson stated that it gave him great pleasure to see so manv present. He had been "on the road'" tor 50 years, but was now retiring and intended to live in Auckland. He had been in Palmerston North since 1915 and was leaving the city with many regrets. He recalled the davs when travelling had to be done with a horse and gig, and contrasted those times with the present modes oi transport. He thanked all concerned for the gilts, and said he knew his wife would also appreciate them. During the week presentations have been made to Mr Simpson by the staffs of the C. M. Ross Co., Ltd., the Premier Drapery Company, and Messrs Collinson and Cunninghame, Ltd.