St. Andrew’s Ladies’ Guild

Manawatu Times, Volume 62, Issue 149, 25 June 1937, Page 14

St. Andrew’s Ladies’ Guild

MRS. E. T. McKAIN, THE SPEAKER St. Andrew’s hall presented a charming appearance yesterday afternoon when St. Andrew’s Ladies’ Guild held their monthly meeting, Mrs. M. Aitchison presiding. Bowls of bright berries, foliage and hydrangeas formed an effective setting on the stage, while vases of snowdrops, irises, early jonquils and greenery were arranged on the gay bordered table cloths. These floral decorations were the work of Mrs. J. Gilland. The president extended a welcome to all present, both tho members and visitors. An enjoyable programme opened with vocal solos by Mrs. Doel, “Annie Laurie,” “To a Miniature,” “Vale.” Miss I. Clark also delighted with vocal solos, “ Southern Mammy’s Lullaby” and “The Cuckoo Clock,” the accompanist being Mrs. R. Donald. The door hostesses for the afternoon were Mesdames J. A. Mitchell, J. Callesen, and ladies who served afternoon tea were Mesdames R. Donald, A. M. Spilman, J. Butcher, F. Weston, W. Dempsey, C. A. Grant, D. Millar, A. Worboys, W. Hunter, Misses Hopwood and Mathieson. The speaker for the atternoon was Mrs. E. T. McKain, whose talk on “Belgium Customs” created much interest. At the outset the speaker gave a vivid description of Belgium with its beautiful seaside at Ostend; tho city of Ypres with the Menin Gate erected in memory of those who fell during the Great War; Bruges, termed “The Venice of the North,” -where exquisitely fine lace was still made by old ladies sitting on their doorsteps; Brussels, the capital city, and several other interesting old towns and ports in Belgium. Eulogistic reference was made to the late Queen Astrid who was so vitally interested in the welfare of her country. Mrs. McKain stressed the great cleanliness of Belgian cities and homes and of the thrift of tho people of that country. The customs of Belgium in contrast to thoso of New Zealand were discussed at length, and the various practical methods of cooking and laundering outlined by the speaker. Concluding her address, Mrs. McKain urged that all should support the League of Nations, which -was so necessary to the peace of the world. On tho motion of Miss Mathieson a hearty vote of thanks was accorded Mrs. McKain. Mrs. Aitchison thanked Mrs. Doel and Miss Clark for their pleasing items and the hostesses who had contributed to the success of the afternoon. Boforo closing the meeting opportunity was taken by the president to bid “bon voyage” to Mrs. A. Hopwood, who, with Mr. Hopwood, leaves shortly for an extended holiday to Japan. On behalf of the ladies of the guild Mrs. Aitchison extended best wishes for a very pleasant journey in that country.