THE ODD-FELLOW'S FESTIVAL.

New Zealander, Volume XXIV, Issue 2604, 17 February 1866, Page 3

THE ODD-FELLOW'S FESTIVAL.

On Wednesday last, tlie Independent Order of Odd-Fellows lield (heir annual outdoor festival, which proved a most decided success. It had been arranged that the ‘ Waitcmata ’ should be engaged, and that the party should take a trip with their wives and families to Brother Copland’s gardens at the Lake, North Shore. Shortly after nine o’clock, the brethren assembled, in lull regalia, at the Odd-Fellow’s Hall, and certain matters having been arranged, they proceeded to the wharf, headed by a most excellent hand, which played an inspiriting air during their march down Qneonslrect. On their arrival at the wharf it was discovered that the ‘ Waitcmata ’ was already crowded with whole bevies of the fair sex, who shone in most resplendent and gauzy attiretempted out in such strong numbers by the fineness of the day. However, full as the boat was, the members of the society swelled its number very considerably, but it was. quite impossible for the ‘ Waitcmata,’ all roomy as she is, to accommodate everyone—so that ultimately two cutters had to be engaged to take over the remainder. Then away they all went together round the North Head and into the bay where visitors arc landed for the Lake. Having once disembarked, fun was began in earnest, and kept up with grout glee until the dinner-bell rung at one o'clock, when a rush was made to the tables, which were amply provided with all the good things of this life, and to which ample justice was done by the hungry visitors—for their short voyage had raised their appetites. After dinner games of all kinds were again indulged in; but the votaries of Terpsicore were by far in the ascendant, and dancing 'vas kept up with great spirit until half-past five, when the assembly” was sounded, the procession was reformed, and away started the happy party tcross the isthmus to the steamer, which was waiting their arrival in shoal Bay. Ail were got safely on board, and were landed at the Qcven-street Wharf about eight o’clock, after having spent a most happy day. Brother Copland did everything that was possible towards the comfort of the visitants, and lie received thanks from all for the urbanity which he displayed. In the evening a hall look place in the OddFellow’s Hal), and wound up the day's amusement.