FESTIVE GATHERING AT HAKARU.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXIII, Issue 10084, 20 March 1896, Page 6

FESTIVE GATHERING AT HAKARU.

On March 13, an unusually joyous and interesting circumstance occurred at Hakaru, which was participated in by close upon 200 persons of both sexes. The interesting event being 110 other than the coming of age of Mr. Samuel Sarah, the youngest son our deservedly popular friend, Mrs. Sarah, the enterprising hostess of the Cornish Arms Hotel. The friendly invitations issued by the above lady were almost beyoud count. Mrs. Sarah had made provision for a sumptuous entertainment regulated to suit the convenience and comfort of long standing friends of mature years. This interesting entertainment took the form of an attcruoor. tea in the dining and drawing rooms of Mrs. Sarah's new and handsome residence. Some idea of this lady's popularity, and the number of her friends might have been guessed at on viewing the one hundred and ten guests seated before tables laden with almost every delicacy of the season. Mrs. Sarah ami her amiable daughter, assisted by an ellicient staff of lady helps, devoted their whole attention to the needs and requirements oi the welcome guests, who in turn were not remiss in their expressions of gratitude to one of the kindest of hostesses At .the close of the day, and after a large number of the older guests had taken their departure, reinforcements arrived to take part in the remaining enjoyments. By the time it was dark the newcomers had footed up to 103 or more persons. To these the hall proved an irresistible magnet, where preparations for the inevitable dance had been completed. In a short time the floor of the building was in possession of the dancers, whose performances were accelerated by the strains of the violin, adroitly played by a local favourite, Mr. John Clark, his little eight-year-old daughter sweetly manipulating the piano. At frequent intervals during the night songs were introduced by way of variation. At midnight an elaborate supper was laid, and partaken of by the large company. At the finish, by request, Mr. T. W. IWsou look the chair, Mr. Leslie, jun„ acting as vice-chairman. After a short speech from the Chairman, the usual loyal t 'ust.s were proposed by the Chairman and Vice-chairman, and accompanied with musical honours. Sir. Dowsou, before proposing the toast of the evening, namely, "Tire Health of Mr. Samuel Sarah," briefly reviewed the life of Mr. Sarah, and spoke in commendation of the many good qualities which at all times distinguished him. Mr. Dowson concluded by wishing him long life, health, and happiness. Iho toast was greeted with loud cheers, and the singing of, "For he is a Jolly Good Fellow." Mr. S. Sarah thanked the assemblage for the kind feeling shown to himself and the goodwill evinced towards his mother. Mr. Leslie, junr., proposed the healths of Mrs. Surah and family, which was received with ringing cheers. This brought to a close a very pleasaut gathering of friends.—[Kaiwaka Correspondent.]