REUNION OF VIOLA SHIPMATES

New Zealand Herald, Volume XL, Issue 12240, 8 April 1903, Page 7

REUNION OF VIOLA SHIPMATES

The 33th annual reunion of the Viola shipmates was held in the Papakura Public Hall on April 3, and notwithstanding the unfavourable weather it passed off successfully. There was a largo attendance, -250 persons being present. A good programme was provided, and it was also a financial success. The proceedings opened by a sumptuous repast of tea and other good things being liberally provided and fully enjoyed. The tables being cleared, the Rev. T. Norrie was called to the chair, and gave a congratulatory speech, which put the whole company into good humour, by reminding them of their general success in this good land, and how the doubtful forebodings of some of them had been dispelled by finding that their water was not only sure, but also their bread, and that their lines had fallen to them in pleasant places, and that they generally had a goodly heritage. They were, however, reminded that hero we have no continuing city, and the passing away of so many since their first arrival, and the fact that six of their shipmates had died during the past year was a call to bo diligent in using the means of grace so liberally provided, so as to prepare for a heavenly home. Reference was also made to the spreading of the olive branches into so many surrounding districts, and the happy homes being formed, in which the fair maidens had borne a conspicuous part. Mr. A. McLean followed with some humorous remarks, and said that he had now no wish to go Home, as he did not think he could endure the cold of the Home Country. Speeches being ended, Messrs. A. McKee and S. Smith, as M.C.'s, commenced their duties, and under their direction dancing was begun and kept up with great spirit until early morning of next day, the music being well supplied by Ballard Brothers. Songs were sung at intervals by Mesdames McLean and Porter, and Misses Johnson (2), Coghlan, Collins, and Messrs. A. McKee, Hicks, McIrityre, G. McDowell, and Ballard, and Mr. D - McKinstry, the secretary, testifies that they all had a very good night.—[Papakura Correspondent.]