Our Wanganui Letter.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 995, 27 March 1891, Page 5

Our Wanganui Letter.

Dear Dora,—We had delightful weather here for the races. Consequently there were a great many visitors on the ground each dav. One gets a fine view of the course from the grand stand, and of the beautiful sleek horses as they move gracefully round on tho smooth green turf. There is a pretty lawn attaohed to the grand stand, in the centre of which a fountain sends up a clear spray of water, most refreshing to behold; whilst the band beat out in measured tones the notes of an enchanting waltz close by. Some of the ladies wore lovely dresses, the different shades of terracotta being quite remarkable. This is a favoured colour at present, and is very appropriate, too, for the season, as it is suggestive of autumn leaves. I notice the three-quarter length jackets are worn here now, but I can’t say that I care much for them. The Dobson-Kennedy Company closed a most successful season hero last week. They played several operas and dramas, chief among them all, I think, being the ‘ Shaughraun.’ Mr J. J. Kennedy, as Conn the Irish boy, was exceedingly good. He has evidently made a perfect study of Irish character parts, having the proper action to suit each word to perfection. The phonograph has come and gone again, leaving behind it an impression of lasting memory. For years we have all been familiar with the name of the great inventor, who lives at the other end of the world, and who from time to time has given to mankind some rare and wonderful discoveries. But it was only the other day that we were enabled to have, as it were, a living proof of his great work. Truly, there is something solemn in listening to the phonograph. One is reminded of the poet’s despairing cry, ‘ Oh, for the touch of a vanished hand, and a voice for ever hushed!’ Certainly, we have not got so far as the touch of the vanished hand, but the voice of the departed may be with us always. I read with pleasure your article on * Home Reading,’ and only wish that an association of the kind mentioned therein might be started here. Persons living in the country districts might, to make the programme more attractive, let the meetings take the form of socials, to be held on one evening every fortnight or every month. The entertainment could consist of songs, musical selections, readings, aud so forth. These little gatherings would become very popular, and friends could meet together for both amusement and instruction. Sally Brass.