WEELINGTON TABLE TALK

New Zealand Mail, 22 January 1902, Page 19

WEELINGTON TABLE TALK

(BY ERIE.)

There was a grim reality in the asasrtions so vigorously endorsed by the multitude at the patriotic meeting that we were ready to send yet more men to South Africa if it were necessary. More than one mother and sister with streaming eyes joined in the applause. Within a week' many women will have to say good-bye to some who are dear to them, and so give most pathetic evidance of the genuineness of their will to serve the Empire. When a sacrifice is in the far distance it is easier to acc?[)t it. but this one is close at hand, and yet we are willingly making it. Such a refutation of the lies of oui enemies is more powerful than any “resolutions" we can send out to the world. Nothing was undertaken lightly or unadvisedly by the women of the meeting, and we shall fulfil our promise, though it means almost a martyrdom to us to spare the best we have left. The thousand brave women who will suffer parting this week have our sincere sympathy and admiration.

On Wednesday Mr and Mrs Martin Kennedy entertained the whole of the children from the Catholic Orphanage, Thorndon, in their beautiful grounds near Kelburne Park. Every preparation for the young folks’ pleasure and comfort had ' been most- liberally made. There were games of all sorts and prizes provided. It was fortunate that a large marquee had been put up for meals, as rain came on during the afternoon, to the regret of all. Aunt Sally and races and every indoor amusement was had recourse to. A present of a toy and a bag of sweets was handed to each happy child. The children also enjoyed singing their part songs. It is surprising hoiv well their fresh little voices are trained. Perhaps few realise what such a delightful day’s outing means to children for whom life has comparatively so few pleasures. -Mr and Mrs Kennedy and their family were assisted by a band of friends, who were most willing workers in sharing the trouble and fatigue of such a big children’s party. Much has to he freely given besides money to ensure the success of such an entertainment, and this was made a real ‘rod letter day” to the children.

Mi,s Alice Johnston’s wedding is fixed for Wednesday, the 29th inst., at St. Marys, Karori. Mr and Mrs Johnston fill have a large garden party at their beautiful residence, Holmwood, after tha ceremony. The bridesmaids will be two sisters of the bride, and Miss Flora Brandon and Miss Iris Bell. /Mr Kenneth Duncan will be bast man to his brother. It is hoped that Miss Johnston, aunt to the bride, will arrive from England in time to be present at the v/edding.

Ihero is a rumour that possibly Mr and Mrs Holworthy (Lady Buckley) may Pay a visit to Wellington shortly. A great many warm welcomes are awaiting them if such is the case. A very wuie circle of friends are hoping there is truth in the rumour. ‘ • *

The people of St. Thomas’s parish are exceedingly sorry they have had to he disappointed in the hope they had of «“> E «'-. O. Tidsdall as their . rh , ey sori 'y because the reason is that Mr Tidsdall’s health will , h . im to undertake so much mk as their scattered parish entails. locum tl' Mr , Com l )ton > who has been uk/ v nS i f ° r 1 SOmc months > is leav- ,* or England at the end of this sorrv iiiff nC \ + the parishioners are very sorry indeed to part with him. * ft »

Mrs Edwin has gone to Wanganui for a visit to friends there.

• * * * > Miss Geraldine Fitz Gerald has been spending part of her holidays with some Wellington relations. * * • * ■

Miss Iv. Mason returned from her lengthened visit to England by the Westralia on Wednesday. * * * * 4

Miss Halle Hewitt, daughter of Captain Hewitt, R.N., has been in town during the holidays.

*» * » * • * Kirs Arthur Martin (Wairarapa) is staying at Titahi Bay with her family. All the houses at the Bay are full to overflowing at the present time, and the accommodation house is engaged for a long time ahead. Many are waiting for rooms booked for next month. This little bit. of seaside has sprung into great favour quite suddenly, and a stay there is very greatly enjoyed by people lucky enough to get to it.

* * * * * Miss B. Fitz Gerald has gone to Brancepeth for a visit to Mr and Mrs Hugh Beetham.

* » • • • A lady who travelled out from England in the Himalaya to Sydney with our new Commandant and Mrs Babbington says the Colonel is an exceedingly flue-looking man, and very dignified and courteous in his manner. Mrs Babbington is bringing her French maid with her.

Mrs McEwan has returned from her pleasant visit to her husband’s relations in Canada.

Mr Lloyd Hassell. Engineer-in-Chief in Queensland, has with his wife been on a visit to his brother,. Dr Hassell, of the Asylum.

The Misses Harding have gone to Wanganui on a visit to Mrs Tavener.

Mr and Mrs Godfrey Pharazyn have gone to the southern lakes for their wedding trip.

The booking of seats for the Broughs’ opening week is phenomenal, as both the plays are quite new to Wellington, and have been well received everywhere they have been put on. Our friends the Broughs always have a warm welcome when they come to us.