A BEANFEAST.

New Zealand Times, Volume LVIX, Issue 3008, 21 December 1896, Page 2

A BEANFEAST.

The various classes of workmen engaged in the erection of tho Government Printing Office extension hold a beanfeast on Saturday last at the Marino Retreat Hotel, hoar Petone railway station. The outing proved moat enjoyable. A beanfeast differs from the ordinary picnic inasmuch as no ladies are present, and a • hot dinner and tea are provided during the. day, the excursionists, being thus kept together instead of wandering off into small parties, independent of each other. Cricket, quoits and other games were freely indulged in, the peculiar style exhibited by some of tho players causing roars of laughter and applause. Tho departmental officers, with the Minister ot Public Works, were invited, as well as the Premier and city and suburban Liberal members. The Premier attended the dinner, and, in response to the toast of his health, made a brief and interesting speech, and as Mr Soddou left, three cheers were given for him. Other toasts were also honoured. Mr and Mrs Barrett provided a splendid repast. In the evening a smoke concert took place, during which Mr and Mrs Barrett were heartily thanked as host and hostess. The party drove out and home in two of Mr J. Lane’s well-known brakes, the merchants and material contributing to the financial success of the day. Messrs H. Warner (chairman), I W. Lark (vice-chairman), J. Colo, J- P.iddy J and W. Colo formed .a hard-working committee,