PATRIOTIC MEETING AT ST. BATHANS.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 11659, 16 February 1900, Page 5

PATRIOTIC MEETING AT ST. BATHANS.

The meeting called at St. Bathan's for Tuesday evening by Messrs Pyle and M'Connoc'hie, the •" local representatives of the Organising Committee, wag but poorly attended, owing to the inclemency of the weather, but the rain did not damp the enthusiasm of those present. Mr Pyle. on being voted to the chair, made a stirring patriotic speech, concluding by appealing to St. Bathans.residents to fully equip two or more volunteers for the fourth contingent. . Mr M'Connochie spoke briefly, and concluded amidst applause by stating that he would subscribe five guineas. • On the motion of Mr Wade, it was resolved to raise £60 to equip tM'o volunteers, and defray the expenses of aspirants anxious to go to South Africa who might fail.to pass. There was. some suggestion about canvassing the district, but the chairman would not hear of it.. The occasion was urgent, and he would open a subscription list at once with Mr M'Connochie's five guineas, and would place the same amount after his own name. This announcement was greeted with cheers, and in less than 15 minutes the list showed contributions totalling £53 14s. .In addition. Messrs P. Dillon and P.: Fitzpatriek donated a horse each. There were five volunteers in tho room—iramcly, .T. Dungey. A. Thurlow, T. Mee. A. Ferguson, and V. Dillon. Messrs Thurlow and Mcc will find their own horses. The next day those who had not attended the meeting were given a chance to subscribe, and our correspondent reports that when the mail closed' the. total was £65 ss. Great enthusiasm prevailed throughout the menthior, and Mr Pyle 'is entitled., to great praise for his energy and for the manner in which he handled the meeting.