NORTH OTAGO

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23442, 5 March 1938, Page 20

NORTH OTAGO

ACTIVITIES OF THE DISTRICT

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT)

OAMARU BOXING ASSOCIATION

CHURCH OF CHRIST

ANNUAL MEETING Only members of the committee attended the annual meeting of the Oamaru Boxing Association on Thursday night, Mr A. E. Hodge (president) occupying the chair. The annual report and balance sheet, showing a surplus of £3O 18s 5d on the year's working, and a credit balance of £63 12s sd, were adopted Mr Hodge said that it had not been an easy year. There had been no amateur tournaments, which he would have liked to have seen, but sufficient entries had not been forthcoming. Fortunately they had had two good draw cards in Jenkin and Stirling. Jenkin had been booked up for three fights. The committee had worked well together, and had done everything possible to make it a successful year. He welcomed back to the committee Mr O. R. Wise, who had always been a good member, and paid a tribute to the work and enthusiasm of the secretary (Mr G. McLeod) during the past year. As the nominations for the officebearers did not exceed the number required, there was no election, and the positions were filled as follows:—President, Mr A. E. Hodge; vice-presi-dents, Dr Lenndx Douglas, Messrs D. Thomson and W. P. Reid; treasurer, Mr J. Moore; auditor, Mr R. Finch; secretary, Mr G. McLeod; committee, Messrs G. J. Sceats, W. Notman, H. Chalmers, W. Currie, R. Young, D. Wright, C. Jones, and O. R. Wise. The Timaru Association wrote suggesting a conference of representatives of the Christchurch, Rakaia, Ashburton, Timaru, Oamaru, and Otago Associations at Timaru this month, with a view to approaching Mr W. E. Parry (Minister of Internal Affairs) for some measure of support from the Government and to devise a system to avoid the clashing of dates of tournaments.— It was decided to support the proposal, and Messrs Hodge, Moore, Currie Wright and Thomson were appointed delegates for the local association. A vote of thanks was passed to the press. . Title Bout

OVERSEAS MAILS

It was reported that a match for the New Zealand welter-weight* title had been arranged for March 24, at Oamaru, between Stan Jenkin (Oamaru) and Jack Jarvis (Eltham), this being considered the best match in New Zealand at the present time. The following officials were appointed for the match:—Referee, Mr G. J. Sceats; judges—Messrs Thomson, Notman, Jones; announcer, Mr A. E. Hodge; timekeepers—Messrs Moore, Reid, James, Ball, and Dr L. Douglas; weights, Messrs Currie and Chalmers; gloves, Messrs Wright and Young; house manager, Mr O. R. Wise; Match Committee—Messrs Hodge, McLeod, Jones, Thomson, and Currie.

SCOUT NOTES

By SCOUTER Scoutmasters are again reminded of the necessity of applying to Dominion headquarters, Panama street, Wellington, for their winter study papers. Any Scouter requiring information on this point should communicate with the focal commissioner. The services of a cubmaster for a cub pack to be formed on the South Hill are required urgently. Previous experience is not essential, though desirable. SELECTING CAMP When 5 or 6 o'clock approaches it is time to look for a suitable spot to camp. Drop your pack and examine the place carefully. Clear the ground thoroughly of all scrub and hummocks, the latter by using the back of your axe like an adze. The cutting of tent pegs will next occupy your attention. These should be of substantial length, approximately 18 inches, in order to have a good hold on the earth. If you are in a closely-wooded district, erect the tent by a stout line through the ridge of the tent and tie the line to two standing trees. The guys may also be attached to the bases of standing timber. To do all this should not occupy more than 15 minutes. The question of a bed now arises, and should be dealt with immediately. This is best made by placing manuka tops like thatch, beginning from the foot of the bed, and covering the butts with the tips of the next row. Three layers of this are usually sufficient for the most fastidious camper. The springiness is surprising. Ground sheet and blankets will complete the bed. Your next step is to collect firewood, "dead from off a tree." Build a fireplace of stones or green Jogs, and place all-the supports for billies and pots in position, with the required amount of water in each. Stack the firewood nearby in a handy position, but do not light your fire. Your next item will be to unpack vour " grub boxes," make dough, clean fish, puncture fins, set your "table,'' arri open up dry rations. Now light your fire, and if you have done as directed, and you are worthy of the name of " camper," a small hot blaze directed against your utensils .will give you a hot meal in about 15 minutes. Camp pitched and a hot meal readv in half an hour! In cases of wet weather, the procedure is to erect the tent to keep the ground dry, or if the place is soaked build a fire on it to dry it out while the cooking is being done on a small fire nearby. Under some circumstances it might be advisable to place the tent up in the manner of a lean-to, and allow the heat of the camp fire to reflect into it. NO. 1 CUBS (S. PAUL'S) After Akela had called the pack from lairs for the Grand Howl and inspection of furs, Baloo gave a yarn on the Union Jack. This was followed by a short trip to the gasworks. On returning, Akela told a story, and several relays were rim off. The Grand Howl followed, after which the cubs disappeared into the jungle. On Saturday afternoon the pack made an excursion to Kakanui, where a very enjoyable time was spent. Thanks are extended to the commissioner and Mr D. S.' Bain for kindly lending their cars. NO. 1 TROOP (FEBRUARY 25) Ten boys paraded on Friday last under Assistant Scoutmaster Campbell. After the troop had mastered the rudiments of lashings, they were instructed in the uses of the scout staff. A game followed, and the meeting closed with prayers and the Scout promise. ' ST. LUKE'S TROOP There was a good attendance at the last parade of the St. Luke's Troop, and the Commissioner (Mr McGregor) paid a visit, and carried out the usual inspection. Two Scouts, A. Freeman and E. Chilcott, passed their tenderfoot tests, while several other boy? passed their second class Signalling took up the greater part of the evening, and after a hard ball game, the parade dismissed with the promise.

ANNUAL PICNIC The congregation of the Church of Christ held their annual picnic . at Glencoe recently, in perfect weather. Ice cream, which was kindly contributed by Mr Blackgrove. was much appreciated. A sports programme was held, the results being:—Tiny Tots Race—No. 1: W. Duncan 1, M. Duncan 2, R. Black 3. No. 2: Norris Chapman 1, Ailsa Thompson 2. O. Shephard and lan Henderson (equal) 3. Mrs G. Wilson's Class—K. McKenzie 1, Bruce Henderson 2, Edwin Smith 3. Mrs Henrickson's Class—Aileen Henderson 1, E. Stock 2. A. Stock 3. Open Race—P. Peace 1. A. Robinson 2. G. Gilmour 3. G. Wilson's Class—A. Cawley 1, R. Wilson 2. Junior Bible Class, girls0. Gregory 1, McDougall 2. Young Ladies' Race—D. Stock 1, O. Gregory 2, M. Swan 3. Potato Race—W. Walsh 1, F. Cawley 2, D. Stock 3. Thread-the-Needle Race—Mr and Mrs Henrickson 1, Eileen Smith and Mr Swan 2, F. McKenzie and Mr Henderson 3 Girls' High Jump—Miss O. Gregory 1. Boys' High Jump—B. Mills 1. Sack Race—Aileen McDougall 1, J. McKenzie 2. Visitors' Race—R. Nightingale 1, B. Peace 2.

Overseas mails close at the Chief Post Office, Oamaru, as under:— The next best despatch for Great Bn'tain is per the Mariposa, closing to-day (Saturday, March 5) at 2 p.m. To-day (Saturday, March s).—Great Britain, Ireland. Continent of Europe. Canada, United States of America, Argentine, Brazil, Paraquay, Uruguay and Falkland Islands, via San Pedro, also Apia, Pago Pago, Fiji, Hawaii and Japan, due London April 1 (per Mariposa, from Auckland); per north express, at 2 p.m.; late-fee letters at C.P.0., 2.20 p.m., and at Railway Station. 3 p.m. ■ Australian States, South Africa and the East, via Sydney, also Australia-Singappre-England air mail, rates on application (per Awatea. from Wellington), by north express, at 2 p.m.; late fees at C.P.0., 2,20 p.m. and at Railway Station at 3 p.m.: air mail due London March 24. Sunday, March 6—Great Britain, Ireland, Continent of Europe, Canada, United States of America, Argentine. Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Falkland Islands, via San Pedro; also Apia, Pago Pago, Fiji, Hawaii and Japan; due London April 1; by New Zealand air mail (Id per oz extra), at midnight; To connect with Mariposa at Auckland. Australian States, South Africa and the East, also Australia-Singapore-England air mail (due in London March 24); by New Zealand air service; letters only; extra fee, Id per oz; by air liner, at midnight, to connect with the Awatea at Wellington. Monday, March 7.—Australian States, South Africa and the East, via Sydney, also Australia-Singapore-England air mail, rates on application (per Swartenhondt, from Wellington), by north express at 11.15 a.m.; late fees at C.P.O. 11.35 a.m., and at Railway Station 12.8 p.m.; air mail due London March 28. By New Zealand air service; letters only; extra fee, Id per oz by airliner. 8 p.m. Australian States, also Austra-lia-Singapore-London air mail (due London March 28), via Sydney (per Wairuna, from Dunedin), at 1 p.m.; late fee letters at C.P.O. 1.20 p.m. and at Railway Station 1.55 p.m. South America, via Montevideo (per Cornwall, from Wellington), at 11.15 a.m.; late fees C.P.O. 11.35 a.m. and at Railway Station 12.8 p.m. Great Britain. Ireland, Continent of Europe, Central and Western South America, via Panama (per Zealandic, from Dunedin), at 6 a.m.; due London April 11: specially addressed correspondence only- - „ i. r, •*. . Tuesday, March B.—Great Britain, Ireland, Continent of Europe, Central and Western South America, via Panama (per Rangitiki, from Wellington), by train, at 2 p.m.; late fee letters at C.P.O. at 2.20 p.m., and at Railway Station at 3 p.m.; due London April 12; by New Zealand air service; letters only; extra fee. Id per oz: by airliner, at § p.m. . _ .... Arrival in London of Overseas Mails. ■r- The mails which left New Zealand oh January 25, via Vancouver, arrived in London on February 25. The air mail despatched from New Zealand on February 8 and }2, via Australia-Singapore air mail service, arrived in London on February 28. INCOMING MAILS (Approximate Dates) March B.—R.M.S. Aorangi, from Vancouver, via Auckland, with English and American mails. \ March B.—S.s. Awatea, from Sydney, with Australian mail. March 12.—S.s. Rangitata, from London, with English mail for New Zealand. VALEDICTORY A function was held in the Totara Hall recently, when between 30 and 40 friends gathered to bid farewell to Mr and Mrs R. Hill, who are leaving after nine years' residence in the district. The evening was spent in cards, and dancing to music supplied by Messrs M. Sinclair and J. Thompson. Messrs A. E. Sherwin, W. M. Couper, and.R. A. Needs all.spoke of Mr and Mrs Hill's many fine qualities. Mr W Couper presented the guests of the evening with a tangible token of the district's appreciation, a handsome chiming clock, suitably inscribed. Mr R. Hill suitably replied. MR AND MRS J. MULLIGAN Mr T. Wilkinson was voted to the chair at a valedictory gathering in the Enfield Hall, when residents from the surrounding districts gathered to bid farewell to Mr and Mrs J. Mulligan and family, who are removing to Oamaru to live. Mr Wilkinson said that for over 18 years Mr.and Mrs Mulligan had resided in the district, during which time they had rendered very valuable service to the community. Mr Mulligan was a member of the Enfield Athletic Society, School Committee, and Domain Board, and his three sons also took a prominent part in the affairs of the Athletic Society. Mrs Mulligan alsr had freely given her assistance in all movement? for the welfare of the district. Mr Charles Cowan added his tribute to the good qualities of the guests, and made presentations of an easy chair each to Mr and Mrs Mulligan, a handbag to Miss Mulligan, wristlet watch to Miss Pat. Mulligan, and a set of military brushes to Mr Leo Mulligan On behalf of the Windsor ParkWomen's Institute. Mrs Webster presented to Mr J. Mulligan a smokers companion in appreciation of the help he had so frequently given. Other sj eakers who referred to the fine qualities of the guests were Messrs George Yuill (president of the Enfield Athletic Society). W. Rowlands (chairman of the School Committee and the Domain Board), W Wills, and L. Vaile. Mr Mulligan and Mr Leo Mulligan made suitable acknowledgments of the gift; and good wishes. . • A happy time was spent in dancing and playing cards.

COMMERCIAL

OAMARU MARKETS

Very little threshing has been done in North Otago this week owing to the frequent rains nd the misty weather. The feed position is particularly good in North Otago for this time of the year, and there appears to be an abundance of winter feed on hand in every quarter. Weather conditions are very favourable for the sowing of autumn green feed, and merchants report a fairly good demand for last season's Algerians, Western Wolths, etc.. for this purpose. '

Oats.—lt would appear that very few oats have been threshed in North Otago to date, and the quality of those threshed is disappointing. Canterbury also reports similar experiences, and very few A or B Gartons have appeared on their market so far.

Wheat.—Light deliveries have been made to the mills this week. A number of the lines threshed, owing to the weather conditions, contained rather too high moisture content, .and these are being held on the farms for conditioning before delivery to the mills. Fowl wheat is particularly short in supply in North Otago. and if the shortage continues as the season progresses the Wheat Committee will be asked to release supplies of milling wheat for this purpose. Seeds.—There has been a better demand from the North Island this week for ryegrass, cocksfoot, and clovers. Merchants there appear to be working on definite limits, and most of the business taking place is in last season's seeds, which are slightly lower in price than the new season's crop r It is reported that subterranean clover is scarce on the North a lsland market, and it has advanced in price. Certified ryegrass continues to be particularly scarce, and the high prices are restricting sales to farmers.

LAWN TENNIS NOTES

SATURDAY'S MATCHES

The second round of the North Otago Lawn Tennis Association's Senior Competition was commenced last Saturday under perfect weather conditions. Oamaru continued its unbeaten record to win against Meadowbank by nine matches to six. After losing to Awamoa A in the first round, Waimate turned the tables on the Awamoa players, defeating them by 10 matches to two. Columba again had an easy win over Awamoa B. The results of Saturday's play give Oamaru a fairly substantial lead over the other clubs, it being the only team'to be as yet unbeaten. The positions of the teams at present are: Oamaru 6 wins, Waimate 4, Meadowbank 3, Awamoa A 3, Columba 2, Awamoa 80. The Oamaru Club has a. excellent senior team this year, nearly all of its members having, at some time or other, represented North Otago. Five out of the eight players were included in the team which played Southland recently. WAIMATE v. AWAMOA A After its previous victory over Waimate, the Awamoa A team was expected to acquit itself fairly well last Saturday, but, as it was, the Awamoa players managed to secure only two ixintcliGs The first match in the Men's Singles between Green and McKenzie resulted in three sets of good driving from either wing with occasional advances to the net, both players bringing off some fine volleys for winners. Victory ultimately went to McKenzie. Stevens proved a little more experienced than his opponent, whom he defeated in straight sets. Had Murchison, however, had a little more ball control the result might have been different, as he produced some very fine shots. Familton had a three-set struggle with McDonald, but the Awamoa player was not at his best and lacked the necessary sting behind his shots. McDonald kept the ball in play with medium-paced drives, thus making Hamilton do a lot of running. McDonald took the match 4-6 6—3, 6-1. Glass and Ball played a solid driving game, Ball being slightly more aggressive and winning alter th The S top pair in the Ladies' Singles were well matched. Mrs Bradley's driving had Miss Baikie on the run at times, but the latter was good at the net and managed to win through this aspect of her play. Mrs Stevens played well to extend Miss Hollamby to 6—4. 6-4. The game lasted about an hour, and the result could easily have been the reverse. Miss Ireland Dlayed good tennis, but Miss Paul was too consistent. She used forehand drive which gave her the advantage. Though she played a steady game Mrs Mollison did not have Inough sting in her shots, and was beaten by Miss Laurenson 9—6. The Men's Doubles provided two close games, honours being evenly divided. Both the Women's Doubles went to Waimate. The Mixed Doubles were not played owing to lack of time. OAMARU v. MEADOWBANK

A feature of the Oamaru-Meadow-banfogame was the fact that, after winning all but one of the Singles matches, and thus establishing a good lead, the Oamaru team lost nearly all the Doubles games. The Men's Singles all went to Oamaru. Feathers and McDougall had fairlv easy wins over Langley and South. Griffin's duel with Easton went to three sets, and produced some excellent tennis. Griffin's courtcraft proved too steady for the Meadowbanfc player, wjho lost the match I—6, 6—4, 4—6. Hore put up a good fight against Campbell in a three-set match. Campbell proved too consistent, and carried th As da is" usually expected of her, Miss Miller again won on straight sets. Miss Romans played well, but managed to win only three games. Driving with accuracy, Miss Comgall scored a good win over Miss Forrest. Miss Forrest took the first set 6-2, but the Oamaru player, then got control, and won the following two sets 6—4, 6—l. Misses Anderson and Gunn both won their S 1 South and Hore did very well in the Men's Doubles, and put up a great fight against McDougall and. Feathers, who eventually won 6—3, s—b, tr-j. The otlier Doubles game also provided a good match, Langley and Easton winnine 6-5, 6-5. The Women's Doubles both went to Meadowbank, as did also two of the three completed Mixed Doubles matches. » FAMILTON AND IRVINE CUPS Further results of matches in the Familton and Irvine Cup competitions are as follows:-Familton Cup. J. Hendv beat R. Ferguson 6—4, 4—b, S; W Liddell beat H. Hore by default- L Green beat L. Campbell 6—l, K* & South beat M. Hendv 6-2, 6—l A. Feathers beat J. H Main b—3, 6—o- A. Feathers beat L. South 6—2, ?_s' Irvine Cup: Miss H. Forrest beat Miss' L- McKenzie 9—2; Miss B. Anderson beat Mrs Bradley by default. AWAMOA CLUB At the Awamoa Club at present much interest is being taken in the Mixed Doubles Handicap Competition for the Nichol's Cup. The response of entries this season was poor, but most ol the nairs are strong, and the handicapping should make most of the matches very, close and interesting. The only game played so far was that between Stevens and Mrs Bradley (owe 25) and Henry and Miss o-m----strong (owe 18) the former pair winning 50—37. The game mainly consisted of long rallies of cross-court driving by-Henry and Mrs Bradley, making it hard for their respective partners to intercept. However, when Stevens got to the ball his volleys were well placed, and usually resulted in a point. Miss Armstrong played well, but did not get much opportunity to rise to the heights she is capable of. In a recent ladder challenge, Glass defeated Main 6—o. 6—o. Glass was driving well, while Main frequently netted his volleys, thus giving his opnonent the upper hand throughout. Stevens challenged Familton for second place on the club ladder and won 6—l. 6—3. Stevens used wellplaced drives and often came to the net to volley for winning shots.

EXHIBIT AT FLOWER SHOW

FINAL MEETING OF COMMITTEE The final meeting of the committee responsible for the North Otago exhibit at the National Flower Show, was well attended by members and those who had assisted at Christchurch.x Mr J. Tait occupied the chair. The secretary and treasurer (Mr G. S. Jones) submitted the financial statement, and accounts totalling £26 3s lid were passed for payment, with still a few small accounts to come in. Contributions amounting to £27 6s 6d, received from the Borough and County Councils, the North Otago Horticultural Society, and several generous citizens, made it possible to meet all expenses. The chairman reviewed the work and the united effort of the people of North Otago, making it possible to stage the wonderful exhibit, which had undoubtedly enhanced the district's already high reputation in the horticultural world. Appreciative reference was made to the generosity of the Borough and County Councils, and to the public-spirited citizens who had assisted financially, to those who gave their best flowers, fruit, or vegetables so willingly, the various firms for packing material, and to the Mayor (Mr M. F. E. Cooney) for the use of his store as a depot. It was impossible,- said Mr Tait, to mention individually all who assisted with labour, but he mentioned specially the Gardens' staff, who worked on the Saturday and Sunday, and those who had collected and packed the flowers at the depot. The freshness of the exhibit at the conclusion of the show was an eloquent tribute to those responsible for this work. Mr Tait also paid tribute to the splendid spirit of enthusiasm, which prompted such a large body of men and women to travel to Christchurch, entirely at their own expense, and no one except those taking part could t realise the tremendous effort, which* was made so spontaneously by everyone. He also stated it was one of his finest experiences, and an inspiration to have been associated with such enthusiasts, who had all worked in such perfect harmony. Mention was made of the comprehensive nature of the exhibit, which contained 50 kinds of cut blooms, not counting varieties, 33 types of pot plants, including native ferns and pjants, 24 varieties of vegetables, and 13 of fruit, a total of 120, the -exhibit weighing 4 tons lOCwt. Every basket and bowl on the stand was, an artistic creation in itself, and reflected the highest credit on the ladies responsible for this work. All were agreed that their efforts had been amply repaid by the delight and appreciation so freely expressed by the Christchurch public and visitors from all centres. Speaking on behalf of the committee, Mr J. Hambley said that, while all had done their very best, Mr Tait had had the responsibility of planning and organising and months of preparation, and it was only lovers of flowers who could have done what Mr and Mrs Tait had done. Messrs G. Mitchell and Cradock supported these remarks. Mr Tait made eulogistic reference to the secretary (Mr Jones) for the use of his native ferns and for his -good work in Christchurch. At the conclusion of the' business, Mr and Mrs Tait entertained the gathering to supper. OAMARU BEAUTIFYING SOCIETY COMMITTEE MEETING Dr R. G. S. 'Orbell presided at a meeting of the committee of the Oamaru Beautifying Society, held on Thursday night; The' chairman referred to the great amount of work that had been done during the past year, making special reference to the terrace at the foot of Hull street and the waterfall in the Itchen street reserve. The society's thanks were due to Mr J. Tait for supervising the work. Mr Tait pointed out that the men who had carried out the work were to be complimented, as they had taken a real interest in their task. Dr Orbell stated that the meeting'; had been called for the purpose of considering the question of carrying on with the terracing of the Wansbeck street cutting. The Borough Council had indicated to the sub-committee that, if the society was prepared to gay the cost of the stone, which would e approximately £IOO. the council would supply the labour, carting, and other materials. —It was agreed to proceed with the work. Accounts amounting to £74 15s 4d were passed for payment. It was decided to hold the annual meeting on Tuesday, May 3: CHURCH SERVICES The Rev. W. Lawson Marsh will be the preacher at both services at Columba Presbyterian Church to-mor-row. His morning subject will be "The Flash-point of Faith," and in the evening, "The Unconquerable Christ." At the evening service the quartet, "God So Loved the World," will be sung. Quarterly communion will be held in the morning, and communion again at 7.45 p.m. - Harvest festival services will be held in the Methodist Church to-mor-row. The junior choir will render suitable music in the morning, and in the evening the choir will present the sacred cantata, " The Rolling Seasons." The Rev. J. F. Jack will conduct both services. A service will be held at Kakanui at 2.30 p.m. The subject for to-morrow night's Christian Science service in the Douglas Social Credit Hall will be "Man" The Rev. John M. McKenzie will preach at both services to-morrow at St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, his evening subject being "Christ's Lordship and Our Freedom." Communion service will be held in the morning, and a supplementary communion in the evening. The Rev. lan Dixon will conduct J the evening service at Eveline. In St. Luke's parish to-morroW, Archdeacon Russell will celebrate holy communion at St. Luke's at 8, and Enfield at 2.30. He will take the Scripture Union at 10, matins, at Newborough at 11, and evensong at St. Luke's at 6.30. There will also be a meeting of men at the Vicargage at 8 p.m. to recommence the C.E.M.S. The Rev. Bernard Plumb will celebrate holy communion at St. Luke's at 11, and take evensong at Newborough at 6.30. He will also be at the Y.M.B.C. at 10, and Sunday School at 2. CRICKET Teams for to-day:— Albion Seniors v. Union, at School.— Brooker. Davey, Jacobs, Firth, Ford, Taylor, Irvine. Robinson. Geddes. Stewart. Albion Juniors v. St. Kevin's, at St. Kevin's.—Gleeson, Sutherland (2). Mclvor. Thorp, Cooney, Harrington, Tucker, Brewster, Moore. Oamaru Juniors v. School, at School —Beattie, Bee (2). Brooker (2) Dick, Milne, Middleton. Paterson. Robinson. Sloan. Ngapara v. Windsor.—McCulloch (2), Watson (2), Eckhold (2)„ Nimmo, Blair, Newlands, Conlan, O'Brien, Morrison. Forbes, Dunlop, Erickson, Wilson Union Seniors v. Albion, at School.— Blair, Papps, Park, McCallum, Meikle, Doig, Tonkin, Rawstorn, J. Kinder, Spear. Borrows. Maddigan.

KINEMA ENTERTAINMENTS

"THE GOOD EARTH " Paul Muni and Luise Rainer are responsible for excellent performances in the roles of Wang Lung and O-lan in Pearl Buck's story. "The Good Earth," which will have its Oamaru premiere at the Majestic Theatre tonight. Simplicity in theme and character creates the appeal of the *film The players seem so honest in their emotions that the sense of a different atmosphere from the modes of picture production to which we have become accustomed is apparent from the start. There are no magnificent costumes no great streets, and no luxurious houses. There are, instead, homespun dresses, rice fields, crops of wheat, and houses that are little better than hovels. The change from modern sophistication is so sudden that it catches the imagination.. The curious* Oriental philosophies and mannerisms of the characters are things of fascination. In this theme. " The Good Earth " has an appeal for the whole of mankind. The central characters are placed on the sprawling face of China to enact their drama. Through the trails of storms, famines, wars, wealth and poverty, the story moves, taking with it Wang and O-lan. husband and wife. Wang, a son of the earth, by the good offices of his wife, rises through trouble to become a wealthy man Then he falls to the fascination of a dancing girl, taking her as his second wife. His wife still goes her way, a little bewildered by wealth and position. Finally, Wang's family shows him his own folly. In this way the story, dealing starkly and realistically with the ravages of Chinese life, has a message for the Occidental mind. O-lan's shy devotion and Wang's careless acceptance and occasional fits of boyish delight are memorable pieces of acting. The film is an exceptionally long one, and its screening will be commenced at 8 o'clock each night. OPERA HOUSE "CAN YOU HEAR ME, MOTHER?" Sandy Powell, Britain's greatest comedian, is the star of "Can You Hear Me, Mother?" which plays its second night at the Opera House tonight No' effort has been spared to make the picture good, rollicking comedy, and supporting the star! are such versatile players as pretty Mary Lawson, Paul Thomson, Muriel Aked and little Baby Ann Ibbetson, an infant prodigy who almost steals the show. The story is based upon Sandy Powell's life story, and shows how the stage-struck North Country lad comes to London to win fame in the music hall. At first he is a failure, but eventually, assisted by the little chorus girl who takes pity on him, he wins through. It is characteristic of Sandy's universal popularity that he performed his famous sketch, "The Test Match," before the King and Queen exactly*' as he played it throughout England, , anad a tribute to b,is ability as a comedian is that their Majesties expressed themselves as highly amused. Packed with fun and skilfully directed by Leslie ("Bulldog Drummond") Pearce, " Can You Hear Me. Mother?" establishes Sandy as a screen star of the first flight. ... ~( "SAINTS IN EXILE" George Bancroft in a role reminiscent of his memorable portrayals in " Underworld," " Dragnet n and " Docks of New York" heads the large cast appearing in Columbia's "Saints in Exile," the new screen attraction now showing at the Opera House. Appearing opposite Bancroft is Wynne Gibson, his co-star in the famous "Lady and Gent" of several years ago, and Evelyn Venable. Plans are at the Bristola. PORT OF OAMARU High Water—March 5: 5.18 a.m. and 5.31 p.m., and March 6: 6.5 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. The Wainui, from Auckland last Friday, will discharge and load at Oamaru this morning for Wellington and Auckland, via Timaru and Lyttelton. The Karetu was expected to commence loading at Newcastle on March 3. and is to clear Sydney on Monday for Bluff. Dunedin, Oamaru, Timaru, and Lyttelton. The Waipahi will load here on Wednesday, March 16, for Wellington, Napier, and Gisborne, via ports. The m.v. Karu will load here about Thursday, March 10, for Wellington, Nelson, and New Plymouth, via ports. • Messrs Dalgety and Co., as agents for the' Shaw Savill Line, have received advice that the Tairoa will arrive in ballast from Sydney about March 28 to load 20,000 freight carcasses of lamb and mutton and general cargo for London. GENERAL NEWS An inquest into the death of Hector William Robertson, of Papakaio, was opened at the Courthouse yesterday morning before the coroner (Mr A. W. Woodward), and after evidence of identification had been given by Walter John Robertson, brother of the deceased, the inquiry was adjourned sine die. Between 9 a.m. on Thursday and the same time yesterday, 30 points of rain were recorded by Mr William Forrester. The total for the 48 hours ending at 9 o'clock 'yesterday, is 77 points. On Tuesday next a farewell will be given to Mr and Mrs K. Crump, in St. Paul's Hall, at 2.30 p.m. JMr and Mrs Crump will be leaving Oamaru shortly to tak~e up a position at "the New Hebrides Mission. 9 The death took place suddenly at 8.45 p.m. yesterday of Mrs Clelland, wife of Mr William Clelland, Power Board employee, of 41 Tees street, Oamaru. Mrs Clelland took a fainting turn and collapsed. The cause of death is unknown. PERSONAL Miramar Hotel.—Mi- and Mrs J. B. Lang (Ceylon), Mr and Mrs Small, Mr S. Wall, Miss A. Munroe, Miss T. Charters, Mr A. Middlemarch, Mr and Mrs B. Charters, Miss Charters, Mr B. Buxton (Christchurch), Mr H G. Russell, Mr A. Rodgers, Mr J. Exton (Dunedin). Mr Darling (Wellington), Mr and Mrs Wood (Invercargill), Mr A. Burrell (Kaiapoi), Mr and Mrs R. Jennings, Miss McGrouther (Gore), Mr J. Wallock (Rangiora). Mr C. Lyons (Otautau), Mrs T. Divers (Napier). New Club H(Vl.—Mr C. M. Moore, Mr R. J. Muir (Wellington), Mr 3\ S. Dyer (Christchurch), Mrs D. McDonald, Mrs W. Smith (Temuka), Mr N. Kempt (Timaru). Mr and Mrs J. Waddell (Dunedin).