INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS.

Otago Witness, Issue 367, 11 December 1858, Page 5

INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS.

The Otago branch of this Order held a Dinner in celebration of their tenth anniversary at the Royal Hotel, on Friday, 3rd inst. About 60 sat down to a good and substantial dinner, to which ample justice was done. After the usual loyal and patriotic toasts were disposed of,

The Chairman-, in proposing the " Hand-and-Heart Lodge," stated that ten years ago the Lodge was founded, and numbered five members : it now consisted of 94, with a fund of nearly £400, which for the most part was lent to members only for periods of six months at the rate of 10 per cent. The toasts were duly responded to, and several good and appropriate songs were sung. The Dinner was followed by a Ball, which was maintained till an advanced hour in the morning, when the guests dispersed to their homes — all declaring it to be one of the most pleasant evenings they had ever spent in Otago.

The arrangements reflect great credit on Mr. Dyer, no expense having been spared to render the comfort of his guests complete ; and on the part of the guests there was that marked desire to render each other comfortable which could not fail of success. The harmony and good-fellowship which prevailed were attributable in a great measure to the excellent arrangements of the gentleman who kindly acted as M.C. for the evening.