CLINTON.

Otago Witness, Issue 2179, 28 November 1895, Page 28

CLINTON.

November 25. —The weather here has been very wetand cold lately Indeed, we have had no summer weather at all yet, but from all accounts we are no wore-e off in this respect than other places. As the weather haa been so unfavourable the cror.B are not making much progress, and there is a good dial of grumbling aiuoi.g the fanueis. Soiree— A soiree was held last w<ek in the Presbyterian Church. It was got up as a meins of welcoming back the Rev. Mr Spence, who, alo-'g with Mrs Spence, has been absent for some weeks on a trip to the Australian colonies for the benefit of his health. The ladies of the various sections of the congregation seat in a very ample supply of provisions, and the church was tastefully decorated for the occasion. The princi. pal speakers wera the Eev. Mr Fairmaid, of Kaitangata, and Mr A. C. Begs, of Duuedin, who is connected with the district by family and othei ■fi s. Both speechep we-e in eh appreciated. Me Bi'ks b> g.n by giving hi-. )< minisrencrs of the district 35 je«>s ago, when he and another lad who were traveling on foot from Invercargi.il *to Dunedin nearly lost their way, but fortnnately reached the house of Mr George Steele, wlia treated them hospitably, and who was then almost the only settler hereabouts. Not the least interesting part of the proceedings was the presentation of a cheque to Mr Spence to assist in defraying the expenses of his trip. Political. — 2lr Mackenzie, the member for tha district, is expected to address his constituents . ere soon. He is aim as t certain to meet with a

good reception, although some people have expressed a contrary opinion. It is also said that Borne of ibe residents have asked the Hon. Mr Ward to deliver an addreps here, and tb.it Mr Ward has signified his willingness to do so. If both add raises come off the -good people of Clinton will be fortunate in having both sides of the questions of the day put before them.