BLACKSTON HILL.

Otago Witness, Issue 2805, 18 December 1907, Page 39

BLACKSTON HILL.

December 12.— After an exceptionally fine, dry winter spring was ushered 1 in by cold, dry, windy weather. We have had some very warm days, with an almost total absence of moisture. The Crops. — There is a very large area of land under crop in the Ida Valley this year. It was got in very early on account of the ground being very dry, and for the very small rainfall the crops are looking remarkably well. Just as failure seemed imminent /from want of moisture, rain set in, and lasted for 24 hours, 'The weather is still showery. The rain baa "brought a smile on every farmer's face. The lambing percentages, on the average, ara very disappointing, being from 80 down to lower than 50 per cent. Scholastic. — Our school was inspected a short time ago by Mr Inspector, Bossence, when it- had » very successful pan. Farewell Social. — A very enjoyable evening was spent in the Public Hall recently to bid farewell to Mr and Mrs Anderson, of Royal Oak Farm. It would take np too much of your space were I to give a detailed account of all irfiat -was said and 1 done. Suffice it to say that there were some capital songs, duets, and step-dancing by Mr W. B<allard, and music by Miss M'Bride and Mr Roy Johnsone, every item being well received by a. large and" appreciative audience. The chair was filled by Mr R. Johneone, who during the evening, on behalf of many friends, presented Mr J. F. Anderson with a beautiful gold albsxt guard and pendant, suitably inscribed, and Mrs Anderson with a splendid lady's travelling companion. Mr Anderson, in a very ■ feeling speech, returned thanks for the very substantial and beautiful presents. Mr and Mrs Anderson have been residents for over 80 years. Mr Anderson has disposed of his farm to Mr P. McDonald, son of the late Mr P. M'Donaldv of Ida Valley, for a good substantial sum, and intends to take it easy for the rest of his days, which, I sincerely hose, may be many. A very enjoyable dance which followed was kept up until sunrise. Mr P. Dillon supplied the music.