WAIMATUKU.

Otago Witness, Issue 2811, 26 August 1908, Page 40

WAIMATUKU.

August 22.— 1t is many "years since any event in this district caused such widespread regret as the death, after a short illness, of Mr Alex. Barron. The cause 'was pneumonia, and although from the outset the case -was considered 6erious, hopes were entertained that, with the ad- „ vantage of a wiry constitution and every attention in the way of medical skill and nursing, he would overcome the disease. Th© odds proved too great, and after a . good struggle he gradually sank, and' passed peacefully away. Mr Barron arrived •with his parents in this Dominion some 25 years ago, and for the greater part of that time he has followed agricultural, pursuits in this neighbourhood. A man of upright, sterling character, he had a most agreeable and obliging manner, and nothing gave him greater pleasure than to be of service to 'his leighbours. Possessing a genial, buoyant disposition, he had the enviable knack of looking on the bright side of things, <«id a chat with him at times acted like a tonic. To many of his intimate friends his death came aa a great shook; but we Tejoioe to think the world is better for his having lived in it. The deceased gentleman is survived by his widow end three children, and to them and his aged mother are extended the deepest sympathy in their sad bereavement. Concert and Dance. — The coffers of the school committee having become rather low, a "concert and dance was held on the 18th inst. for the purpose of augmenting the funds. Notwithstanding the dark, threatening evening there was a fair attendance, and those present enjoyed ,the concert very much. A first-claes programme was submitted, _song 6 being rendered by Messrs Churton, Richards, and Mulligan, Misses Price and (xilmour, recitations by Mr Wallace, and pianoforte selections by the Misses Price. ' The school children, under the direction of Miss >Selby, also contributed two items in a pleasing manner. Undoubtedly the gem of thY evening was the vobal duet, " Watchman, what o' the night," by Messrs Cburtqn and Richards, this number being a veritable treat. A special word of praise is due to Miss Lily Price, as, in addition to taking part in several pianoforte duets, she played all the accompaniments in a manner which spoke volumes for her skill and good nature. The dance which followed proved most enjoyable. Weddings. — Marriages are rare in this community, but of late indications point to a revival "in the matrimonial market, and recently two of our younj? men joined .the ranks of the noble army of martyrs. On th© 12th inst., at the residence of IJIO bride's parents, Miss Maggie Brown and Mr Walter Southern were united in the holy bonds of wedlock, the Rev. A. D. Kirkland performing the ceremony. Mies Marion Brown fulfilled the duties of bridesmaid, and Mr Harry Southern supported his brother as best man. The function was a quiet one, only the neai relatives and a few intimate friends of the contracting parties being present. After the ceremony an adjournment was made to tho granary, •where a sumptuous breakfast was partaken of and the usual toasts and eulogistic speeches indulged in*' The bride received 1 quite a number, of presents,' both ornamental and ''utilitarian. Another quiet wedding toek place on the 10th inst., when Miss 1 Harley, late of Reddrboh, England, was married to Mr William Humphreys. Mr Humphreys settled in this distriot on his arrival in the Dominion some six or seven years ago, ' and so well pleased is he with New Zealand that last year he took a trip Home and induced several of his relatives to try their fortunes in this country, among them being " the girl he left behind him.' Both yqung couples are very popular, and htfve the best wishes of a wide oircle of friends. . Baohelors' Ball.— The bachelors held their annual ball on the' 18th ult., and, tho evening proving most suitable, a large number were present and spent an enjoyable time. The committee spared no effort, to nromote the comfort of its guests, and it is to be complimented on-.the excellence of the arrangements. Capital music was supplied by Crook's orchestra, and }lr Andrews (of Riverton) sustained his reputation as a first-claso caterer. Mr M'Gillvary acted as 2^l. C. in his usual finished manner.