GARSTON.

Otago Witness, Issue 3277, 3 January 1917, Page 23

GARSTON.

December 26. —Wo require ram badly, and, although crops and grass generally have not yet suffered to any extent, or to auoh an extent, but that a good 46 hours rain will remedy matters, yet, if this heat continues, all grain crops will have a straw shortage. Feed still continues good, and all kinds of stock are looking well. Calves are receiving more attention than was at one tirno the case, good prices being accountable for this. Shearing is not general here, and will not bo until after the holidays, it even then. Farmers grumble over present inconsistencies, commandeered wool, ar) d dairy produce, high freights, and higherpriced labour; but the groat cause should bo an all-important factor for silencing agitators. , Leaving for Gamp.—A social and sentalion, held in the schoolroom on the 23rd inst., to farewell three of our young men was well attended. Mr Win. Gordon, J.P., was in the chair, and briefly outlined tho present war situation, anti hoped that Messrs F. and M. Fitzpatrick and 1 atnek M‘Quirk would uphold New Zealand s credit. He called upon Mr George Vi raytt to make the presentation. In doing so Mr Wraytt said all parts of the Empire weio doing their utmost, and uniting themselves as one body to do so. He hoped all three men would return with tho honouis oi war upon them after an honourable peace. He knew that Garstori would always be grateful to them for going forward for the defence of their King and country. Mr Wraytt then presented each with a gold wristlet watch as a slight token oi tno respect and esteem in which they are held by the Garston residents. Trooper Fitzpatrick suitably replied. Giving to severe colds Messrs M. Fitzpatrick and Patrick M Quak asked to be excused, but thanked friends, and neighbours for their gifts. Others piesent spoke, eulogising the sterling qualities of the departing soldiers, several ofe p homes should they need them on then return to Garston. A dance followed, interspersed with musical and elocutionary items. This was brought to a close to singing “ For they are jolly good fellows. Music was supplied by Mr John Soper, while Miss Soper, assisted by other ladies, present, handed round refresnments. ihe singing of the National Anthem and cheer s for the soldiers brought the meeting to a Mr Cusacke has severed his connection with Garston havin- bocn appointod head teacher of the Wild Bush School, near Riverton. He was suitably farewcllod before leaving, all the children regretting the loss of their geniall teacher. General—A few anglers may be seen on the river. Fish are said to be plentiful —Miners are afraid that if ram docs not come soon they will be obliged to close down.— There is but one w.sh here—an honourable peace and a prosperous and peacable 1917.