SOCIAL AT MIDDLEMARCH

Otago Witness, Issue 3339, 13 March 1918, Page 7

SOCIAL AT MIDDLEMARCH

On Wednesday, 6th inst., in the A. and P„ Society's Had, Middiemaron, JUeutenant D. M. Moriarty and Private P. Walker, former residents of the district ,were entertained by the local Patriotic Committee and friends. The gathering, which too the form of a. social, was- well attended, in recognition of the esteem in which the guests of the evening were held, and in appreciation of the sacrifices they had made. Mr A. M'Kinnon (chairman of the Patriotic Committee), who presided, briefly outlined the object of the meeting, and on behall of those present extended a hearty welcome to their soldier friends. Later in the evening, having touched on the experiences they had passed through during their term of active service, the chairman presented Lieutenant Moriarty with a sovereign case, and Private Walker with a suitably inscribed medal, -in tangible recognition of their services to the district and to the Empire. Ho hoped that Private Walker would make a complete recovery and that a useful civil life lay before him. Lieutenant Moriarty had. to leave them again, but he hoped his absence would be a short one, ■ Lieutenant Moriarty, who has returned to the dominion on duty, replying, said ho had done no more than his duty, and that deserved no praise. He proceeded to pay a very fine tribute to the work of the Y.M.C.A. at the front. The activities of that organisation extended right to the firing line, ' and after heavy fatigue the soldiers were always gladdened by the sight of the little red light, which spelt for them all hot cocoa, etc., and biscuits. Private Walker, who has been invalided home, endorsed his comrade's remarks. Ho too, had done no more than his duty, where all tried to do their best. lie thanked his friends for their kindness. The programme consisted of choruses and part songs" by Mrs Thomson and a party of young ladies, recitations by Miss M'Cullough and Mr Stephens, a comedietta by Misses Thomson and Louie, and an instrumental duet by Miss and Mr Deaker. On the motion of the chairman, votes of thanks were accorded to the_ performers and to the ladies who had provided refreshments. The proceedings closed with the singing of the National Anthem, after which as many as could be accommodated sat down to a bountiful supper.