Wesleyan Garden Party.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2956, 30 November 1900, Page 3

Wesleyan Garden Party.

The annual garden party in connection with the Ladies’ Guild of the Wesleyan Church was held at Mr C. Bowker s residence, “The Pines,” College road, yesterday. As usual, the gathering was in unqualified success, a very large number of people walking and driving, out. Mr Bowker placed his grounds entirely at the disposal of the Guild, and full advantage was taken of his generosity. The general remarks on the neatness and beauty ot the garden, lawns, etc., were most complimentary, and it would have been hard to find anyone who was not delighted with the arrangements. The turf was soft and green and springy, and plenty of seating accommodation was provided in shady nooks and under large garden umbrellas. Formal opening was dispensed with ihe Hon. Hall-Jones had been invited to open the proceedings, but be sent an apology, being busily engaged in Auckland. The scheme of general amusements was a large one, and these were freely indulged in. Nail-driving and hat-trimming competitions were productive of the most hilarious meiriment, the ladies scoring well in both. Croquet, tennis, bowls and quoits, and a shooting gallery and a lollie stall, were all well patronised, those in attendance being kept very busily engaged. About 4.30 a delicious tea» was served, the ladies ot the Guild and an army of assistants looking after the wants of the holiday-makers. Among the visitors we noticed a> considerable number from Temuka, in fact it ivas evident, at least on the tennis court, tha.i Temuka was remarkab'y well represented. After tea the Rev. Mr Buttle called on Mr J. Brown, of Temuka, to move a hearty vote of thanks to Mr and Mrs Bowker for their kindness in again granting the use of their grounds to the Guild. Mr Brown did so in ai very able manner, and Mr Buttle endorsed and seconded the proposal, which was carried heartily, with three cheers for Mr and Mrs Bowker and the Misses Bowker. It was remarked by a gentleman present (Mr Duke, of Dunedin) that it was Mr Buttle’s birthday, and three cheers were called for and promptly given. The games were then continued with heartiness. A few instrumental selections by Mr Wood’s string baud, and some vocal items, were well rendered during the afternoon, and materially augmented the pleasure of those present. The Protestant Band also gave their services gratuitously. Mr Ellis had a drag service to and from the grounds.