Country News.

Southern Cross, Volume 7, Issue 9, 11 June 1898, Page 9

Country News.

(From our owu Correspondents.)

FOREST HILL.

On the 4th a farewell social was given to Mr Jas. Robertson, who has lately purchased land about twelve miles from Mandeville, known as ‘The Retreat.’ The social was given by the young people of Forest Hjll, friends of Mr Robertson, who also presented him with a handsome barometer and thermometer combined as a token of esteem, with best wishes for his future welfare. About two o’clock the other morning our peaceful slumbers were disturbed by a noise as of horses kicking at the door, and in reply to the query ‘ Hallo there ! ’ two constables appeared at the window. After a few questions had been asked and answered, we found, to our relief, that we were not wanted. The men in blue wanted to know if two auspicious-looking swaggers had been seen on the road lately. On being satisfied that they knew as much as we did the policemen bid us good morning, with the assurance we could sleep in peace. But lo ! when morning came we were surprised to find that the door had been locked from the outside. Never mind, ‘ Ras.’ The other door wasn’t locked.

In response to an invitation from Mr and Mrs Clark, Lochiel, a number of visitors went to their place on Friday evening, 3rd June, and found that the new barn bad been nicely decorated and lighted up ready for a ‘ spree.’ The night being cold and frosty it was not long before we were whirling round to the music of Miss Hunter on Mrs Clark’s new piano—presented to her by Mr Clark on her birthday, the event we were celebrating —and Mr P. Brown on the violin. Mr Keay, of Winton, also contributed to the entertainment by telling some humorous anecdotes, and in a very suitable manner thanked Mr and Mrs Clark for their entertainment, and concluded by calling for three hearty cheers, which were readily given, About three o’clock the entertainment broke up, all going away convinced that we had had a very good night’s fun.