Bluff Notes.

Southern Cross, Volume 12, Issue 16, 16 July 1904, Page 9

Bluff Notes.

The concert given by the married men took place in the Presbyterian Church here on Monday evening, and was an enjoyable success. Songs, duets, quartettes, readings, and instrumental solos were given by Messrs Frank Johnson, Slater, Crockett, George, Galbraith, Davis, J. Walker, Grant, Leitb, Parker, Mitchell, and the Rev. Mr Laishley. Mr Phillips efficiently filled the role of accompanist. Mr Stewart Ferguson met with a nasty accident the other day throngh slipping on the pavement in front of his house and falling in such a manner as to break one of his legs. He was removed to the hospital, and is,. 1 understand, progressing very favourably. Our stationmaster, Mr Guy, has been laid up this last week suffering from a very severe attack of influenza. He is, however, improving, and we trust he will soon be about again. Mr Graham, manager for the Bank of Hew Zealand, left for a month’s holiday on Tuesday, Mr Twemlow taking his place. The fern fete in aid of the Convent fund closed on Saturday, and was a very great success. Mrs Tipping and all those who worked for it are to be congratulated on the handsome result. I understand that nearly £l4O will be handed over after paying all expenses. The passing away of Mrs De Smidt has left a blank among the older residents of the Bluff which will long be felt. The deceased lady was an old resident, having come to the colony 42 years ago, and was greatly respected by all classes. She leaves three daughters, all married, namely, Lady Ward, Mrs Walter Henderson, and Mrs Boys. Mrs De Smidt had been suffering from bronchitis for a little over a week, when heart failure supervened, and she passed away very quickly. The funeral took place on Wednesday, Sir Joseph and Lady Ward with Mr Cyril Ward and Mr Wilson (private secretary) having arrived from Wellington the previous day. A very large number of people followed the funeral cortege, including many from Invercargill, where the deceased lady was well known. The coffin was covered with a large number of beautiful wreaths. The Ven. Archdeacon Stocker conducted the funeral service, the interment

taking place in the' Oampbelltown cemetery. Sir Joseph Ward ■ and party left by special train on Wednesday evening, so as to reach Wellington on Friday morning. [A report of St. Matthew’s church meetiag appears on page 12].