Social,and Presentation at Drummond.

Southland Times, Issue 16053, 3 June 1902, Page 4

Social, and Presentation at Drummond.

(CONTBIBUTED.)

A complimentary social to Mr and Mrs James Lumsdeu was held in the hall on Friday evening, when, in spite of stormy weather, there was a large gathering of the public. Mr Lumsden has occupied the position of'kead teacher in the local school for the past fourteen years, and is now retiring in order to engage in agricultural pursuits. During his long residence Mr Lumsden has not only endeavoured to faithfully discharge the duties directly pertaining to his position, but has also taken a large interest in everything that has been for the advancement of the district. Every good cause had his willing assistance, and he has spared neither time nor trouble in the public service. This was therefore regarded by the Drummond people as a fitting opportunity for expressing to him their regard and good will. The chairman w^B the Rev. W. W. Brown, of Limestone Plains. At an interval in Che proceedings Mr John Merrifield stated that he had a pleasant duty to perform in conveying to Mr and Mrs Lumsden some tangible evidence of the' high esteem in which they were held in the district. Mr Lumsden had won and held the rear Sfe'fc 6f the whole community, while rs Lumsden had endeared herself to them all by her kind and sympathetic nature. The presentation consisted of a handsome dining-room suite of furniture upholstered in leather, and several beautiful articles of silver plate. Mr Lumsden on rising to reply was greeted by the whole assemblage, standing and rendering with great effect "For they are jolly good fellows." He said words failed him. He had only tried to do his duty. He had found warm hearts in Drummond and greatly appreciated their kindness. He thanked Mr Merrifield for his generous remarks and hoped that in some degree they wonldprove worthy of them. He promised a hearty welcome from Mrs Lumsden and himself to all his friends when they called on them at their new home.

Advantage was taken of the presence, of Miss Mac Arthur, who was for eight years pupil teacher in the school, and has recently been appointed teacher at Scot's Gap, to make a presentation to her. Mr Wm. Mackintosh, jnr., delivered a happy speech, saying that on behalf of the past and present pupils he had much pleasure iv presenting to Miss Mac Arthur a gold watch and chain. The company expressed their approral by heartily singing " For she's a jolly good fellow." Miss Mac Arthur personally expressed her thanks. During the evening; musical items were f'tven by Misses Mackintosh (3), Macll wrick, utton, MacLeish, Stewart, and Messrs A. Xumsden, C. Mackintosh and J. Gordon. Refreshments were provided in abundance by the ladies of the district and parlonr games were indulged in till about midnight, when the proceedings weie brought to a close with " God Save the King" and "Auld Lang Syne". The meeting was most harmonious and enjoyable and showed the very high place that Mr and Mrs Lumeden hold in the affections of the Drummond people.