SOLDIER'S FAREWELL

Southland Times, Issue 17792, 22 July 1916, Page 6

SOLDIER'S FAREWELL

PRIVATE ROBERT COWIE. There was a large attendance at the Oreti Hall on Thursday evening last, ■when Private Robert Cowie, who is down on final leave, was farewelled, every part of the district being represented, and enthusiasm and warmhearted feeling was in evidence throughout, providing convincing proof of the young soldier’s popularity. On behalf of the residents, Mr T. Mcl-ean presented Private Cowie with a wristlet watch, and in doing so said that the recipient was the second son of a highly respected family to place his services at the disposal of his country. Mr W. K. Taylor, of Invercargill, delivered a patriotic address, in the course of which he said it behoved every man and every woman to do his or her utmost to see that the nation emerged triumphantly from Hie titanic struggle. Victory would he dearly bought, and it was essential that the State should make liberal provision for the men when they returned. He paid a tribute to the work the women were doing in connection with the war. * Short speeches were also made by Messrs tiazzard, M. Crowe, and I’. de la Perrelle, and Private Cowie briefly and modestly replied. Songs were contributed by Mrs Cowie, Misses Neave and Milne, and Messrs T. Taylor and F. Tilley. A dance was held afterwards, music being supplied by Messrs Bailey and Sons and McDonald (violins), and Mr T. T. Taylor (piano). Mr John Cowie acted as M.C. The ladies of Oreti provided the refreshments. The gathering which was a most enjoyable and successful one Was brought to a conclusion in tie- usual loyal manner.