SCOTTISH SOCIETY

Southland Times, Issue 19279, 25 June 1924, Page 7

SCOTTISH SOCIETY

MONTHLY MEETING. The monthly gathering of the St. Andrew’s Scottish Society was held last evening in the Victoria Hall, the Chief (Mr J. C. McG. Watson) presiding over an excellent attendance of members and friends. In his opening remarks, the chairman said that appropriately enough, that night was the anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn. It was a sacred day to those who treasured the memory of the independence of Scotland, and the remembrance of its immortal heroes. “The grass is growing green on Bannockburn,” said Mr Watson, “and flowers are growing over the graves of the illustrious Scottish dead who lie sleeping the long sleep on the famous battle ground, which I had the privilege of visiting some years ago.” Much water had flowed under the bridge since those stirring times and victors and vanquished now lived together in mutual concord and amity as the original constituents of the great British Empire which had extended to all corners of the earth. Yet they lost nothing in their devotion to the Empire by remembering as true Scots that that day stood forth as the anniversary of the establishment of Scottish liberty. (Applause). Mr Watson then briefly introduced the lecturer, who, he said, was well-known cn

the lecture platform, and he was sure lhej were in for a very interesting evening. In a very comprehensive address, Mr T. R. Fleming traced the growth of the influences which had moulded the British nation, showing what a large part Scotland had played in the formation of those principles which were the keystone of the existence of the people of Britain and its far-flung dominions. In moving a hearty vote of thanks to the lecturer, the Chief said that the Scottish nation stood for freedom and civil and religious liberty. The blood of their forefathers had stained the heather in defence of those sacred principles which were ingrained in the race, and which had been handed down to them as a precious heritage. Gatherings such as they held served to keep alive the Scottish spirit in their midst, and that night had been a memorable evening in their calendar. During the evening, a splendid programme of Scottish music, song and story was given by the Browns Pipe Band. In addition to the Band, individual performers were:—Songs by Miss King, and Messrs D. Russell, R. White, R. Mcßae; a humorous duet by Miss White and Mr White; and a character duet by Messrs White and McRae. Miss King made a very efficient accompanist©.