BURNS ANNIVERSARY

Southland Times, Issue 19461, 28 January 1925, Page 5

BURNS ANNIVERSARY

MATAURA CELEBRATIONS. (From our Correspondent.) The Mataura Highland Society celebrated the Burns anniversary in the Horticultural Hall on Monday night. Chieftain J. Buchanan presided in the absence of Chief W. Buchanan, and explained that owing to the restrictions issued by the Health De- i partment, several people had to be turned away who had children with them, so that I the attendance was less than it otherwise would have been. Visitors were present from the Gore Society. Mr Buchanan introduced Mr W. B. McEwan, who was already known to the audience, and who had come all the way from Dunedin to give an address on Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. Scotsmen, he ■ said, all the world over, met every year on : January 25 to perpetuate the memory of their beloved poet. Mr McEwan went into the life and especially the beautiful works of Burns. Those possessing a book of Burns’ poems possessed a bit of Scotland . itself. Mr McEwan touched on Burns’ three great characteristics, intense love of his native land, honesty, and self independence. The adress, which was given in a very interesting manner, was very much appreciated by all present. Chieftain Buchanan proposed a very hearty vote of thanks to Mr McEwan, which i was carried by acclamation. Mr McEwan, in thanking the audience, i said he knew before he came that there was ■ a hearty welcome awaiting him. No man I could wish for a better welcome than that j accorded him whenever he came to South- • land. The St. Andrew’s choir, from Invercargill, I contributed some very fine Scottish songs. I Solos we-re sung by members of the choir, I and a song was given by Mr Tait. Clans- i woman Amos presided at the piano. Chieftain Buchanan accorded a hearty ; vote of thanks to the choir and its leader , for their able assistance in making the even- ■ ing such a success. After a verse of the National Anthem, supper and a haggis, which were very much enjoyed, were handed round, after which a short dance was held. •=■ I