BOOKS AND FANCY GOODS

Southland Times, Issue 24003, 19 December 1939, Page 11

BOOKS AND FANCY GOODS

WHITCOMBE & TOMBS LTD. Attracted by the huge cut-out of Father Christmas which towers above the building itself, one is intrigued to investigate thoroughly the store which so gaily decorates its premises, for here is radiated the spirit of Christmas. That same spirit is in evidence inside the store for there appears no shortage of goods at Whitcombe and Tombs, Ltd., whose progressive policy has again succeeded in placing within easy reach of the buying public a distinctive and comprehensive range of gifts of quality at prices which seem on a par with last year’s. Unmistakably carrying the mark of quality these goods should delight the most discriminating buyer and recipient, adult and juvenile alike. Books are brightly displayed on shelf and table; books of travel, mystery, humour and of general interest. “The ideal gift” as booksellers are prone to call a book, may well have had its origin here, for you could choose a book gift for each of your friends from this fascinating display and feel more than satisfied that your selection would be appreciated. If the appeal is for other than books, one is impressed with the profusion of Stationery Novelties such as Notepaper and Envelopes gaily and tastefully boxed to tone, bright and picturesque Calendars, dainty table stationery in presentation packings, note and engagement books and all in a range of prices to suit all purses.

At the Fountain Pen counter, there is the usual bustle, for this modern necessity seems more in demand than ever; for what is better for man or woman than a reliable fountain pen or

an everpointed propelling pencil. This store guarantees every pen sold thus presenting an opportunity for one to obtain a nib suitable to one’s hand. Proceeding further, a buyer is confronted with a dazzling display of Chinaware, Crystal, Leather and Fancy novelties displayed so attractively that selection is an easy matter. Fascinating figures are expertly embodied in Book Ends, Ash Trays and other decorative utility articles eminently suitable as gifts. Ladies’ Handbags of a quality which Whitcombe’s always maintain are again a feature of the Fancy Department and no effort has been spared to keep the selection up to its usual high standard. The requirements of the juvenile are catered for in the upstairs section of this progressive store. A wealth of Children’s Books which feature all the popular fairy folk, stories real and fanciful, for children of all ages hold an irresistable appeal to the buyer of gifts designed to delight the juvenile heart. This year’s shortage of toys is not reflected in the Children’s department for the shelves and tables are crammed with new and novelty toys and games. Toys featuring modern warfare, Meccanos, Hornby Train Sets, Tricycles, Dolls Prams, in fact toys of

every description. But let us not overlook the Dolls which present an attraction of their own. Daintily and fashionably dressed, from Scotch Lassie to Modern Miss, the dolls have such realistic looks that a girl is justified in asking “Santa” for one of Whitcombe’s dolls. Whitcombe and Tombs Ltd. are to be commended on their display of utility gifts and a friendly and efficient staff make a visit to this store not only a shopping expedition, but a pleasure, indeed.