VALEDICTORY.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume I, Issue 35, 18 March 1914, Page 8

VALEDICTORY.

MB JAMES YOUNG FAREWEIXED A very pleasant gathering of horticulturists and others was\ held in the Cadena tea rooms last evening when a farewell social was tendered Mr James Young, the Domain Board's head gardener, on the occasion of his departure to the Old Country on holiday. Mr C. A. C. Cunningham occupied the ehair, * and an apology for absence was received from the chairman of the Domain Board, Mr H. J. Beswick. The Mayor, Mr Holland, was unable to be present at the commencement, but arrived later in the evening. After the loyal toast, '' The King,'' had been duly honoured, Mt W. Jones proposed ' 1 Horticulture.'' He said it was gratifying to note the increase of interest in horticulture all over the civilised world. In every newspaper picked up nowadays, there was some mention of horticulture. He thought it only appropriate that they should meet and wish good luck to the one who occupied the position of chief horticulturist of the city. If Mr Young possessed only one attribute it was' enthusiasm.

Mr J. Wyn Irwin, in responding, said the delights obtained from horticulture were far any other hobby. The improvements made in the gardens under Mr Yourg's hands had been an eye-opener. He thought the rose carnival was a happy idea, for he was quite sure hundreds went to see it who never patronised exhibitions in buildings. The people of Christchurch owed a debt of gratitude to the pioneers for giving them domains and the large,, parks round the city. The toast of "Our Guest" was proposed by Mr C. 3>. Morris, who recalled Christchurch 41 years ago, and traced its progress from the wilderness it was then. Now it was one of the most beautiful spots in New Zealand. The foresight, perseverance, and industry of Mr Young had done what no one else could have done. Ho hoped Mr Young- would on his trip Home increase his store of knowledge, and Christcliurch would benefit by his experience. He trusted the city would long retain his services. He wished Mr Young a good voyage and a pleasant holiday. Mr Young, in responding, said that, he intended to visit the gardens of IJnglanc!, Ireland, Scotland, and France, and he hoped to return with new ideas. He thanked the gathering for the compliments paid him. Cheers were given for Mr and Mrs Youmg and ''Jimmy." Other toasts honoured during the evening were "Our City," proposed by Mr S. A. Staples and responded to by Mr R. Nairn; "The Domain Board,'' proposed by the chairman and responded to by the Mayor. During the evening, an orchestra, under Mr Sinclair, gave several highly appreciated items, and Messrs v_Macdonald, Smith, and Tidyman also entertained the company with songs and recitations.

Mr Young departs on his trip on Thursday.