THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY.

Temuka Leader, Issue 1110, 26 May 1883, Page 2

THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY.

Last Thursday, being the 64th anniversary of the Queen’s birthday, was observed throughout the colony as a public holiday. All the shops in Terauka were closed. The weather was not all that could be desired. Very heavy rain fell on the previous night, and the morning was dull, heavy and threatening up to 11 o’clock, when it cleared up. The day was fine from that hour till 4 p.m., when it commenced to rain, and continued so until about midnight. Owing to the previous night’s rain, the ground was very wet, and wherever one went he met pools of water and puddles. THE TEMUKA VOLUNTEERS. The annual prize firing of the Temuka Volunteers took place last Thursday at the rifle range. There was a good attendance, and the prizes were well competed for. The Volunteers, while not engaged in firing, amused themselves with playing football, in which a good many civilians also took part, and everything passed off agreeably. The following is the result of the shoot-

THE BALL. The annual ball was held in the Torn uka Volunteer Hall in the evening, and it was fairly attended, but not so well as on previous years, the cause being doubtless the inclemency of the weather. Dancing commenced shortly after 9 o’clock, and 1 was kept up unflagging to a late hour. Mr L. Tombs catered in his usually satisfactory style, the refreshments being really good. The music of Messrs Reckingham, violinists, and Mr Levens, pianist, was all that could he desired. At 1 a,m. the prizes won were distributed, Major Young presided at the distribution of prizes, and they wore given away by Miss Young, as follows : Private Watt, Emu Cup ; Corpl. Levens, Marble Clock ; Private E. Smith, Butter Cooler; Corporal Hobbs, Buckhorn Teapot; Lieutenant Findlay, Cruet; Corporal H. E. Smith,- Crown Brewery Cup ; Private OlHvier, Teapot; Sergeant Guy, Pair Cruets (Wo ori head’s) ; Sergeant Smith, Butter Dish; Lieutenant White, Biscuit Basket ; Private Franks, Writing Desk; Sergeant Woodhead, Pair Vases; Private McNally, Pair Boots; Private Larcombe, Clock; Private Whitehead, Handkerchief Bex and Oilcloth ; Private Burrows, Hunting Crop ; Private Nicholas, Bridle; Private Clinch, Flask; Private Binley, Pipe; Private Thomson, Fat Sheep (Thomson’s); Private Langridge, Box S.ap; Private Spooner, Musical Instrument; Private Heap, Butter Dish ; Private Sheen, Quilt; Color-Sergeant Ooira, Fat Sheep (Paterson’s); Bugler Langridge, Large Looking Glass ; Priv ate Valender, Small Looking Glass ; Piivate Beri, Pair Mugs ; Piivate Langskail, Decanter ; Private Harfield, Fat Sheep (Demuth’s); Private Mason, Pig (Parks’s); Private Uprichard, Sucking Pig and Mr Aspinall’s Cup for lowest score. After the distribution qt jprizes, Lieutenant Findlay said that, on behalf of the Company, he had to perform the pleasing duty of presenting Major Young with an address, He then read the following address “ To Captain John Albert Young, “ The Members ot the No, 1' Company Temuka Rifle Volunteers desire to record their high estimation of the zeal and energy displayed by Captain Young during the last fifteen years you have been an officer of the Corps ; and also congratu’ato you on the recent promotion of Major, which lias been conferred upon you by the Government. With the bes‘ ?; wishes (qr yqur iuture welfare,

we are, on behalf of No. 1 Company Temuka Rifle Volunteers, « James Finlay, Lieutenant ; “ R. White, Sub-Lientenint.” Major Young said in reply This comes rather unexpectedly on me. It is only an hour since I knew of it, so I am not prepared to say what I wish. I will do so through your Commanding Officer, and you shall hear it on parade. I have spent many years amongst you, and may say they have been the happiest of my life. I thank you very sincerely. Lieutenant White moved a vote of thanks to Miss Young for having disdistributed the prizes, which was carried by acclamation, ibis completed the ceremony, and dancing was resumed. We should not omit to mention that the hall was splendidly decorated, for which credit must be given to Sub-Lieutenant R. White, and the whole proceedings passed off most agreeably. GERALDINE. The anniversary of the birth of our Gracious Sovereign the Queen, was right loyally observed in Geraldine. All business was suspended, and the residents gave themselves up to pleasure, bo far as the weather would permit. The Oddfellows’ sports were well supported, and the Presbyterian soiree proved a grand success. The ball in the Oddfellows’ Hall was all that could be desired. Oddfellows’ Sports. The annual sports of this Society took place in the domain, kindly lent for the occasion, and taking the threatening appearance of the weather during the early part of the day, and the heavy downpour of rain during the previous night, into account the attendance was quite as large as could be expected. As the sun made its appearance shortly after noon a fair sprinkling of ladies were attracted to the ground, to witness some of the best sports ever held in Geraldine. There can be no doubt that the Oddfellows’ sports are being regarded as quite an institution, which is gaining favor and popularity inthe district. There is no doubt the heavy state of the ground influenced the results of many of the contests, giving the victory to the strong hard muscle, and too soonj exhausting the young and eager competitors, but as this is one of the accidents to which all are at some time liable, it is to be hoped this day s work will not be allowed to damp the ardor of those who this time must submit to defeat. The following are the results of the various events: — 100 Yards Handicap Race. First prize ' 20a ; second prize, 10s. C. Hammond ... 1 E. S. Smith 2 R, Lecknera very good third, 100 Yards Girls Race ; for girls under 16 years. First prize, 6s; second prize, 4s. Miss Earl ••• * Miss Warde 2 Running High Jump. First prize, 20s ; second prize, 10s. J, Henny and G. Rae divided. 440 Yards Handicap Race. First prize, 40s; second prize, 20s. E.S. Smith ••• 1 R. Leckner 2 —Reece 3 A very close race between these three. Vaulting with the Pole, first prize, 20s ; second prize, 10s. G. Rae ... 1 C. Hammond 2 220 Yards Handicap Race, for members of the “Victoria Lodge,” 1.0.0. F. only. First prizo, framed Diploma ; second prize, unframed Diploma. A. Owles * J, Stringer ... ••• ••• ••• 2 Seven started in this race and all acquitted themselves injsplendid style. Wrestling. First prize, 60s j second piize 30s. —Robinson 1 W. Bowerbank ... 2 Six entered for this con teat—Robinson, W. Bowerbank, Pattison, Huddleston, Haywood, and Quaid, and the admirable manner in which each man faced his opponent, and displayed his knowledge of the art brought down rounds of applause from the spectators, which must have been in the highest degree satis factory to those who retired from the ring without the coveted reward, 220 Yards Handicap Race. First prize, 30s; second, 20s. E. S. Smith 1 J, W. Velvin 2 Hop, Step and Jumt. First prize, 20s ; t second, 10s. J. Henny \ G, Rae - 2 220 Yards Race, for boys under 16 years. First prize, 10s ; second, ss. W. Byce ••• 1 H. Lucas ." 2 Married Womens Race, first prize, box of tea ; second, dress piece. Six entries. Mrs Mclntyre ... 1 Mrs Harrison 2 * 880 Yards Handicap Race E. S. Smith 1 T. MtGillicuddy 2 Five star(#d.

Baby Show. This exhibition created immense fun and excitement, and proved, without a doubt, to the most sceptical, the ad van* tages to be gained in living in such a healthy and salubrious spot as Geraldine. As each claimant put in an apperance, a quick survey of its special points and appearance in general took place, and the alternating expressions depicted on the countenances of the maternal proprie tors was something to behold. To see the bright eyes of the tender mother appealing to the judges ns each one passed before them must have given bachelors the heart ache, and wish to add their bottom dollar to make each one the first prizelaker. But it is of no use ; those inexorable arbiters of human nature, who preside over the merits and dements of this kind of property, will have their way, and so the verdict went forth as follows Baby Sheridan

Baby C. Pye . The weather coming on unfavorable, with a darkening misty rain, the remaining portion of the programme was abandoned, and the assemblage dispersed, well satisfied with themselves and everybody else, especially with the sports. Presbyterian Church, In the Oddfellows’ Hall, Geraldine, the Presbyterian annual soiree took place last Thursday night. The hall was very tastefully decorated. The tea meeting was very largely attended notwithstanding the inclemency of the weather, and the tables were presided over by the ladies of the congregation. After the tea the public meeting took place, the hall being quite full. On the platform were the Rev« G. Barclay, S: Preston, Todd (Oamaru), and Hayes, and Messrs A. Sherratt, C. Sherralt, T. Hughes, N. Dunlop and others. The Rev. G. Barclay'presided. The Misses Fish played a piece of music on the piano in their usually brilliant and pleasing style. The Rev. Chairman said he was pleased to see so many present. They might perhaps remember that he was not with them last year, but was somewhere about Cape Horn, and through the Providence of God he was with them again. The objects of such meetings were various, one ofjwhich was to bring persons together from a distance to renew old acquaintance and friendship. Another was to give officebearers an opportunity to give a statement of some of the affairs of the Church, but not to inflict a mixed audience such as this with the tedium of dry details. He was glad, though some speakers were unavoidably absent, he was still supported with so many gentlemen who were really eloquent and first-rate speakers. It was somewhat difficult to carry on Church affairs at the present time, as all Elders, Churchwardens, Vestrymen, and Deacons, could testify. Similar professions required no such meetings as this to carry them on, neither did false religions, such as JBudnism, and other false doctrines Christians were only one to four of the world’s" population, but it was not the great numbers that won the battle at Alma, and did many other deeds of daring. It was won by, comparatively speaking, a handful of men. So Christians, though few, must not give up, but be faithful td their Christian birthright, no matter to what section of the Christian Church they belonged. He could not change his views of the cause of our dear Redeemer, and therefore trusted to see every Christian man, woman, and child, contending to uphold the faith, and carry on the work of the Saviour. (Applause.) The Choir sang 1 Behold how good and joyful.’ The Rev Mr Hayes said he was glad to meet them that night. He was pleased with' the Chairman’s opening remarks. They were as a key note that brought to his mind so me thoughts of the duties of professing Christians. One important matter claimed special attention. Although Churches were numerous in Geraldine, yet they were not so well filled as he could wish. There was either much to be dona or undone to bring a greater attendance to Divine worship. In such a meeting as this there might perhaps be some who did not attend Divine worship. Could not something be done to bring them and others to attend the services of the Church 1 It was said there were too many sects, but it was lost sight of that all in the Churches in the performance of Divine and solemn worship of God were one. Much depended on the ministry, but not all. A warm and sympathetic shake of the hand would in many cases find its way to the heart of many a one who now feel they have no interest in the cause of Jeans Christ; and if this will not do, if they toll not come to the Saviour, it is the duty of the churches to go to them and urge them to come into the fold; It is a service of love and charity, and he hoped every section of the church would exercise its utmost powers to bring the erring ones into the knowledge of Christ, the Loid. The Choir sang, “ 0 that I had wings ”

The Treasurer, Mr Dunlop, made a few remarks on the state of the affairs of the Church. In the beginning of January, 1882, they had a debit balance of £29 3s 6d. At the present time the balance stands at £172, arising in a great measure from having purchased a new site for a Church in town. There were also a good many subscriptions in arrears, and he hoped the friends would not allow this to

remain any longer. He had letters from several distant parts of the parish, in which they expressed their willingness, if the townspeople did their part, to assist in clearing off all liabilities of the Church, and he therefore appealed to all Presbyterians present to come forward at once and pay up arrears and put their shoulders to the wheel afresh, so that ere long a new and beautiful temple might be erected on the new site.

The Choir sang “ Jerusalem, my glorious home.”

Mr Robert Irvine said that when a man cannot say anything, the sooner he stops the better. He left them to take out the wit of his remarks from their brevity. The difficulties connected with the Church were something like climbing the mountains ; they no sooner got to the top of one than there was another. However, he hoped all would continue to work without flagging, as it was certain when they were done the Divine Master would raise up others to carry on the glorious work. The Misses Fish then played a selection of music on the piano. The Rev J. Preston said it afforded him great pleasure to see Mr Barclay again. It was a cause of great thankfulness that all sections of the Church in Geraldine were in harmony with each other, and he hoped that feeling would never be broken, After an amusing anecdotal and practical discourse the speaker urged upon the audience the necessity of working heartily for God, and his admonitions were most heartily appreciated by the audience. The Choir sang “Hear my prayer.” Mrs Glass and Miss Andrews then sang a duet, “My Mother’s Dream,” and were loudly applauded. The Rev Mr Todd (Oamaru), said it gave him pleasure to be present to see his old friends, their pastor and chairman, and to meet so many friends. In such entertainments there was pleasure in giving and receiving, and he had no doubt the ladies had the double pleasure, although they had the greater trouble in providing and administering the creature comforts. Such meetings as this tended to much pleasure and profit, It was a great cause of thankfulness to see different sections of the Church meet together as in this meeting. Eveay day brought its duties. Every Sabbath day brought to our recollection the death and resurrection of our Lard and Saviour. The service of the Church was a great source through which the blessings and grace from above were conveyed to diligent and earnest seekers. The speaker urged upon his bearers to be very careful and particular. The next point of his remarks was directed to the young in an earnest, practical and interesting manner. The speech was listened to with the closest attention, and at its ’conclusion the speaker was most heartily cheered. The Choir sang “ Exnlt Him.” Votes of thanks were heartily given to the ladies for the tea, the choir and the Misses Fish, the speakers and the Chairman ; also to those who had so prettily decorated the hall for the occasion. The singing of “ God Save the Queen,” and the pronouncing of the Benediction ter» minated the proceedings. * THE GRAND NATIONAL STEEPLE. CHASE. The Grand National Steeplechase Meeting was held on the Timaru race course, last Thursday, but it could scarcely be called a success. Owing to the previous mght’s rain the ground was very heavy, and the racing was a difficult matter, the horses having, literally speaking, to plough the course over which they had to travel. The attendance too, was meagre, much less than at the district steeplechases on previous years. This probably was due in a groat measure to the fact that the weather was so unfavorable, but there is no doubt but that there is an apparent want ol public spirit in the district, as races ' are never so well patronised in Timaru as they are in other places. The Grand National was the only race of the day worth looking at. A fiald of five started, but these soon dwindled down to the three placed. These three horses showed wonderful staying powers, for they had to go over ground in which for the most pait they sank to their fetlocks. They took the jumps notwithstanding this, splendidly, and came in gamely, and very close together at the finish. The other races are not worth referring to. The following are the results :— 1

New Zealand Grand National Handicap, of 200 sovß, with a sweepstake of 5 sovs each for acceptors, to go to the second horse ; about four miles. Mr H. C. Adams’ b h Kosciusko, Gyre, 10st (Sheehan) 1 Mr 11. Lunn’s ch g Canard, 6yrs, 12st Gib (Owner) 2 Mr P. Butler’s b h Quamby, Gyrs, list 81b... (Lyford) 3 Mr J. Pilbrow’s b g Clarence, aged, 13st (Connor)’ and Rarbary, Gyrs, lOst (Martin), also ran. There were 122 investors on the inside totalise or, 14 being on the winner a dividend of £7 16s being paid. On the outside machine there were 221, 27 on the winner; dividend, £7 7s. j 9>J "" i

Maiden Plate of 100 sovs, with a sweopstake of 5 sovs each for acceptors, to go to the second horse ; weight for age ; about two miles. Mr A. Frisby’s b g Captain, syrs, list 121 b (4 rmstrong) 1 Mr E. Hill’s b g Master Morris, (late Te Whiti), 12st 31b (Hedge) 2 Mr R. Rutherford's Commissioner (late Dexter), 12st 31b (Joyce) also started. There were 73 subscribers at £1 each on the inner totalisator, 31 on the winner, the dividend being £2 2s, On the outside machine 182 subscribers, 63 on the winner ; dividend £2 7s. Hunt Club Cup of 100 sovs, with a sweepstake of 5 sovs each for acceptors to go to the second horse ; weight for age , amateur riders, about 71b ; about three miles. Mr J. Pilbrow’s Clarence, aged, 12st 31b (H. Lunn) 1 Mr P. Jones’ Waverly, 4yrs, list (Owner) 2 Mr H. Lunn’s ch g Canard, list 121 b, was scratched. There were 14 investors in the inside totalisator, and 10 on the winner, the dividend being £1 ss. On the outside there were 46 investors, 27 on the winner, dividend, £1 7s. Consolation Handicap of 50 sovs, added to a sweepstake of 5 sovs each for acceptors ; about two miles. Mr J. Rutherford’s Commissioner, lOst 41b (Sheenan) 1 . Mr P. Butler’s Quamby, list (Lyford), and Mr P. Jones’ Waverly, lOst (Owner), also started. Mr Lunn’s Canard, 12st 41b, was scratched. There were 90 subscribers in the inside machine, 23 of which were on the winner a dividend of £3 10s being paid. In the outside machine there were 65, 14 of which were on the winner, the dividend being the saujß as on the, other machine viz., £3 10s.

mg : — to to CO 13 13 f* •a O O O *! O O O O CM. T* io H Private Watt ... ... 24 24 21-69 Corporal Levens ... 21 26 18—65 Private E. Smith ... 21 22 21-64 Corporal Hobbs ... 25 22 14-61 Lieut. Findlay... ... 19 22 19-60 Corporal H. E Smith,.. .20 14 22—56 Private Ollivicr ... 21 2G 14-55 Sergeant Guy ... ... 21 16 17-54 Sergeant Smith ... 18 20 16—54 Lieut. White ... ... 21 14 17—52 Private Franks ... 17 24 11-52 Sergeant Woodbead ... 21 23 8-52 Private McNally ... 16 15 -20-51 Private Larcombe ... 18 19 13-50 Private Whitehead .... 18 17 13—48 Private Burrows ... 10 15 18-43 Private Nicholas ... 17 19 7-43 Private Clinch... ... 19 17 7—43 Private Binley... ... 18 15 6-39 Private Thomson ... 10 24 4-38 Private Langridge ... 15 9 13-37 Private Spooner ... 17 16 4-37 Private Heap ... ... 14 8 12-34 Private Sheen ... ... 15 16 2-33 Oolor-Sergt. Coira ... 17 11 4-32 Bugler Langridge ... 16 6 5-27 Private Yalender ... 9 10 5—24 Private Beri ... ... 6 13 4-23 Private Langskail ... 8 12 2-22 Private Harfield ... 11 10 0—21 Private Mason... ... 8 0 0- 8 Private Uprichard ... 4 2 0- 6