FAREWELL SOCIAL.

Timaru Herald, Volume LXIV, Issue 3205, 8 March 1900, Page 3

FAREWELL SOCIAL.

— A well attended social meeting was held m the Primitive Methodist Ohurch, Waimate, on the evening of the sth instant, to bid farewell to the Rev. Mr Nixon on the occasion of his leaving for New Plymouth, to which circuit he removes by decision of the Conference. The church was well filled on the occasion, and a departure from the usual custom on such occasions was made m that tea andjrefreshmente, were distributed at the close of the meeting instead of at the commencement. The Rev. Mr Nixon occupied the chair, and read apologies for absence from the Rev. Mr Barclay and the Rev. Mr Morrison. Besides members of Mr Wixon's congregation, there were a large number present from other congregations, Mr Nixon having gained the esteem and good wishes of many people m Waimate during the short time of his ministry there. Solos were given by Mrs Nixon and Mrs B. Low ; duets by the Misses Buckingham and by Mrs Nixon and Miss Moses, and a recitation by Miss Wilson. Speeches were given by Mr G. Dash on behalf of the Temperance Society, Rev. Mr Blight on behalf of the Wesleyans, Mr W. Allan for the Presbyterians, expressing their regreat at Mr Nixon's departure, of esteem for him as a co - worker m Christian and social work, and of good wishes for the success and happiness of himself, Mrs Nixon and family m their next circuit, New Plymouth. Mr Loach and Mr G. Fow also on behalf of themselves and Waimate Primitive Methodists, feelingly bade good-bye to their respected pastor. Mr 8. Boreham said that he could not let the opportunity pass without expressing his esteem for Mr Nixon. Although opposed to him on " No License" and other matters, he could not help having a feeling of respect and admiration for his brave and manly stand, and he wished him every success. Mr Nixon spoke of his connection with the Waimate circuit, and thanked his church assistants m every branch for their help during the pastyear. He wished every success to the work of the gospel m Waimate, and hoped that progress and increased work would mark the coming year. Tea was then distributed, after which Mrs Nixon sang " God defend New Zealand " m her usual excellent voice and style. Votes of thanks were given to singers, speakers, Mies Nixon (organist), and all who helped the meeting, which closed by all joining m singing " God be with you till we meet again."