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Observer, Volume XXXIV, Issue 23, 14 February 1914, Page 9

A fearful fascination has the Thames for old Thames residents and ex-residents. Old West Coasters have been quoted and their loyalty and love for that far away and rugged coast home is proverbial, but for rousing enthusiasm the Old Thames boys and girls lead easily for love of their old home. The Old Thames Boys' gatherings, held periodically, are eagerly attended by far away strangers to the Thames and artists vie with each other to help the entertainments along, a sterling spirit pervades the whole throng. A big Re-union of Old Thamesites that gladdened the hearts of many an old timer took place a couple of years back and ever since that occasion the participators in that gathering and their many friends are clamouring for more. Acting on the suggestion the executive of the Old Thames Boys' Association have inaugurated another cheap excursion to the Thames by the evergreen Wakatere, leaving at 12.45 on Saturday, February 21st, returning the Sunday following at 5 p.m., the fare for adults being 5/- and children 2/6 return. This should ensure a full complement and. the good old Thames will be en fete for the occasion. Mr William H. K. Redmond, M.P. for Clare, and brother of the Irish leader, and Mrs Redmond, will arrive in Auckland next Friday morning by

the outgoing Vancouver mail steamer Marama. He will be welcomed by the Irish residents here on arrival. The Invercargill Hibenian Band will be on the wharf to join in the Avelcome. During the day he will be shown over the City, visiting His Lordship Bishop Cleary. In the Concert Cramber of the Town Hall the public welcome will be given to the eloquent and distinguished parliamentarian whose views at this juncture on Home Rule will be of intrest. There will be no charge for admission. ,

" From the Manger to the Cross," or " Jesus of Nazareth/ is the title of what is literally a "star " film, to be presented at the Princess Theatre, on Monday night next, by the Dominion Picture Co., Ltd. Produced in Palestine itself, amid the scenes where Christ actually lived, at the trifling cost of .£20,000, the picture has inspired an overwhelming chorus of approval and admiration fro.n the Press and public of three worlds, not only on account of its superb mechanical effects, but for the reverence and exquisite delicacy with which its pathetic theme is treated. The Birmingham " Daily Post" describes it as " the world's greatest cinematograph film,'" whilst the " Daily Express " characterises it as "the most remarkable cinematograph film ever produced." Close on the heels of these appreciations come hundreds of others from all classes of the community, perhaps the most convincing and most remarkable of which is the statement made by a London critic that " the people absolutely will not stop away from this picture." That this extraordinary statement is not an exaggeration is proved by the returns, ;ind it is confidently anticipated that the experience of other cities of the world will be the experience also of Auckland next w r eck.

Seventy-five building allotments at Campbell's Beach will be sold by public auction in the- Chamber of Commence, Swanson Street at noon of Friday, March 6, by Mr A. L. Raven, of Darby's Buildings, Queen Street, Auctioneer. The subdivision marks an important advance in the supply of beautiful sea-side homes for city men. Campbell's Beach is situated within walking distance of the Ta' apuna trams and has always been a favourite picnic resort. Its natural beauty has been left a good deal undisturbed. There are magnificent bits of bush and some noble examples of the pohutukawa in the vicinity, terms are moderate : 10 per cent, down, 10 per cent, in a year and the balance within four years at five per cent. All the sections command magnificent views of the sea. There are small orchards on some sections and on two are residences.