PRESENTATION.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 5024, 10 June 1884, Page 3

PRESENTATION.

Yesterday evening, at Mr Bonnington's in High street, a number of the members of the Orchestral and Musical Societies met to bid farewell to Messrs J. Coombs and C. W. Clayton, who are about to leave Christchurch. Mr Button, in highly laudatory terms, proposed the health of Mr J. Coombs, whoso loss to the Orchestral Society would, he feared, be irreparable, not only for the ability Mr Coombs possessed a3 a violinist, but for the bonhomie and patience that he had ever shown while connected with the Society. Mr H. H. Loughnan, on behalf of the Musical Society, also acknowledged the many ways in which Mr Coombs had been of service to the cause of music in Christchurch. Mr Button then presented Mr Coombs with a purse of sovereigns, the gift of the two Societies and a few friends. The toast was drunk with musical honours. Mr J. Coombs acknowledged the present in feeling terms. Mr Seager next proposed the health of Mr C. W. Clayton, whom, in a few well chosen sentences, he complimented for his proficiency on the clarionet. Mr R. Trist Searell, as conductor of the Orchestral Society, endorsed all that had been said in praise of Messrs Coombs and Clayton, The toast was drunk with musical honours, and was suitably acknowledged by Mr Clayton. Mr Charles Coombs proposed " The Friends we leave behind us," coupled with the names of Messrs Spensley and Button, who acknowledged the toast. Mr J. Rowley proposed " The health of our host, Mr Bounington." This concluded the proceedings, which had been enlivened by some capital singing from Messrs Bowley and Ellison.