AU REVOIR.

Waipawa Mail, Volume XLVI, Issue 72, 6 March 1925, Page 3

AU REVOIR.

Though the dominant notes ill a farewell function must necessarily lie hi a “minor” strain, the garden party given by Mrs' H. M. Rathbone at “Abbotsford” yesterday, the most cheery of its kind, resolved the key Tito a “major” cadence ill its adaptation of the time-honored sentiment of “speeding the parting” of Mrs (Dr.) Todd and Miss Ida Todd, who con-

template leaving the Dominion for the Homeland by the lonic. The handsome reception rooms at “Abbotsford” were prettily decorated with howls .of' tiger lilies and ferns, and 'he lawns were occupied from time to time with players of competition croquet. Cosy “resting places” furnished with luxurious chairs and settees, held groups of older friends, amongst whom Mrs Todd paused from time to time, joining in conversation that by turns was reminiscent, grave and gay. Miss Rathbone presided at the tea-time function and a bevy of girl friends dispensed it. liter tea Miss Lee contributed a iianoforte solo, Mrs Arthur Rathbone sang twice, and lifter a short pause, softly breaking the silence, Cell the opening bars of “Home, Sweet Home,” followed by “Scotch Airs" and “Irish Airs” played with deep sympathy by Mrs Todd. Opportunity was taken by Mrs Rathbone to ask Mrs and Miss Todd’s acceptance of parting gifts, offered by their friends. She voiced the hearty good wishes of all present for a pleasant voyage, safe landing and a speedy return of the travellers, together with deep appreciation of past and present friendship. Musical honors were accorded.

Mrs Todd briefly responded on behalf of herself and her daughter, with appreciative thanks and expressions of most pleasing memories to carry away and retain. \ igorous hand clappings ensued. Following a happy .suggestion, a ring of all present was formed on the lawn, and “Auld Lang Syne” was sling in hearty fashion, and the company dispersed with final good wishes and warm hand-shakes -as they left the guests of the afternoon Standing on the lawn;

During Mrs Todd’s long residence in Waipawa she has been closely identified with local church and philanthropic institutions, especially where youth and infancy are concerned, and will he much missed, until her return.