FAREWELL SOCIAL

Waipa Post, Volume VI, Issue 305, 14 April 1914, Page 3

FAREWELL SOCIAL

Despite the inclemency of the weather, a very good number of people attended at the new auction mart (kindly lent by Messrs.

R. Arthur and Co. for the occa-

sion) last Wednesday evening, to L- bid farewell to Mr and Mis. Lamond, who are leaving Te Awamutu for new duties, near Auckland. Mr Dent was chairman, and in #iis opening remarks referred to the matter that had brought so many friends together, and spoke in eulogistic terms of Mr Lamond. He also read apologies from the Revs. Clarke and Shaw who were obliged to attend to other duties. The proceedings were of a varied character, a programme interspersed with Anthem, solos, recitations, and readings being rendered, beside the speeches of those who were co-workers, and with whom Mr and Mrs Lamond were intimately associated. Mr McGechie, in a brief, well-

chosen, and appropriate speech,

alluded to the esteem in which The departing Mr and Mrs Lamond were held, and commented upon the system in vogue in the Methodist connection re the exchanges of circuits. He held the opinion that the changes were beneficial, though it necessitated a severance of personal friendship and he was sure that in this case that Mr and Mrs Lamond in fulfilling their duties in a new sphere would not have much time for vain regrets in leaving Te Awamutu, not that they were unmind-

ful or unthankful —but because

their particular work was of such *an engrossing character, that there was no time for regrets. Of one thing he was certain, —that during the four years Mr Lamond

had undertaken the ministry in the Methodist church he had discharged the duties incumbent upon him thoroughly; there had been a good deal to contend with, the work had been arduous, but all difficulties had been met with a cheerful spirit. In conclusion Mr McGechie wished them every success in their new call and his prayer was that blessing attend them in their noble work. Other speakers followed much in the same strain, including Rev Stewart, Father Lynch (whose facetious remarks caused amusement), and Mr. 0. Price Owen. The evening was well advanced when the chairman called upon Mr Lamond to accept a purse of sovereigns from the members and friends of the Te Awamutu com-

munity, as a token of their regard and for his amiable qualities.

tje&b At this particular juncture, Mrs in a quiet speech, made reference to the good disposition possessed by Mrs Lamond, and on behalf of the ladies begged her acceptance of a handsome silver cake-dish. A burst of applause greeted the pair as they stood in the centre of the gathering the cynosure of attention. Mr Lamond, very much moved at the ovation, said that the circumstances made reply a very difficult thing, but though words ware inadequate, yet his was on behalf of himself and Mrs Lamond to thank them very much for the generous tokens of which

they were the happy recipients. t recalled many reminiscences jis four years’ ministry; and shed by remarking on the happy co-operation extended to him by others, and this had led the success, and hoped also efficiency of his labour. Supper was handed round —• which had been supplied by the ladies, and greatly to their credit, for it proved very enjoyable. The singing of the customary hymn and benediction terminated the evening’s programme.

Mr and Mrs Lamond left Te Awamutu the following morning. Many friends were present at the railway station for a parting grip of the hand, and to wish them God-speed.