VALEDICTORY.

Waipa Post, Volume VIII, Issue 359, 20 October 1914, Page 3

VALEDICTORY.

Prior to the departure of Mr J. Duncan, who is leaving Te Awarr.utu to join the Expeditionary Forces, he was entertained at the Empire Cafe on Saturday evening.' There were about 20 people present, Mr C. Davis occupying the chair. In a brief speech the chairman explained the object of the gathering, and referred to the many good qualities of their guest, who, he said, would be greatly missed. The royal toast was then proposed and drunk with musical honours.

Mr E. Moeller, in proposing the toast to the guest of the evening said Mr Duncan would be missed both in sporting and musical circles. He had always been willing to help in any way towards any good object. In proposing the toast of “ The Ladies,”. Mr Rule referred to the popularity of Mr Duncan with the fair sex.

Mr W. Douglas, in eulogistic terms, referred to the cordial relations which existed between Mr Duncan and his fellow lodgers at “ Ivanhoe,” and his genial presence would be sadly missed. On behalf of “ the boys ” of Te Awamutu, he presented Mr Duncan with a handsome shaving outfit as a small token of the high esteem in which they held him. Mr Parker, on behalf of the Waipa Hockey Association, said that Mr Duncan had done a great deal to promote hockey in this district. He had proved a useful member to his club, always played the game, and proved himself a sport.

During the evening the following contributed musical items: — Messrs Stitt, Parker and Smith. By special request Mr Rule sang “ Hold your hand out you naughty boy,” for which he received an encore.

In replying Mr Duncan thanked them for all the kind things said about him. He would always look back with pleasure to the happy times spent by him during his two years’ residence in Te Awamutu.

An amusing sketch was given by Mr Stitt. The evening was brought to a close by the singing of patriotic songs, a pleasant time having been spent.