PERSONAL.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume L, Issue 12185, 29 March 1909, Page 4

PERSONAL.

It is with regret we have to announce the death of Mr Francis Henry Gibbons, who passed away at Taihape yesterday. Deceased, who was only 39 years of age, was the eldest son of the late.Mr Samuel Gibbons, of Martin, and had for a number of years been licensee of the Gretna Hotel, Taihape. He was much respect-/ ed by many friends, and he took a lively and public spirited interest in local politics. The news of Mr Gibbons' death, though not unexpected, will be received"" with sincere regret. To the bereaved relatives we tender our sympathy.

At the meeting of the Rugby Union on Saturday evening Mr Walter Empson resigned his position as patron of tho Union. In addition to holding office for very many years on the VVangamii Union, Mr Empson has held the position of President of the New Zealand Union, and has also been a vice-president of that body for a long period. By his departure Wanganui athletes, especially Itugby footballers, will lose an enthusiastic supporter. The Rugby Union, to mark its appreciation of his services, elected Mr Empson its first life member.

J. Arnst, the well-known cyclist, left, Cheviot on Thursday last to accompany his brother, the champion sculler, to Canada and England. Before leaving the Dominion, however, J. Arnst will try to lower the Dunedin-Chi istchurch cycling record, and if he is successful it is his intention to compete in the six days' cycling race to be held in New York next December. Between this and then, in England, the Continent, or America, if there is time apart from looking after his brother's interests, it is his intention to compete in any cycling events that may be suitable.