PERSONAL

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume LXXXI, Issue 19009, 9 May 1924, Page 4

PERSONAL

Messrs Grierson and Draffin, of the firm of Grierson, Aimer and Draffin, registered architects, Auckland, were in Wanganui yesterday inspecting the model of the Auckland War Memorial and Museum, now being executed by Mr Wm. McLeod, architect, Gonville.

By the last mail news was received in Palmerston North that Miss Mabelle Esquilant, the well-known New Zealand contralto, who left the Dominion just a year ago to further her vocal studies in Europe, is now back in London from the Continent. At present she is studying with Spencer Clay, the eminent coach, who is greatly impressed with her work and beautiful voice, which he considers exceptional. During the time she was on the Continent, Miss Esquilant witnessed grand opera in Paris, Milan, Dresden, and Berlin, and of the performances in these centres she writes in glowing terms. For six months she studied in Romo under Signor Martina, a master of the first rank, who was very enthusiastic over her voice. She was present at a groat performance of “Salome,” under Strauss, when the theatre caught fire, as recently reported by cable.

Membes of the Castlecliff Municipal Fire Brigade—which, with the inauguration of Greater Wanganui, now comes under the Fire Board’s jurisdiction, met on Wednesday evening to make a presentation to their old Superintendent, Mr. A. H. Rogers, in appreciation of tho valuable work done by him. In handing to Mr. Rogers a pipe and tobacco pouch On behalf of the men, Superintendent Williams spoke in eulogistic terms of the work done by the recipient in forming the Brigade and bringing it to such a high state of efficiency. Several members of the Brigade also spoke, thanking the old Superintendent for the interest he had taken in the men and especially for the help he had given in connection with their social gath :rings. Mr. Rogers feelingly replied, saying it was pleasant to know that his efforts had been appreciated, and extending to the members best wishes for the future.