GOOD TEMPLAR'S OPEN LODGE MEETING, IN THE FORRESTERS' HALL, MASTERTON.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume 2, Issue 244, 21 August 1879, Page 2

GOOD TEMPLAR'S OPEN LODGE MEETING, IN THE FORRESTERS' HALL, MASTERTON.

BY OUR SPECIAL BEPOETER. On Tuesday evening, about 7.30, whilst walking up Queen-street, our crier's bell was ringing lustily through the darkness. After a little, in'a clear and cheery voice, he announced the above meeting. His manner was so earnest, that it plainly told me he must. be a member and that he wished all within hearing to attend; my curiosity was excited. I had thought of going to the Council Chambers, where I have often spent a pleasant hour, listening to the various remarks of our Councillors, but a public meeting of Good Templars was before unknown to me, so this had the preference. When near the Hall I was pleased to see several outside, as if unablo to get in, this was cheering, as it

is so much better btiing where there is a good attendance; the speakers seem to express themselves : better and it gives a cheerfulness to the proceedings. The Hall was well filled, and after a few fitting remarks from the Chairman, MrKingdon, telling the object of the Society,'which was to arrest the progress of .intemperance and the evils which alcohol was daily doing to our fellows, he referred to Dr S. Beard of this Borough in a very kindly manner, and felt that all present esteemed it a very great favor that he had consented to address them that evening, Dr Beard then gave a lecture, which was listened to throughout with marked attention. He treated on intemperance, and reasoned on the subject from a medical point of view.

_ Mr T. 0. D'Arcy was glad that the Society had given the public an opportunity of attending a meeting like the present one, he also expressed some ideas with force, clearly and well.

The Kev. Mr Dellow showed the rapid progress the Society had mado in this colony; the importance of counter attractions for good which, should be an inducement for men to keep from the public houses so as to be away from the temptation of alcohol. He referred to Dr Beard's lecture in very high terms. Mr Dellow's manner commands attention: one feels when listening tohim, that he is expressing the conviction of his mind.

Mr Easthope gave two readings, which were well received, Mr Greaves, jun. sang us a song with much pathos. Miss Jones sang a song very pleasantly. The Kev, Mr Dellow also sang a piece, which was well received. After a few remarks from the Chairman, Mr Easthope, and one or two others, the meeting concluded with singing.