PERSONAL

Wanganui Herald, Volume XXXIX, Issue 11724, 27 November 1905, Page 3

PERSONAL

Sir Joseph Ward passed through Aramoho to-day, en route to New Plymouth, Avhere he to-morrow lays tho ioivndation stone of the new post office.

Mr and Mrs R. T. Batley, of Moawhango, who have just returned from a lengthy visit to Great Britain (after an absence of 28 years) are now staying at Foster's Hotel. Mr Batl-ey was entertained at dinner on Saturday evening by a few of the leading N^ citizens of Wansfanui. His Worship the Mayor (Mr A. G. Bignell), who was fortunately well enough to be present, presided, and extended a hearty welcome to the guest and his good wife on their return to the colony, and expressed the hope that the result of their holiday would be of permanent benefit and a pleasant recolection for many years to come. All Mr Batk»y's ' friends (and their name is legion) will be pleased, said the Mayor, to welcome Mr and Mrs Batley home. Mr Batley, in replying, mentioned that nothing gave him greater pleasure than being amongst his friends once more. He had always, taken a lively interest in Wanganui, and predicted it would develop into a very important town. He had met with nothing but kindness from its citizens, and hoped in the future to be more in touch with its people now that the Central Eailway had reached the point nearest his home. He thanked those present on behalf of Mrs Batley and himself for the thoughtful consideration which prompted them to meet him there that evening.