SOCIAL AND PRESENTATION.

Western Star, 30 August 1918, Page 2

SOCIAL AND PRESENTATION.

When it became known that Aliss Foster was leaving Thornbury it was decided by the residents of that district that she- could not be allowed to go away without receiving sonic •token of esteem from, her numerous friends there. For tins purpose a social was held in the Thornbury ball on Friday evening, tlx© building being literally filled by a large number from all parts of the district. Air Jas. Hamilton presided, and briefly stated the object of the gathering, paying a high tribute to the many excellent . qualities of the guest of the evening, who, by her courtesy and kindness', had made many friends. At a suitable interval in the musical programme which followed he called on Air Camp- ; bell to make the presentation, which that gentleman did in a few wellchosen remarks.

Air Campbell said he was pleased to' see such a large number present to honor their guest. Although many had known her longer than himself, during the time he had been at Thornbury he had very often come into contact with Aliss Foster, .and had always found her willing to assist in all deserving objects. She had been particularly kind to the railway staff, and in times of flood, when traffic was sometimes held up, it was not too much trouble to Aliss Foster to assist in making the railway officials comfortable. The Foster family had been identified with Thornbury for many years, and they were known throughout the whole of New Zealand. In asking Aliss Foster to accept a present from her friends he concluded by expressing the best wishes for her future happiness. The presents consisted of a magnificent gold pendant set with diamonds and opals, a dressing case, and set of ebony brushes. Air F. J. Linscott said it was gratifying to see so many present to do honor to Miss Foster. As a member of the Fanners’ Union and Western 1 District A. and P. Association h© had v often come into contact with Aliss. Foster, as the meetings in past years were held at the hotel, and sbei always gave a. hearty welcome and had abright fire burning on their arrival. That the hotel was always properly conducted was testified to by Constable Carroll and a Alinister of Religion, the latter expressing regret that the hotel wa.s changing hands. Alias ‘ Foster was a worthy daughter of worthy parents, and he concluded by wishing her every happiness in her new holme.

Mi’ D. McFarlane said the project of giving a send-off to Miss Foster was eagerly taken up, the large audience that evening being a sufficient 'indication of the popularity of their guest. It was a pity that kind tilings were only said when people were going away. In Miss Foster’s case, however, it was different, as during her sojourn in Thornbury she was well known, for her kindness—ini fact, kindness was a characteristic feature of the Foster family! He trusted Miss Foster would have long life and happiness. Mr B. Hancock, a.s one of the oldest, friends of the family, endorsed the remarks made by the previous speakers. He was glad toi say that Miss Foster was not going far away. She would live with her sister, Mrs Baird, and $ hearty welcome would always be extended to her friends in her new home. The speaker also took the opportunity of apologising for Mr F. 0. Mills, who was unable to. be present that evening to do honour to the departing guest. Mr C. A. Foster, in a few wellchosen remarks, returned thanks on behalf of his sister. The musical portion, of the programme was an excellent one, a. iiulmher of ladies and! gentlemen from Invercargill taking part. The opening number comprised a mandoline and pianoforte duet by Misses dishy and Collins. Mr Arthur rendered “The Deathless Army,” and in response 'to an encore gave “ The Storm Fiend.” A violin solo by Mr Jas. Harvey was well received, and Mr Halliday brought down the house with two humorous recitations. .Miss Officer was heard to' advantage in “ When you cclm.e Home,” and had to respond to a vociferous encore. Encores were also given by Miss Arthur and Miss Bettridge. The former was most successful in her rendering of “ Tosti’s Good-bye” and “Annie Laurie.” Miss Bettridge’s numbers were “The Long White Cloud” ■and “ Life’s May Time.” The accompaniments were nicely played by Miss Colling. At the termination of the concert a " hearty vote of thanks was accorded the performers and to Mbs Urquhart, the latter giving the use of her piano. A first-class supper was then handed round, and a pleasant two hours were spent in dancing, Mr Wohlers acting in the capacity of M.O.