AUCKLAND.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume VIII, Issue 48, 28 November 1891, Page 633

AUCKLAND.

Dear Bee, November 17. The children attending Miss Scott’s juvenile classes terminated their season with a plain and fancy dress ball in the Choral Hall. Upwards of one hundred and thirty pupils were present dancing, while the orchestra seats and gallery were crowded with the parents, grown-up friends, and interested spectators of the youthful dancers. The sight presented to the lookers on was indeed a charming one, the gaily decorated hall adding not a little to the beauty of the scene. The walls were covered with palm branches, fern fronds, and bright evergreens, amongst which were tastefully arranged white lilies and other floweis in the greatest profusion. Miss Scott is, I understand, indebted to the boys principally for the lovely flowers and beautiful decorations, and especially so to Masters P. Cousins, J. Whitelaw, Cecil Leys, Archie Dennes, W. Allen, Roy Cooper, and C. Hemus, who worked hard. Garlands of beautiful flowers extended across the hall from side to side, from which depended lovely wreaths, the work of Masters Cecil Leys and Archie Dennes. A handsome archway of evergreens and flowers was placed at the top of the hall, under which the dancers passed in the opening march, led by Master Edgar Hewsen, a very tiny gentleman, and Miss Amy Scott, an equally tiny maiden. One of the prettiest features of the evening was the fairy fern dance, in which twenty-six girls took part, all attired in fairy costume, each carrying a large fern frond, and singing meanwhile. The dance is sweetly pretty, and requires to be seen to be fully appreciated. In one figure bowers were formed with the fern fronds, and two dainty fairy queens—little Alice McDonald and Amy Scott, wee mites of seven— danced through them. In another figure the fairies gracefully recline on the floor, while the two tiny queens bend over them waving their ferns, and all singing in subdued voices a very pretty lullaby. Again two lines were formed, and two yonng princes made their appearance—Masters M. Cossar and F. Scott—and, taking the little queens for partners, dance through the lines a stately mwiaet with the utmost grace and dignity. The fairies finished with other figures equally pretty, not one mistake being made throughout. At the conclusion of the dance the hearty applause received from the audience should have gratified every little heart. Indeed, the dance wasone of the prettiest sights I havewitnessed for a longtime, and the opinion of spectators on every side coincided with mine. Nine sets also danced the French cotillon very gracefully. Miss Scott must, indeed, be a painstaking and clever instructress, for all the children seemed to dance perfectly, and their dignified and quiet behaviour, and the absence of the undignified romping which is so often seen at juvenile dances, were the subjects for much favourable comment on the part of the spectators. It would be impossible to name each child individually, but all looked fresh and dainty. White frocks predominated, and the effect was eharming. Several young ladies danced with the little ones, and some of Miss Scott’s gentlemen friends were very assiduous in their attentions to them. Indeed, all devoted themselves to making the children happy, and judging from the bright, unwearied faces at the close of the ball (nearly eleven o’clock) the object in view was happily attained. Amongst the girls in fairy costume were the Misses M. Knight, Amy Cossar, Winnie Leys, Florrie Court, Irene Hemus, May Scott, Kaynes, McDonald, Kent, C. Bush, and others. Miss A. Dennes was a Fairy Butterfly ; this costume was a work of art, every detail being perfectly carried out. Amongst the young ladies in evening dress I noticed Miss Emerson, Miss K. Wood, Miss Rita Hancock, Miss George, Miss Bradley, Miss Court, Miss Stella Alexander, Miss Langsford, Miss Hart, Miss Gaudin, and Miss M. Dickey. Miss Campbell wore a pretty Zouave costume ; Miss Dickey represented a French Maid ; Miss — Barry, Red Riding Hood ; Miss S. Dickey, Court costume ; Miss Annie Scott looked well as Hearts. Many others looked well both in plain and fancy dress whom I did not know. Miss Scott wore a handsome trained gown of pink cashmere. Miss Annie Scott played the music for the fairies’ dance very tastefully, and Adams’ band supplied excellent music for the other dances. Amongst the chaperones present were Mesdames Young, Johnstone, Leys, Alexander, Cousins, Kent, Edmiston, D. B. McDonald, Whitelaw, Raynes, Hemus, Judson, J. Court, Short, Cossar, and Miss Edger. Others looking on were Mesdames Macdonald, Butt, W. Sharland, Hart, Berry, Morrin, and the Misses Oxley, Johnstone, Devore, Masefield, A. Tye, Berry, Barry, Macdonald, Stevenson, White, < >wen, and others. Arrangements are being made to hold a rose, patches and powder ball early next month in the Choral Hall, the proceeds of which will be devoted to the Auckland Ladies Benevolent Society. The function will be under the patronage of His Worship the Mayor and a strong committee of ladies and gentlemen, so that success both financially and socially may be expected. Mrs G. \V. Binney’s residence, Upper Queen Street, was the scene of a large garden paity. The visitors were composed mainly of those who have been in the

habit of attending the weekly dancing classes held in the Victoria Hall, Mount Eden, during the late winter months. The object of the gathering was to present Mrs Hay and Miss Snell, who have acted throughout as the presiding geniuses of these entertainments, with a gold bracelet and brooch, respectively. Both the ladies were greatly impressed with such a mark of esteem from their charges, and expressed their thanks in appropriate language. Games, tea, and conversation occupied the time pleasantly until about 6 pin., when the company dispersed. The showery and disagreeable weather experienced upon the afternoon fixed for the formal opening for the season of the Parnell Lawn Tennis Club was most unfortunate, and the ‘ At Home,’ to which the members had invited a large number of friends, had in consequence to be put off. The private opening of the Club took place some weeks ago. The many Auckland friends of Miss Katie Danaher, daughter of Mr Danaher, formerly well known as a contractor in Auckland, but now residing in Sydney, will be interested to learn that she has just entered the holy bonds of matrimony, the bridegroom being Mr A. J. Macauley, of Sydney. The marriage was solemnized in St. Brigid’s Roman Catholic Church, Marrickville, in the presence of a large number of friends, amongst whom were many former Auckland residents. At the conclusion of the ceremony the bridal party were hospitably entertained by Mr and Mrs Danaher at their residence, Warren Road, Marrickville.

Hospital Sunday was inaugurated in Auckland by the members of the various Friendly Societies, who marched in procession from the Ponsonby reseivoir to the City Hall, where they were addressed by Sir George Grey, Mr Connolly (United States Consul), and others. The procession was accompanied by three bands, and as the weather was line the roads en route were crowded with well-dressed spectators. The gathering in the City Hall was, I understand, a very large and most successful one. The certificates won at the recent examination in music held in connection with the Auckland University College, were presented in the Choral Hall to the successful students by Dr. Giles, Resident Magistrate, who presided in the absence of Sir G. M. O’Rorke. The list of prize winners is as follows : —Senior Division A. : James Henry Philpott, Ist class ; Margaret H. Chapman, 2nd class ; Thomas McGinley, 2nd class ; Jessie May Adams, 3rd class. Senior Division B. : William F. Forbes, Ist class ; Alice E. Law, Ist class. Junior Division : Ist class certificates, Frederick A. Clarke, Winifred Buddle, Maud Harding, Francis E. M. Harper, Bessie Jones, William W. Kidd, Winifred Russell, Lucy Schnackenberg; 2nd class, Margaret Lanigan, Florence Lester, Clara P. Lorrigan, Julia Lucy Moran ; 3rd class, Agnes Beatrice Moran, Elizabeth Anderson. A large gathering of friends were present, and in addition to the addresses several selections of music, both vocal and instrumental were given by the successful students.

In the absence of other amusements there have been during the week quite a number of concerts of more or less importance. Amongst the best were the Auckland Orchestral Union’s concert in the Choral Hall, under the conductoiship of Mr G. A. Paque. Among the large audience I noticed Miss Wright, black cashmere ; Mrs A. B. Wright, black ; Mrs Edminston, black cashmere, charming blue bonnet; Mrs (Col.) Carre, navy dress, pretty brown bonnet with pink roses; Miss Lusk, black; Miss Larkins, brown plaid, black bonnet; Mrs Dawson, becoming pink delaine ; Mrs A. Clarke, handsome opera cloak ; Miss Stevenson, amber-coloured silk and handsome opera cloak ; Miss Chew, pale green ; her sister, grey; Misses Kensington, navy blue ; Miss E. Taylor, brown. There was a crowded audience at the Y.M.C.A. Rooms to hear Herr Schmitt’s concert. Perhaps music of a lighter character would have been better appreciated, though the opening item, a string quintette, comprising in its executants Herr Schmitt and Messrs Kent, Macfarlane, Beale, and Gribbin, was loudly applauded. The piece was called ‘ Overture de Concert,’ and was beautifully played, as were also the ‘ Scene de Ballet,’ and ‘ March Heavenward.’ Miss Garton, dressed in dainty cream silk, sang ‘The Beating of My Own Heart ’ so well, and so delightfully distinctly, that all our hearts beat responsive to the words and music. Mr F. Cor in ‘ The Better Land,’ and Mr J. McGregor, ‘Calvary,’ were worth listening to. Miss Lucy Harrison’s violin solo was beautifully played. Miss Ema Thomson, who made her debut in the ‘ Prima Donna,’ frocked in a lovely white silk, again reflected credit on the careful training she has received at the hands of Herr Schmitt. Her voice has wonderfully improved, and her clear articulation was a treat. Much as we liked the song, it was hardly, said the critics, suitable for the building. It was too high-class, and would have been more appreciated in the Choral Hall. Miss Zeenie Davis took the fancy of the audience in her piano solo, ‘ Spinnlied,’ and was enthusiastically recalled. ‘ The Love-Tide,’ sung by Miss Harper, was another item that elicited a deserved recall. Mr C. Hudson sang ‘ The Roll Call,’ and Mr J. Ferriday, ‘ Queen of the Earth ’ (encored). Various other vocal and instrumental selections followed. Miss Zeenie Davis, frocked in pale blue silk with a crimson opera cloak, assisted Miss Harding, whose black la< e and jet costume was much admired, with the accompaniments, in which generally unappreciated labour Miss Reeve also gave her help. Miss Harrison wore white cashmere. The other day I played eavesdropper at a rehearsal of Miss Harding's concert to come off on December 7th. There are about thirty-seven lady members and eight boys. Miss Harding conducts, and her little sister Maude, a wonderfully clever'musician, leads. Miss Edith plays the clarionet. I heard ‘The Daughter of the Regiment’ beautifully played, and various other pieces, which I also enjoyed". But perhaps, Bee, lam betraying too many secrets, so will tell no more.

Both days for the races were very unpleasant, being rather cold and showery, but the first, day the prettiest dresses were worn. Our president’s wife, Mrs L. D. Nathan, wore the first day a handsome black lace costume, black bonnet with red flowers; the second day she was frocked in a stylish white and green striped silk with black lace over it, white and green bonnet; Mrs Col. Dawson (vice president’s wife), grey satin covered with black spotted net, black lace bonnet ; Mis Thomas Morrin, plaid dress, toque with red flowers ; Mrs G. Lewis, black silk, handsome red shawl, black bonnet ; Miss Davis, black braided cashmere, white sailor hat trimmed with feathers and ribbons : Mrs Arthur Nathan, black satin, lace bonnet with golden butterflies; Mrs Goodhue, grey merino, black bonnet: Mrs Blomfield looked extremely well in grey cashmere braided with silver, pretty sailor hat trimmed with grey ostrich tips ; the Misses Kerr-Taylor, grey plaid dresses, hats cn suite ; Mrs Dargaville, white delaine, fur boa, black bonnet with yellow flowers; Mrs Ware, dark grey ami brown costume ; Mrs Ching, handsome black silk, grey toque with grey feathers ; Mrs H. I’. Norton, crushed strawberry-coloured skirt, navy blue jacket, black lace bonnet with yellow butterflies ; Mrs Jackson, stylish grey tweed trimmed with white, grey hat with feathers ; Miss Jackson, slate-coloured dress, gem hat; Miss Whitaker, pale green spotted delaine trimmed with white silk, white toque ; the second day she wore a dress of cornflower blue delaine, handsome grey jacket, grey toque, cornflower blue parasol ; Miss Devore, fawn dress, hat with brown feathers ; Miss Masefield, grey and brown cashmere, hat with feathers; Miss Lewis, a rose-coloured fawn cashmere, brown hat with pink roses ; Miss Dunnet, spotted sateen trimmed with green velvet, gem hat; Miss Buckland, grey cashmere, black hat trimmed with white ; Miss M. Buckland a bluey coloured grey, fawn hat ; Mrs W. I. Buckland, pinkey grey coloured gown, black lace hat with pink flowers; Miss Owen, navy trimmed with red ; Miss Churton, pale heliotrope bonnet with black ribbons ; Miss Lawford, grey and green frock; Miss Mobray, fawn, bonnet cn suite-. Mrs Walker, handsome prune-coloured cashmere trimmed with gold lace, bonnet en suite ; her daughter |was frocked in grey ; Miss Dickey, blue flowered delaine, black hat ; Miss Williamson, blue and white delaine, plain sailor hat ; Miss Horne, a handsome golden brown cashmere ; Miss Firth, black braided cashmere, sailor hat trimmed with red velvet; Miss M. Firth, grey cashmere, white vest, white gem hat ; Miss Kilgour, grey check, white vest, white toque with white feathers ; Mrs Bews, maroon dress trimmed with red velvet, black hat ; Mrs Duthie, dark green delaine trimmed with black lace, black bonnet ; Mrs Earle, fawn costume, black lace bonnet; Mrs Gould, terracotta cashmere, hat cn suite.

I will close this letter with a description of some tasteful walking costumes which I have noted recently. Miss Johnstone (Parnell) looked extremely well in a neat fawn costume piped and faced with brown, hat cn suite ; Miss Lawford, pretty cornflower blue flowered cambric gown, sailor hat; Miss Buddle (Remuera), dainty light biscuit-coloured gown piped with light brown, fawn hat relieved with cardinal ; Mrs Ching, stylish light grey costume, bonnet to correspond ; Miss Alice I 'pton looked well in a pretty cream gown, and large white hat ; Miss Clara Billington, dainty white flowered muslin dress, white hat; Miss Hill, stylish navy blue gown covered with laige spots, sailor hat banded with navy ribbons ; Miss Blandford, stylish dark fawn plaid costume, small black hat composed of feathers ; Miss Davis, light grey silk gown trimmed with black velvet, sailor hat; Mrs Churton, fawn delaine figured in brown, black lace bonnet with white flowers; Miss Churton, lilac and pink striped frock, black lace hat with white roses ; Mrs Pollen, stylish black braided costume.

Muriel.