Topics of the Week.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume IX, Issue 46, 12 November 1892, Page 1112

Topics of the Week.

SOCIETY’S SAYINGS AND DOINGS.

HIS EXCELLENCY THE GOVERNOR and the Countess of Glasgow weie warmly but quietly welcomed on their arrival in Chiistchuich last Thursday. Either the bagpipes were played out, or there are no pipers in the city of the plains —at all events, the Vice-regal party had a rest from these somewhat monotonous strains. The idea of a welcome from the young New Zealanders, which originated in Auckland, commended itself to the Christchurch authorities, and the children sang the National Anthem for the benefit of Lord and Lady Glasgow, to whom the tune will doubtless soon become quite familiar. But it is exceedingly desirable that in a democratic colony such as this, the young people should be tanght to cultivate a feeling of loyalty and patriotism. And surely they can learn nothing so wholesomely patriotic as the famous lines, ‘ Confound their politics ; Erustrate their knavish tricks;’ as applied to their country’s enemies. It is so seldom good children are allowed to use the first word of those two lines —in any sense—and they, even the most pious little ones attach the strongest meaning to it, and sing it with real delight. But to return to their Excellencies, who, by this time, must have felt quite ready for the public luncheon provided for them at the City Council Chambers. The Mayor of Christchurch, assisted by the Hon. W. P. Reeves, made suitable speeches. There is little new to say on these occasions, but the speakers said it. The decorations, though not very elaborate, were fully sufficient for a ‘ homely welcome,’ as the Christchurch reception of the Governor is designated. The Auckland Yacht Club have invited His Excellency for a cruise on the twenty-third of this month, which is to be a field, or rather, a water day for the Club. Lord Glasgow has accepted the invitation, and will probably enjoy a taste of the briny. AN interesting discussion arose last week during the session of the Anglican Diocesan Synod in Auckland on the question of pew rents. Mr A. Brown proposed that all seats in the churches should be free. Very different were the opinions expressed, the Revs. Beatty, Lush, and Dr. Purchas being against the system of charging for seats in the house of God ; whilst Archdeacons Dudley and Lloyd, and the Rev. W. Calder considered that free seats should be mixed with the others. Several ladies wished that they might express their strong conviction that a few seats should certainly be kept until the bell ceased ringing for those willing to pay for them. The question whether ladies may take part in church meetings is one of those discussed at the present Synod. Two of Lord Glasgow's daughters are very musical, and are taking part in the rehearsals of the Young Ladies’ Orchestra. Lady Augusta Boyle plays the violin very well, and Lady Dorothy the ’cello. Aucklanders and Wellingtonians have no doubt pleasing recollections of the extremely astute but rather over-smart gentleman, Mr Montague MacCallum, agent of the Monta-gue-Turner Company, who sold them so admirably with season tickets for the somewhat inferior performances of the English Opera Company run on the cheap with little or no chorus. At Nelson and up the coast the brisk little man is still selling season tickets and—people. The Nelson folk were furious when they discovered that they had paid their money to hear only Miss Montague and Mr Turner—no orchestra and no chorus-and this was termed grand opera. Mr McCallum on his second tour will meet with the same sort of welcome as that accorded to Picturesque Atlas agents. It is imfamons that people should be induced to buy season tickets on representation, which we might call by a very hard name indeed. We advise all up the coast who are asked to patronise the concerts, to inquire very closely as to what they are to receive in return for their

money. If they find, as is most probable, that they are expected to pay opera prices to listen to Miss Montague, Mr Turner and one or two inferior principals, they can, of course, please themselves, but let them beware that they are not taken in by promises of full chorus and orchestra as Aucklanders were. The concerts given during the week by the Italian Opera Company in Dunedin received good patronage, and on Saturday night last a popular concert was advertised to take place in the Garrison Hall. Hundreds of people intent on a cheap treat for one shilling were, however, disappointed, everybody being turned away. The secret of this, it transpired, was that the management had agreed to pay the Company at noon each Saturday in cash, but no money being forthcoming, the foreigners struck and refused to sing. Cheques were offered the Company, but, it seems, refused, it being alleged that some previous experience in cheques, perhaps in their own country, made them careful. Labour Day in Dunedin was fine and warm, but windy and dusty, though it does not do to be fastidious in regard to the weather, at least in Dunedin. Everybody was early astir and seemed on pleasure bent and as they mostly returned home late, tired out, they apparently enjoyed themsieves after the fashion of Britishers and colonials, whose idea of bliss is to tire themselves with arduous pleasuring. The procession itself drew an immense crowd, although about five hundred less took part in it than upon last Labour Day. St. Clair, the Reservoir, the harbour, and the surrounding bays all had their patrons, to say nothing of the sports at the Caledonian Grounds. In the evening there were several concerts. The Italian Opera Company at the Theatre, Labour Day concert at the City Hall, and Salvini’s farewell concert at the Garrison Hall, a holiday audience assembling at all three, according to their tastes. An epidemic of bazaars and kindred affairs has been raging with extreme violence in Dunedin. The most important was a species of fete held, by the courtesy of the Hon. Mrs G. M’Lean, at her residence, Hazelwood. The motive was to raise enough money to pay off the remaining debt upon some pictures in the Art Gallery. The house and grounds were thrown open ; the dining-room being set apart as a music room, and the drawing-room made into an exhibition of curios. In another room were * Mrs Jarley’s Waxworks,’ and the study was given over to a fortune-teller. Mrs Davidson, the Hon. Mrs Oliver, and other ladies had interested themselves very earnestly in the matter, and a fine day permitted many to spend a most enjoyable afternoon. Miss Bella McLean, wearing a pretty gown of pink, kept guard at the fortune-teller’s door, admitting those curious about their future one by one. The curio room was worth an hour’s examination, some very handsome and unique articles having been lent by private ladies. Dresses of the last century were exhibited by Mrs Gibson Smith, and a lovely collection of Chinese teapots, sixty in number, belonging to Mrs Turton, and a number of lovely Japanese garments, some lovely lace, and an exquisitely worked camel’s cover by Mrs Oliver. Miss Buisk showed some quaintly-wrought Chinese strawberry spoons and a chic cream jug and basin, and Mrs McLean exhibited some costly lace. Among the said lace exhibits was, by the way, part of a ruff once belonging to Sir Sidney Smith. A hunting-horn, two hundred years old, and many other costly and curious articles were scattered about the room.

The greatest amusement was caused at the wax work exhibition, Miss Cargill acting as Mrs Jarley, disguised in a show-woman’s dress. The figures were so well got up that only those well acquainted with those representing the various characters could guess who they were. One lady, Mrs Shand, as an organ-grinder was altogether beyond recognition. Miss E. McLaren was a beautifully-attired Court Lady, and sat so still holding her dainty embroidery

in her fingers, that she might easily have been mistaken for a wax figure. Miss E. Rattray looked very nice as * Ta-ra ra-boom-de-ay ’; Miss M. Sale, ‘A Laughing Girl’; Miss Dolly Ireland, • Flower Girl and Miss E. Cargill and a little boy as the Pear’s soap picture of ‘ The Dirty Boy.’ The coach house was transformed into a tea room, over which Miss M’Lean presided. During the afternoon a very good musical programme was gone through. Mrs Rose sang ‘ Three Fishers ’ with much expression ; Mr Martin * Only Once More’ ; Mrs E. C. Reynolds, piano ; Miss R. Reynolds sang, so also did Mrs Mills ; Miss Maitland played a violin solo. Miss Lily Cameron, Mr Chinn and Mr F. L. Jones also rendered valuable assistance. So far as Auckland was concerned, Guy Fawke’s Day was a lamentable failure, the pelting rain effectually quenching all bonfires, and reducing the most fiery firework to an ineffectual fizzle. Guys were in the main conspicuous by their absence, though one of our representatives was bailed up by some urchins in Wakefield street with a

request for * something for the Guy.’ A more disreputable Fawkes than this could not have been imagined, but it was better than nothing. In one of the suburbs a good Guy was rigged up, of which a sketch is herewith given. He was, however, drowned, not burned, according to report. The members of St. George’s Bay Rowing Club must have felt considerably disgusted at the showery and unsatisfactory state of the weather on Saturday last. They had issued over three hundred invitations tor the festivities in connection with the opening of the boating season. Owing to the violence and pertinacity of the showers the afternoon tea was very wisely postponed. Auckland has been suffering from a reaction after the excitement of the Vice-regal visit and the gaieties which followed in its train, so the past week has been abnormally dull, even for the ‘ off’ season, when the weather is too uncertain to start garden parties, and when dances —excepting they be of surpassing excellence are apt to clog. Very little of an interesting description has taken place at all ; society taking its dissipation mildly in the shape of aftermon teas, of which there have been several. These functions are not, however, of enthralling interest to read about, though distinctly pleasurable to those who attend them, affording pleasant and informal opportunities for the formation of friendships, and as they say in the classic ditty • Ta-ra-ra boom-de-aye,’ you know. The dulness aforesaid had, however, nothing to do with the fact that the dance given by Mrs Bull, of Mount Eden, shone with quite exceptional lustre in the firmament of society—destitute of other stars—and that the inevitable verdict of quite one of the pleasantest dances of the season was given with exceeding unanimity. Dancing was, it is almost unnecessary to relate, in the new ball-room which was opened in the beginning of the season. Though fully fifty couples must have been on the floor there was never the slightest crush. Supper was served in the drawingroom, and it goes without saying was of the most rtcherche description. The minuet was gracefully danced by four couples during the evening, the less accomplished guests forming a highly interested and perhaps slightly envious

audience. The dining room and verandahs formed pleasant sitting-out places, the latter being protected fiom the vagaries of th 6 weather and comfortably provided with lounges and chairs.

If the traveller on his way to the Nihotapu Falls were to take the unmetalled road that branches oft' from the main one at the foot of the Long Hill and follow it for halfarnile, he would light upon as snug a little hamlet as one could wistrto see. Between two lofty mountain spurs the half-dozen white-painted houses look from a distance like so many sheep grazing on the hill side. The country is difficult of approach, being rugged and broken, full of creeks and abutting cliffs. The locality possesses at the present moment a melancholy interest, as it was in one of these quiet abodes that Mr Thompson met his mysterious death. A Graphic artist visited the spot on the day succeeding the inquest, and was most fortunate in getting the really capital sketches given on another page. That of the deceased’s house forms naturally a pretty picture with the range at the back, half-clad with virgin bush. The house is reached from the road by a broad drive, on both sides of which grow shrubs of various hues. The grounds are planted out with some hundreds of fruit trees, the blossoms of which weight with mingled sweetness the breezes that sighs up the gully.

It was a lovely morning when our artist visited the place, and as he looked about him as he walked, he half forgot the gruesome errand on which he was bent. When, however, he reached the house, he was painfully reminded of the object of his visit. Death is always impressive, but in a lone country district it is more than ever so. Desolation seemed in the air. The house was locked up and deserted. Whiningly the house-dog came up to our representative, looking wistfully into his eyes. The poor brute was hungry and eat heartily the little given him. The horse in the adjoining paddock looked conscious that something was wrong. Mr Wilson’s house, also given in the sketch, is about a couple of hundred yards from Thompson’s, and is guarded by tall blue-gum trees that stand sentinel-like on either side. It was here that Mr Scott, who is charged with the murder of his friend, lived. We have no intention of entering into the story of the mystery. Sufficient, and more than sufficient thereof, may be found in the morning and evening papers of the colony. Our picture of Mr Thompson, who met his death in so untimely a fashion, is taken from a photograph of that gentleman when at Oxford University.

The opening of the Nelson Rowing Club season, which had been postponed for a fortnight, took place last Saturday. It was a beautiful day although a stiff breeze was blowing, making the water rather rough. The port presented a most lively appearance, bunting being hung across the street and flags flying from every available point of vantage. The beauty of the scene was enhanced by the little skiffs which were sailing about the harbour. One 'of the small steamers was crowded with passengers, evidently all enjoying their afternoon on the water. The boat shed was crowded with a fashionable assemblage of people, who enjoyed the kind attention of their hostesses, Mesdames Richmond, Sclanders, and Cock, who provided a most sumptuous afternoon tea. The Club can count several new members this year, so evidently a successful season may be looked forward to.

An excellent band contest took place in the New Plymouth Recreation Grounds last week, and proved a great success. The night was perfect, clear bright moonlight, attracting a great many people. The band gave remarkably pretty music, and everyone enjoyed it.

The Nelson Tennis Courts this season are looking in splendid condition, so green and smooth, and are the favourite resort of people in the afternoons. Miss Levien's familiar face is much missed this year, and apparently Miss Pitt will have the laurels in her own hands. Already tournaments are spoken of, and the members mean to keep up the interests of the Club.

The Club for ladies in Napier is by no means a settled thing as yet. Another meeting is to be held shortly, when ways and means will be again discussed. There is some talk of having a large room at an hotel. The idea seems to be approved of by many people, and most likely would not cost nearly so much as the original plan.

The Musical Society intend giving the • Messiah ’ in New Plymouth at Christmas, under the conductorship of Mr

Ezra Brook. The practices are well attended, and the Society is getting into working order. Mr Brook is a splendid conductor. Mrs Alan Douglas acts as pianist.

A concert and entertainment was got up at the Hutt a few evenings ago, and proved very enjoyable. The performers were Mrs Arthur Pearce, Miss Barnett, Mr and Miss Parker, Mr Barclay Hector, etc., and afterwards an amusing little act was performed by Miss Wilford, Miss Kate Wilford, Mr Tom Wilford, and Dr. PurJy. A good many visitors went out from Wellington on purpose to see it, and from all accounts it was well worth the journey.

The result of the Trinity College Musical Examination has been very creditable to the Napier candidates, who obtained the following marks Senior Pass : Herbert Spackman, 76. Intermediate Pass : Mary Macfarlane, 88 ; Ella Rymer, 69; Amy Spackman, 65; Samuel Mayson, 62. Junior Honours : Agnes Isabella Guy, 91 ; Elizabeth Guy, 88 ; Frank Thompson, 82; Harry D. Bamford, 64 ; Annie Cornford, 89 ; Ida M. White, 87 ; Mary Craig, 84 ; Amelia Lee, 84 ; Helena St. Clair, 74 ; Aurelia Jensen, 74 ; Agnes Macfarlane, 71 ; Ethel Wynn Williams, 65, Ethel Davies, 6Q. The maximum number of marks was 100.

The New Plymouth Lawn Tennis Club was opened with considerable eclat. A large crowd of fashionables was present, and a number of pretty frocks brightened the lawn. There are three good grass courts and a cinder court; a successful season is therefore anticipated. Afternoon tea was provided by the ladies’ committee. The lady champion last year was Miss Emily Hannerton, Mr Lightfoot being the gentleman champion.

On Tuesday Mrs Haslam gave a charming musicale at her residence, Riccarton. Special coaches conveyed the guests, numbering between forty and fifty, and in spite of the dusty condition of the road the drive out was very enjoyable. The performers included some of the best amateurs in Christchurch. Afternoon tea was served, and in meeting many friends a delightful time was spent. Those who contributed in a musical way to the success of the afternoon were Miss Rich, who played beautifully on her violin ; Mrs Leonard Harper, Mrs Haslam, Mrs Burns, Mrs Westland, Mrs Wilding, and Mrs Bevan Brown.

To our horror and consternation we (says a Samoan paper) were very delicately informed by two ladies on Thursday last, that the Spinsters* Ball, which was held on the Bth of last month, had only been reported in a

single par. Until inspecting our tile we were sceptical on the point, but are now compelled to otter our most sincere apologies to the young ladies of Apia for such a frightful omission. On enquiry we have discovered some little palliation of our crime, which we venture, with all diffidence, to bring forward, in the hope that those whom v e have grievously offended will, out of the goodness of their hearts consider it the ghost of a shadow of an excuse for our unintentional slight. On the night of the dance referred to we, being unable to attend, had sent a reporter in the person of Mr Macfarlane, and, knowing his abilities in that particular department, had considered our duty well and gracefully done. Mr Macfarlane left our employ during the week that the giltedged report should have been published, and being considerably inconvenienced and worried, we entirely forgot our obligation in respect to the ball. This was unfortunate, but we trust that our young friends will forgive us this time, as we promise never to offend again. Onr regard for the ladies admits of no dispute.

The highwayman of New Plymouth has achieved what he doubtless wanted, a cheap notoriety. He has also gained what rumour avers he stood much in need of, a little hard cash. For his identity is somewhat of an open secret, and, had it not been for his connections, it is more than probable that he would ere this have paid the penalty of his crimes. Highway robbery is not an offence that should be treated lightly. It is imperative that our citizens should be able to take their walks abroad in safety ; and this thief, be he who he may, should no longer be tolerated in a civilised community. The police and public are expected to do their duty in handing hi.-n over to justice. If they fail, frr fear or favour, then the matter must be placed in the hands of higher and more competent authority. For the benefit of the curious in such matters, this impudent robber’s drees may be briefly described, the account being given by one of the ‘ stuck up ’ New Plymouthitee. The coat is red, of the bright shade patronised some time ago by the Volunteers (perhaps a clue is here afforded). His trousers are dark, enlivened by a white stripe down the side. His face is hidden under a mask and a long grey beard. He is said to carry revolvers, and to be further armed with a suspiciously bright sword. He is gallant towards the fair sex, who are, nevertheless, somewhat anxious and uneasy ; especially as he is thought by some to be a madman. The concert in aid of the Collegiate School attracted a large audience at the Theatie Royal, Wellington. There were some good items by the Misses Parsons, Mrs Parsons, Mr R. B. Williams (who has a sweet tenor voice), Mrs P. P. Webb, and Mies Newton. Mr McDuff-Boyd contributed a violin solo, and a comic song by Mr W. D. Lyon proved irresistibly funny. A recitation was given by Master Morshead, and some physical drill by the pupils attending the school finished the first part of the programme. The second part proved very entertaining. It was a parliamentary debate on * The Protection of the Genus Small-boy in New Zealand,’ and was given by thirty pupils in a very amusing way.

Lord and Lady Glasgow and party arrived yesterday (writes our Christchurch correspondent), and were met in Lyttelton by the Mayor and councillors, who were introduced to His Excellency by the Hon. W. I’. Reeves, who accompanied the Vice regal party to Lyttelton. There was a great display of bunting from the shipping, the s.s. lonic making a very fine appearance. The usual addresses of welcome were presented, and briefly replied to by the Governor, who then with Lady Glasgow and suite left for Christchurch. Owing to the great uncertainty of the time of arrival there were very few people at the railway station. His Worshipthe Mayor was there and Mr A. Boyle, who was waiting for His Excellency. As Lord and Lady Glasgow drove away three hearty cheers were given for each, and they proceeded to Riccarton to the residence of Mr Hoyle, whose guests they will be during their stay in Christchurch.

Mrs Fenwick (Christchurch) gave a small luncheon party last week to a few of her lady friends, including Mrs Wilding, Mrs Pitman, Mrs Otterson, Mr Denniston, and Mrs Westland.