TOPICS OF THE WEEK

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XI, Issue 42, 21 October 1893, Page 314

TOPICS OF THE WEEK

SOCIETY’S SAYINGS AND DOINGS.

Lord and lady Glasgow, Captain Clayton, and the Hon. John Boyle paid a visit to the Gulcher Electric Lighting Works, and were much pleased with all they saw. They were met by Mr AucklingBaron, the manager, and the Hon. _■ C. J. Johnston, and Mr George Beetham, who escorted them and showed them everything of interest in both the Company’s buildings.

‘There was a sound of revelry by night’ when the nierrie maidens of Picton received their friends on the floor of the Public Hall. They were standing in two rows adown the length of the room, clad in frocks of various hues and shades, with powdered hair, rouge, and patches, carrying bouquets and fans, smiling and bowing as their visitors, singly, or by twos and threes, walked between the ranks to the further end of the hall. The Picton girls were the cynosure of all eyes, and the pride and delight of all the maternal and paternal and fraternal relations in the room.

The hall was a scene of resplendent glory in the way of decoration, with gigi and fern trees, lycopodium, arum lilies, flags, art muslin and furniture. At the lower end a terrace of moss, with arums apparently growing above it ; above that again a mirror, which reflected everything in the hall. Above the centre lamp was suspended a huge centrepiece of arums, from whence wreaths of lycopodium radiated to each corner of the room. Tall fern trees stood on the stage, covered with rata and other creepers. As for the stage it was a perfect fairy bower, with drapery and flowers, and the folding doors opening at the back revealed a perfect sylvan scene, with ferns and moss, and fairy lamps to represent glow-worms.

The supper-table was a veritable ‘feast of nectared sweets,’ and pleasant to the eye withal, lit up with many candles in silver and quaint bronze candelabra. Two huge bowls of purple and white iris stood on the large table. Smaller tables scattered about held dainty knick-knacks and foreign sweets, creams, jellies, trifles, tipsy cakes, oyster patties, cheese-cakes, meringues, and cakes of all sorts, fruit, and Turkish delight— tout ensemble only to be compared to the display in a nobleman’s house, so at least remarked a lady visitor, who has travelled muchly, and ought to know.

The minuet was danced twice by twelve young ladies, all of whom were perfect in their parts, and delighted their visitors exceedingly by their graceful dancing, whilst their quaint Empire frocks and old-time style added to the interest and beauty of the scene. The ladies who danced were the Misses M. Speed. Mellish, Nora Allen, Mclntyre, Greensill, Sybil Greensill, Hassal, Muriel Linton, S. Phillpotts, Western, Laura Beauchamp, and F. Western.

Dunedin has been anything but gay for some weeks past. Occasionally a pleasant evening enlivens the dulness, and one of these was at Bishopscourt, when Mrs Wright welcomed home the recently-married pair, Mr and Mrs Jack Wright. Nearly two hundred guests were present, but the many spacious rooms at Bishopscourt proved equal to the occasion. The large dining and drawing-rooms were both utilised for dancing, the music being in the hall between. Several other rooms were used in various ways by those who did not care for dancing. Each room was decorated with choice flowers, and the lamps were shaded artistically with pale pink and yellow. An elegant supper was served in a long room, with seats for fifty or sixty guests. The host and hostess, with Miss Wright, received their guests in the spacious hall, whence they passed into the ball rooms.

The arrival of two sons from their Waikato homestead afforded an excellent opportunity to Capt. and Mrs Worsp, of Auckland, to give a charming impromptu dance. ‘ Burrwood ' is lovely on a warm evening such as the night of the ball, and its varied gravelled paths afforded attractive and damp free promenades between the dances. The Misses Ida and Hilda Worsp ably seconded the efforts of their parents for the enjoyment of their numerous guests, and they were exceedingly successful. The supper decorations were composed of white Howers and greenery, amongst

which were placed the usual dishes suitable to the occasion. The iced claret-cup was a great boon, the early summer heat being very trying. The staircase and landing were prettily decorated with cabbage trees, ferns, etc.

The Hastings Show was a most successful event. The day was gloriously fine—indeed, if anything, a trifle too warm. But it enabled the ladies to appear in their bright new gowns, and what a pleasure that was to them and to their admirers ! Everyone was extremly pleased that little Miss Madge Rhodes carried off the leaping prize. Mrs Ernest Tanner took the second prize this year. There was a perfect Babel of acclamation when Miss Madge and her pony trotted past the Stand, after negotiating the jumps so perfectly. She and her steed were a very pretty sight. Mrs Rhodes’ horse slipped, and she came off, but very neatly. Most fortunately she was not at all hurt. A full description of the gowns will appear next week.

Another progressive euchre party, this time at the Boys’ College, Nelson, given by Miss Bell and Mr Joynt as a farewell to Mr and Mrs Jim Wood, who are shortly to leave Nelson. There were seven tables, and the first prizes were won by Mrs R. Kingdon and Mr C. H. Broad, the booby falling to Miss Pitt and Mr A. Glasgow. After supper Mr Joynt, in a few words, said how much Mr and Mrs Wood would be missed in Nelson, and wished them good luck in their future home. Mr Wood replied in a feeling little speech, and was heartily applauded.

We are requested by Mrs Lonsdale Pritt to state that she has paid in the sum of £l5 12s to Mr C. C. McMillan, Hon. Treasurer to the Auckland Ladies’ Benevolent Society, that being the sum realised by the fancy dress ball at Remuera, after paying all expenses.

Mr Percival, artist, has this week been showing a collection of pictures of New Zealand scenery in Messrs Baker Brothers’ Hall, Wellington, and the exhibition has attracted a large number of visitors. There are about half-a-dozen oil paintings, the largest of these being of Lake Wanaka, and over twenty water colours. The exhibition is a very interesting one, and well worthy a visit. Among the water colours are several of the Waikato River, one with an evening glow upon it being very delicate and pretty. Another from Manukau attracted attention, and also a view of Mitre Peak, and another near Mercer.

The annual social of the post and telegraph officers at the Cafe, Napier, proved a most enjoyable gathering. The chair was taken by Mr Wyatt, and Mr Norris occupied the vice-chair. There was a large attendance, including the heads of the departments. During the evening an excellent programme was gone through, with plantation songs, orchestral pieces, and other vocal items. The orchestral pieces were under the leadership of Mr Hotop. Among the toasts duly honoured were ‘ the Department,’ ‘ Post and Telegraph Officers’ Society,’ ‘ House of Representatives,’ etc. Other toasts were ‘our visitors,’ ‘the band,’ ‘the ladies,’‘ the Press,’ and ‘host and hostess.’ Songs were sung by Messrs Cameron, Norris, O'Conner, Pirani, Jago, and Lindsay. Mr Collins took the solo part of the concluding plantation song ‘ Good-night,’ an exceedingly pretty' thing. Shortly before midnight ‘Auld Lang Syne’ was sung, which brought a most enjoyable evening to a close. Mr Glassford provided supper, which was all that could be desired.

Miss Myra Kemble was accorded a very hearty reception in Dunedin, pleasant recollections being entertained of that lady’s previous visit of a year ago. ‘ The Profligate was the opening piece. 11 is a powerful play, and exceedingly touching—the study of a man reclaimed by a good woman. Miss Kemble gave an artistic impersonation of the child wife, Leslie Brudenell. Mr Sass, a stranger to New Zealand, played the part of the hero, and is undeniably an excellent actor. Mr George Leitch will appear in tbe comedy, • Our Flat,’ which was described in the London Standard as ‘ two screams and a yell.’

Dancing is holding its own in Auckland, despite the numerous out door attractions, which do not, however, seem to tire Society people for evening amusements. Last Wednesday there were no less than three smart private dances, and how to combine them was a puzzle to the dance-

loving individual. At ‘ Glenholm,’ Remuera, Mrs Stevenson was very successful in her evening, everything passing off well and pleasantly. The house is a popular one, and the guests always enjoy themselves.

The bazaar in aid of St. John’s Church is now being held in Thomas’ Hall, Wellington, and is doing very well, the usual side shows, etc., being well patronised.

The Roslyn (Dunedin) Bowling Club’s season was formally opened by the President (Mr W. C. Allnutt). The green looked beautiful. During the afternoon a large number of ladies attended. The same afternoon the Kaituna Bowling and Lawn Tennis Club also formally opened. The green banks were prettily decorated with flags, and an animated scene was presented, the dresses being light. There was a numerous attendance of members and their friends, and both bowling and tennis clubs were well represented, and the players showed great enthusiasm. It was a lovely warm day, and the tea that was provided during the afternoon by Mrs Maris Clark was very greatly enjoyed.

Chinese lanterns showed up the pretty garden at ‘ Fern .■*- Nook,’ Park Road, Auckland, when Mrs Ralph Keesing gave a large dance last week. Inside the decorations were effective and artistic, red poppies dominating the suppertable, which, by-the-bye, was quite a work of art, every cake on the table being sugared, and bearing the name of the house. The floor for dancing was perfect, flags were hung in every available corner, in and out the ball room, and seats and nooks were cosily arianged under the ferntrees, which give their name to the residence. From a girl’s point of view the dance was perfect, because the men were in the majority. The latter also rejoiced for the same reason, as it was really too hot to dance each item on the programme, and there were enough men to give each other a rest now and again.

The popular game of polo has at length been started in Hastings. It seems strange no club has previously been formed, as several of the residents play the game well. The first polo match came off in one of Captain Russell’s paddocks quite near Flaxmere. The match was Hawke’s Bay v. Gisborne. The Hawke’s Bay players were Messrs Ernest Tanner (who played remarkably well), Barker, Harold Russell, and another. The Gisborne men were victorious, rather to the disgust of the fair Hastings spectators, who, however, consoled themselves with the reflection that the Gisborne team had enjoyed much more practice than their men. The former looked very well in smart heliotrope silk caps and sashes. Possibly, when the club is formed, the Hawke’s Bay team will adopt special colours. On this occasion two wore pale blue and two white caps. A great number of people witnessed the match, and by the kind invitation of Captain and Mrs Russell partook of tea and delicious cakes, scones, etc. Many country people were present, and a good sprinkling of townsfolk. A few amongst the many were Rev. J. Hobbs, Mr and Mrs Fitzroy, Mr and Mrs Loughnan, Mr de Pelichet, Mrs J. Rhodes, the Misses Russell, Sydney Johnston, Ormond, etc., etc , who all seemed to enjoy the fun immensely. At the conclusion of the game cheers were given for Captain and Mrs Russell, the visitors, the ladies, etc.

Unfortunately, the delightful ball given by Mrs Ernest Tanner atßiverslea clashed somewhat with one held in Napier the same evening. However, Mrs Tanner secured a large number of guests, and with her husband succeeded in enabling them to have a charming dance. There were many from town and country who praised the decorations, appreciated the floor, and enjoyed the snpper.

The West End Social Union held its wind up dance in the Oddfellows’ Hall on Friday night last. These dances have taken place fortnightly throughout the season, and form one of the pleasantest social functions of Ponsonby. A large number of people assembled to celebrate the final gathering. The music and floor were excellent, while the pretty arrangement of the supper table and bright dresses of the ladies made a picture that will dwell in the minds of ballroom lovers until winter and dancing-days come round again.

The athletic season in Otago was opened on Saturday afternoon with the annual cross country run. It is an annual puzzle to me (says my correspondent) wherein the pleasure lies. The day was fine, and a number of people assembled at Tahuna Park, in which reserve was the starting and finishing point. The Dunedin Amateur Athletic Club are to be congratulated upon the fact that there were twenty two competitors. Mr W. J. Burk was starter, and a good run was enjoyed (?).

The season of the Nelson Bowling Club opened on Saturday, and numbers of people went in and out during the afternoon. The ground, as usual, was looking lovely, the bright green of the lawn being a refreshing sight after the dusty roads. The scene as the ground was entered was certainly a brilliant one. In the centre all the bowlers, in-

tent on their game, anti all round the pretty grounds gaily attired ladies, their costumes adding not a little to the beauty of the picture. The first things to see after admiring the law'n, etc., were the handsome trophies presented by the wives of the members of the Club for competition during the coming season. They are well worth winning, being a sweet little Queen Anne cream jug and sugar basin, four salt cellars, two fish knives and forks, half-a dozen afternoon teaspoons, all of them being most elegant, and showing taste on the part of the purchasers. Delicious afternoon tea and little cakes of all sorts were kindly dispensed by Mrs Henry Edwards, assisted by her daughters and other ladies, and proved most acceptable.

The popular concerts given by Mr John Fuller in Onehunga have been a great success, the last one on Friday, being well attended. The following evening a delightful juvenile social was held in the 1.0 G.T. Hall in connection with Mrs Gibbons’ dancing class. Fancy dress was optional, bnt was most generally worn. The walls were tastefully decorated with tree ferns, which formed a pretty background to the gay dresses of the children. During the evening a waltz minuet was very charmingly performed by a number of the pupils. As to the dresses worn by the dancers they were so numerous that it is not easy to remember them all, but as many as possible appear in the letter.

‘ All’s well that ends well.’ The Ponsonby *At Homes ’ have now come to an end, and although from the beginning there has been no doubt in the minds of the Committee but the strongest anticipations of a successful season—anticipations more than realised—the crowning feature of the season was not until last Friday night, when a plain and fancy dress ball concluded festivities for 1893. Everyone appeared animated with the desire to make the most of the last evening. All the final dances received vociferous encores, and six or seven extras, exclusive of • extra extras,’ were given by the musicians, under the talented leadership of Mr S. Adams. The floor was in excellent condition, and responded merrily to the feet of the dancers, although

on account doubtless of the warm evening, many preferred the gallery and supper-room corners to the delight even of a dreamy waltz. Flags and bunting adorned the walls of the hall. The supper table was a dream of dainties, trifles, jellies, lemonade, etc. Our final account of this successful season would be incomplete without a word of praise to the Committee who have worked hard to make it so, to Mr Macindoe, who, as M. C. on no occasion allowed the enjoyment of the dances to fail through lack of introductions, or the fun to flag when his genial good spirits could keep people up to the mark, and lastly, but not least, to the hon. secretary and treasurer, Mr F. A. Clark, whose exertions have been the means ot bringing about as satisfactory a financial as a social success of the ‘At Homes.’ The arrangements for a juvenile dance are to be begun at an early date.

There is probably no word in the English language that conveys more to the feminine mind than the name of ‘Worth.’ Visions of dresses and dinner gowns which are misdescribed by any other word than • creations ’ are conjured up. To be dressed by ‘ Worth ’ is perhaps the highest ambition of the woman who loves dress —and what woman does not but it has hitherto been almost an impossibility even for those who could afford the money. Things are advancing, however, and if our womenkind cannot see the immortal Worth himself, they can at least consult one of his chief assistants. Madame De Verney, the fashionable modiste, who has lately opened in Wellington, is from Worth’s, Paris, and Miss Matilde’s, London, where she had the honour of making

dresses for H.K.H. the Princess of Wales and many of the nobility. Her rooms in Wellington are beautifully fitted up fortheconvenience of ladies visiting herestablishment. Since commencing business in Wellington Madame has made several dresses for Lady Glasgow ana Lady Augusta Boyle. Lady Glasgow wore a dress made by her at Captain HunterBlair’s wedding on the 17th inst., which was greatly admired. She has, indeed, given much satisfaction generally to the ladies for whom she has made dresses since her arrival in this colony, and already established a really firstclass business.

We give a picture of the yacht Vigilant which, against our hopes, has succeeded in defending the American cup against the English yacht Valkyrie. It is, of course, known that the Vigilant was one of the four—the Colonia, Jubilee, and Pilgrim, being the others — and was chosen after a series of exciting test races. Our sketches are, of course, merely in outline, designed alone to give some idea of peculiarities of build and rig. This boat was ordered from the Herreshofls by the MorganIselin syndicate, in order that the defence of the Cup should not depend solely on one boat. This boat from the beginning has been in the hands of Mr Oliver Iselin. Whether Mr Iselin had anything to do with the design or not it is impossible to say, but many of the features and characteristics of the boat resemble very closely the Titania, with which Mr Iselin was so very successful some years ago.

The Vigilant’s length over all is 124 feet, water line 86 feet 3 inches, beam 26 feet, draught 14 feet, displacement about 140 tons. In the sheer outline she resembles the Colonia, her bow, water line, etc., being similar. Her midship section resembles very closely the Titania. The boat is widest at the deck, from where it sweeps down easily about a foot above the water line, where it turns more quickly, showing a very faint bilge. It runs almost in a straight line for some distance, then curves gently into the garboards ; from here down it drops in a straight line

to the keel. The boat on the ways gives the impression of a craft with an easy bilge, shoal body, small displacement for dimensions, and a great depth of keel appearing below the hull. Like the Colonia, she has her lead bolted on the outside in bulb form. Through this keel the metal centreboard is dropped. The most remarkable feature of the boat is the material of which she is built. The frames are steel, but the plating from the sheer strake down is of Tobin bronze. The rivets are of bronze. The bottom is very smooth, and, of course, is free from corrosion. There is a constant exfoliation going on which keeps the surface free from weeds and barnacles. It is also capable of a very high polish. When the boat is hauled out the surface is burnished. The fore body of the boat shows the same fulness below water near the stem as the Colonia. The run aft is very fine under water, but very full on the quarters. The overhang at the end is circular, the buttock lines are all convex, and rise with an easy sweep to the end of the counter. Above water there is the same high side as in the Colonia. The rig is very handsome. The spars appear about perfect. Her sails are far and away the best of the four boats. As these were the only ones made in New York Americans may be justly proud of them. This boat has been built, one might say, regardless of consequences. How long she will last is a question of time to decide. There have been reports that a decided corrosion of the steel frames has taken place already. As this is only a rumour no dependence is to be placed upon it.

The manifest purpose in the design of the Vigilant was

to have something different from the Colonia, and at the same time to have in the field a boat of the deep centreboard type, which have been so very successful. The selection of such extreme dimensions, even in a centreboard boat, was not an experiment, for the reason that an enlarged Titania would come out about the same with the exception of the draught, the Vigilant being deeper in proper.ion.