THE PREMIER’S BIRTHDAY.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XVII, Issue I, 4 July 1896, Page 21

THE PREMIER’S BIRTHDAY.

PRESENTATION TO MX AND MRS SEDDON. A LARGE crowd assembled in the Wellington Skating Rink to wish the Premier of New Zealand —Hon. R. J. Seddon —many happy returns of his birthday, and to present him with an album of signatures and an address, both arranged in New Zealand woods. Very complimentary speeches were made, and then Mrs T. K. Macdonald, on behalf of the women of the New Zealand Liberal party, presented Mrs Seddon with the following articles of jewellery and an address: — A handsome diamond and pearl necklet, with a diamond and pearl pendant. The pendant consists of a beautiful six-pointed star set with brilliants and scrolls set with pearls between each point. This lovely jewel can be worn as a pendant brooch or hair ornament, and was manufactured by Mr Frank Grady, of Wellington, and certainly reflects great credit on his establishment. A beautiful bangle with fine opal set round with diamonds was also presented to Mrs Seddon. On the case containing the necklet, etc., was a silver plate bearing the following inscription : * From the Women of New Zealand of the Liberal Party to Mrs R. J. Seddon, the true helpmate of her distinguished husband in all his great public work. June 22nd, 1896.’ This was Mrs Macdonald’s speech :—‘ Mr Chairman, Ladies and Gentlemen, —It has been felt by a large number of women belonging to the Liberal party that this would be a fitting opportunity to show their esteem for Mrs Seddon. On the West Coast of the South Island Mrs Seddon’s name is a household word for all that is kind and helpful. We in Wellington have not had the same long experience of her. Since she has come amongst us we, however, have learned to love and esteem her, and I know she has many warm and true friends, not only here in Wellington, but all over New Zealand, as the resolutions passed by the various associations show. As a slight recognition of her own labours in the Liberal cause, I have been requested to ask her acceptance of a diamond and pearl necklace, and also a diamond and opal bracelet. These will be souvenirs of this great gathering, and I am sure that you will join with me in the hope that she will long live to wear them on many anniversaries of Mr Seddon’s birthday.’ Mrs Macdonald clasped the necklet and bangle on Mrs Seddon, who wore them the rest of the evening. The jewellery was much admired by the ladies present, proving a source of great interest to them.