AUCKLAND.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXI, Issue XXIV, 10 December 1898, Page 760

AUCKLAND.

Dear Bee, December 5. There was a very large attendance on Tuesday evening in St. Benedict’s Hall, to witness the presentation of certificates and medallions obtained by the Auckland Centre pupils of the

S. JOHN AMBULANCE ASSOCIATION.

His Excellency the Governor arrived punctually at eight o'clock, accompanied by the Countess of Ranfurly, Lady Constance Knox, and Lord Northland, and attended by Captain Dudley Alexander and Mr Garland. Twenty-five members of the Medical Staff Corps made quite an imposing guard of honour outside the building. At the door the distinguished visitors were received by His Worship the Mayor, Mr I*. Dignan, who is also president of the Auckland Centre, and several of the Executive Committee. The platform was prettily decorated, the tiowers and lanterns being' left from the previous evening, and various flag's being added. Lady Ranfurly was presented with a bouquet arranged in the form of a cross, of scarlet double geraniums on a ground of white roses, by the wife of the secretary, whilst the daughter of the Lieut.-Col. Surgeon, Miss Ethel Dawson, presented Lady Constance Knox with a dainty little bouquet. The whole affair was very well managed. and the evening’s work was attractive. The secretary, Mr W. Rattray, read a satisfactory report, and Lord Ranfurly gave a very interesting tiecount of the origin of the S. John Ambulance Association and its history. His Excellency was frequently applauded. The Countess of Ranfurly gracefully handed the certificates and medallions to their various recipients, and evidently took a real interest in the several specimens .of ambulance work given by members of the Association and pupils. The three (apparently) drowned men who were resuscitated by three different methods evoked some amusement, but the (apparently) wounded on the field of battle, bandaged and borne away on stretchers by the Ambulance Corps painfully recalled the sad side of war. The wonderful perfection attained in moving the sick and wounded was demonstrated to everyone’s entire satisfaction. Miss Searle and Miss Spargo illustrated practically the style of neat bandaging learnt in the nursing class. As Lady Ranfurly left the platform, she said courteously to the secretary: ’lt has been a very pleasant evening'. The National Anthem was played by Miss Essie Holland. daughter of Air J. J. Holland, M.H.R., and one of the committee and this young lady also accompanied Miss Crowther, Mr Kissling, and Mr Gooch in their songs. Mr Boak gave a recitation. The Countess of Ranfurly looked very pretty in a black silk skirt, and loose bodice of accord-eon-pleated emerald-green silk, finished with lovely lace, and roses in the corsage, diamond ornaments; Lady Constance Knox looked very sweet in soft white muslin over pale pink silk, the muslin being arranged pinafore style. Others present were—Dr. and Mrs Dawson, the former in his uniform, the latter in black silk; Miss Ethel Dawson, white muslin, with green silk sash and yoke; Mrs Cowie, dark costume; with her were the two Misses Willis; Dr. and Mrs King, the latter in black, brocaded with red and grey, black bonnet, with coloured ribbon and ornaments; Dr. and Mrs Scott, the latter in fawn, striped with paler and darker shades, trimmed with brown guipure, vest and neck band of pink rucked chiffon, toque of brown and pink, etc.; Dr. and Miss Girdler, the latter in Moineau coat and skirt, white hat. with black band; Mr and Mrs Holland, the latter wore black silk; Rev. H. R. Dewsbury, Mrs Dewsbury, in blnck silk, black hat, with sunset-shaded roses under black

net and black feather; the Rev. Scott West, Mrs West, wore black silk, black and white bonnet; Mrs Rice, black silk; Canon and Mrs Nelson, the latter in black silk, black bonnet touched with scarlet; Mrs McLean, black silk, purple in her black bonnet; Dr. Walker, uniform of naval surgeon; Mrs Walker; Miss Essie Holland, pink Ottoman silk, the bodice swathed in muslin; Miss Crowther, white mousseline bodice, white silk skirt; the Misses Coffey, pretty summer costumes; Mrs J. Roach, lilac silk blouse, black skirt; Mrs Churton, cream gown, white hat; Mrs Hay, black and white cheek blouse, dark, skirt,black bonnet,with white tiowers; Mrs Hughes-Jones, green and black broche bodice. dark skirt, black toque; Mrs (Rev.) Sommerville, rich black silk, white silk front under cream lace, black bonnet, with white forget-me-nots; Miss Weston, blue and white stripe blouse, dark skirt; Miss F. Hart, white pique skirt, heliotrope silk blouse; Miss Rattray; Mrs and Miss Conolly; Mrs Grant, etc. KNOX CHURCH. This week's festivities will mark another era in Auckland’s history. An additional feature of interest is the City of the North’s welcome to His Excellency the Governor and the Countess of Ranfurly, who -favoured us with their presence at the opening ceremonies of our first Colonial Exhibition. On Tuesday afternoon last a very interesting ceremony took place, when Lord Ranfurly laid the foundation stone of Knox Church, Parnell, which is named after Lord Ranfurly’s illustrious kinsman. His Excellency was accompanied by Lady Ranfurly and Lady Constance Knox. A platform was erected under an awning, and was prettily decorated with palms and flags. Upon the arrival of the vice-regal party, little Miss Marjory Clark presented a beautiful bouquet of white flowers, maiden blush roses, and maiden-hair fern, to Lady Ranfurly, and Mrs Kelly, wife of the minister, was also presented with a bouquet from a baby in arms, the first child christened in the temporary church. Everyone was wearing their smartest toilettes, and the afternoon was sufficiently warm to make light gowns things to be desired. Lady Ranfurly wore a black silk check grenadine on the bias over a lovely eau de Nil silk, the bodice revealed a vest of plain silk, a narrow frill finished the skirt headed with rows of narrow black velvet to form vandykes, the same trimming being on the sleeves, black chip hat, with very broad crown, edged with gathered green and black chiffon, and caught up at the side with erect plumes and green chiffon rosettes resting on the hair; Lady Constance Knox looked very pretty in a silver grey Sicilian lustre frock, the sac jacket had revers and sailor collar of white silk, edged with three rows of silver braid, large grey chip hat. with a loosely twisted fold of white lisse, and pale grey plumes on one side; Mrs (Rev.) Kelly, pale green gown, with cream insertion lace, with narrow black velvet laced through, white straw Bond-street hat, with black band; Mrs Matthew Clark, silver grey spotted silk gown, trimmed with cream lace insertion and narrow black velvet, white silk tucked pouched vest, large black chip hat, with a huge white ribbon bow in front; Miss Marjory Clark looked very pretty in a white embroidered cambric frock, and white bonnet; Misses Keir were gowned in fawn lustre, with brown silk vests, brown chip hats, trimmed with cream lace and brown ribbon; Miss Mary Macnicol, pale grey lustre, with black silk facings, large Leghorn hat with black velvet band, and ruehing of white chiffon; Miss Norrie, tabac brown skirt and coat, white vest, white sailor hat; Mrs Haslett, green and white silk gown, bonnet en suite; Mrs Carrick, black gown; Mrs Paton, brown surah silk gown, black hat. with cream and brown striped ribbon and yellow roses; Mrs T. F. Robertson, rich black Ottoman silk, with jet, black chip bonnet, with posies of violets; Miss Robertson (Scotland), white Swiss muslin blouse, with touches of heliotrope, black crepon skirt, large white chip hat, trimmed with heliotrope ribbon and white quills, and red poppies resting on the hair; Mrs (Dr.) Baynton, black silk crepon gown, black bonnet, with black sequined ribbon bow; Mrs Stevenson, black brocade, black bonnet; Miss Stevenson, white pique blouse, black skirt, black picture hat; Mrs Sommerville, black silk gown, black bonnet, with white forget-me-

nots; Mrs A. Stewart, black silk, lace cape, black bonnet, with purple flowers; Miss Stewart, fawn cloth skirt, and coat, white goffered silk chiffon vest, white hat; Mrs T. Baxter, black and grey check gown, black toque with yellow roses; Miss Winks, white and black striped pique, fawn toque, trimmed with green; Mrs de Montalk, black silk, black bonnet, with yellow; Mrs Graves Aickin, black silk, black bonnet, with pink flowers; Miss Aickin, Neapolitan blue cloth skirt and Eton jacket, white and black check vest, white sailor hat, with black band; Miss Philson, green cloth costume, pink vest, white hat, with cluster of pink roses; Mrs Dacre. black gown, trimmed with satin ribbon; Miss V. Dacre, pale blue cambric; Mrs Thorne, brown costume; Miss Jessie Savage, grass lawn blouse, tucks edged with white, cream skirt, Panama hat. with huge eluster of roses; Mrs Frater. grey gown, trimmed with grey silk, black hat with pink flowers; Mrs Hughes-Jones, pretty amethyst gown, with trimmed flounce skirt, black toque; Mrs Atkinson, green and white floral gown, black and green bonnet; Miss Atkinson, white and heliotrope cheek costume; Miss Gilbert, white pique; Misses Bell, mourning costu mes.

There was a very large attendance of invited guests and the general public at the ceremony of OPENING THE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL.

This long-felt want, viz., the need of a separate building for the treatment of our sick little ones, is at length satisfied. All that now remains is for some generous friends to come forward and supplement the £l5OO already in hand for furnishing the same. One wing of the new building is for convalescent patients. The day was beautifully fine, tempered by a breeze from the sea, and the Hospital grounds with the magnificent view of the harbour thence obtainable looked their best. A guard of honour formed by the King’s College Cadets, was drawn up to receive His Excellency and the Countess of Ranfurly. These unfortunate lads had to stand in the blazing sun for some time, and despite the large force of medical men and trained nurses no notice was taken of the very evident suffering of many of them from the heat until seven had one after another fainted from its effects. Then the military surgeon (Dr. Leger Erson) ventured to suggest that the circumstances of the case might allow of a relaxation of discipline and order, and the cadets, many of them very white, were moved forward a few paces into the shade and permitted to stand at ease. The vice-regal party was, of course, punctual, and at three o'clock they arrived, and were received during the playing of the National Anthem by the Mayor (Mr Dignan), the Chairman of the Hospital and Charitable Aid Board (Mr J. Stichbury), representatives of various societies. Dr. Baldwin (Hospital medical superintendent), Mrs Wooten (matron), and all the available staff of nurses, etc. The Countess of Ranfurly was stylishly gowned in navy cloth faced with white, white vest, white hat with white feathers and crimson roses at the sideand under the brim. Lady Constance Knox wore a soft dove-grey coat and frock, pretty grey hat with feathers to match. Captain Alexander and Mr Garland accompanied them. Miss Rosa Stichbury presented Lady Ranfurly with a handsome bouquet, and Lady Constance Knox with a pretty basket- of flowers. There were some very pretty dresses worn, especially by the invited guests. Mrs Baldwin, wife of the resident medical man, was becomingly dressed in fawn spotted muslin over white silk, the skirt had two flounces edged with lace, black hat with chiffon and feathers; Mrs Wooten (matron), blue serge with red cross band on the arm; Mrs Masefield, very handsome black satin, with deep yellow insertion, lace across the bodice and lace on the skirt; black bonnet with chiffon bow, black plumes and mandarin yellow flowers; Miss Masefield, a pretty shade of cloud grey, pink chiffon plastron and neck band, white hat with feathers; Mrs Harrop, black skirt, blue and white striped blouse; Mrs Haines, an elegant summer costume of fawn spotted mousseline de soie over silk, striped silk sash, black fancy toque with shades of magenta floral trimming; Mrs Dignan. an effective mixture of fawn muslin and green silk Swiss belt, black hat with cerise trimming; Mrs Guttridge, all black: Mrs (Dr.) Walk-

er, pale lilac, blue cornflower in her bonnet; Mrs Darby, white muslin over blue; Mrs Erson, a deft combination of blue and green shades in her dress, upstand bows to match in her hat; Mrs J. J. Dixon, black; Mrs Peacocke, yellow muslin flowered with crimson, black hat with Mrs J. J. Dixon, black; Miss Peaa grey mixture with horizontal rows of pink ehiffon edged with primrose laee, >bonnet of tulle with green and roses; Mrs J. W. James, handsome black silk spotted crepon trimmed with jet beads, lace and chiffon ruffled shoulder cape, black bonnet; Miss James, very becoming lilac muslin with narrow striped yoke and trimmings, with fancy straw hat with feathers and ribbon;' the Misses Garland, white; Mrs Millar, green and red figured silk, white hat with bulging crown, covered with gold barred ehiffon, feather and white silk side bows; Mrs J. J, Holland, rich black silk and green, black bonnet with green touches; Miss Holland, white pique with pink; Mrs Alfred Nathan, a lovely cream silky material, faintly figured in colours, black toque; Miss Hooper, blue flowered muslin; Mrs Horace Walker, electric blue bengaline trimmed with rows of narrow black satin ribbon on skirt and bodice, white vest, straw hat with feathers and pale buff satin under spotted net; Mrs Devore, French grey coat and skirt, crushed strawberry silk vest kilted in yellow lace applique, very handsome black bonnet with a quantity of gold embroidery, pearls, and feathers; Mrs F. Barnard, black and white cheek, black chapeau; Mrs Nicholls, purple lilac, cream plastron, black hat; Miss McMillan, cream muslin; Miss Horne, pink and black; Miss Tole, white, blue scarf, black hat with yellow roses; Mrs Goldie, slate grey coat and skirt, blaek hat with feathers and blue trimming; Mrs King, small check silk with handsome bead embroidery facings, cream silk vest, purple and blue bonnet; Mrs Dacre, green shot silk, bonnet to match; Miss Girdler. white pique, white hat; Mrs Brabant, blaek, white plastron, pale yellow roses in her bonnet; Mrs Rose, brown costume, cream trimming; Mrs Hope Lewis, grey; Mrs Bedlington, blaek, mauve and black bonnet; Mrs Robson, white: Miss King, pink cambric with insertion, white hat; Mrs A. S. Russell, small-patterned pigeon grey silk, blaek bonnet relieved with pink; Mrs Upton, a grey and brown cheek, grey silk rucked plastron, jet bonnet with shaded roses; Miss Shepherd, petunia costume; Mrs Townsend, grey with black trimming, variegated bonnet: Miss May Sellers, fawn, hat to match with crimson silk ruehing; Mrs Bishop (Christchurch), mourning costume; Mrs Crowther, black, black bonnet with roses; Mrs and Miss Udy ; Mrs Nicholson, pale green, black hat with yellow roses; Miss Crust, black, green in her bonnet; Mrs Garland, blaek, pretty chapeau; Mrs Sydney Nathan, handsome pale green silk under fine blaek laee grenadine, black silk sash, beaded g'reen passementerie trimming, and bonnet with red and pink shades of flowers, chiffon and feathers; Miss Rattray, blaek; Mrs Jefferson, white pique coat and skirt, summer hat; Mrs Goodall, black dress; blaek bonnet; Mrs Chambers, black: Mrs Rattray, blaek; Miss Watson, white pique, white hat with flowers: oneMissKeesing in blue cambric skirt, blue striped blouse bodice, hat trimmed with darker blue and foliage; the other in white pique skirt, pale green and white striped blouse, hat to harmonise; one lady whom I did not know wore a pretty fancy silk with narrow velvet ribbon trimming, cream hat laden with roses.

At last the long-expected day fixed for the

OPENING OF THE EXHIBITION arrived and hist Thursday saw crowds of people wending their way to Princes-street to see or be seen, or perhaps to combine both. There was no difficulty in making through the Exhibition buildings along- the passages, lined with soldiers of various sorts, to the Choral Hall door, and there the crush began. Everyone was anxious to get in at once, so that it was difficult to see the smart frocks which had been specially made for this auspicious occasion. Full particulars of the opening ceremonies will be given elsewhere, so that only gowns need come under present consideration. The Countess of Ranfurly was very handsomely dressed in rich blue silk, brocaded with a small black and

white design. The skirt had two rows of white chiffon round the hem, the bodice opened over white silk covered with soft white chiffon, finished at the "throat with a large chiffon bow, narrow ehiffon frills at the wrists, white fancy hat with bulging crown and beautiful white ostrich plumes; Lady Constance Knox looked very pretty in white embroidered muslin, soft seagreen silk sash, white hat with white plumes. Amongst the many ladies present I distinguished Mrs Cowie in black silk, black bonnet with purple shaded ribbons: Mrs Macullagh, fawn eheck, trimmed with brown silk and cream lace, shaded bonnet with pansies; Mrs de Montalk, gold shot silk lustre, black toque with yellow flowers; Mrs Mahoney, white China silk, tucked sleeves, large white hat; Mrs Ross (Parnell), black; Mrs Kent, a very handsome costume; Mrs Brett, rich black silk with fawn and rose figured vest, black silk cape with narrow rows of silk braid, black bonnet relieved with flowers; Mrs Rainger, striped costume of green, black and golden brown, white silk vest, white hat with cream roses, spotted tulle and polyanthus at the back; Mrs Walcot Wood, violet velvet and silk striped horizontally, vest and yoke of white satin with shoulder tabs, tulle hat with violet flowers; Miss Brett, smoke grey coat and skirt with white pipings, white Leghorn hat with chiffon and feather; a lady with Mr Langguth wore a brown and cream mixed silk, straw hat, brown edged, with cream ribbon; Mrs Hope Lewis, grey, black and white check silk cuffs and vest, white hat; Mrs Ambrose Millar, blue-green flounced gown, large white hat with feathers and cream lace applique, white hat; Mrs A. P. Donald, black grenadine over pink silk, straw toque with black rose-pink bows: Mrs Finlayson, green and black floral brocade; Mrs Peacocke, black and gold brocade, a very handsome dress, black and gold bonnet with wheatears; Mrs King, floral muslin over green silk; Mrs Myers, silver grey and white striped grenadine over satin, black bonnet, with aigrette, ehiffon and flowers; Mrs Hughes, petunia shot lustre, heliotrope bonnet with cream flowers; Mrs Seegner, blue-gTey costume with white braid, white hat with pink roses and velvet; Miss Bertha Devore, blue floral muslin, a fawn and pink trimmed straw hat with large cluster of rosebuds; the American Consul's wife (Mrs Dillingham), a handsome dress of black and blue silk, cream lisse vest, accordion pleated, black chiffon round the throat, white hat with cerise flowers, cream ribbon and aigrette; Mrs O. Mays, black silk gown; Miss Mays, striped blouse, dark skirt; Miss Hope-Lewis, blue and white, white hat; Mrs (Dr.) Walker, green silky material trimmed with light brown silk, white chapeau with orange red roses; Miss Larkins, blue shot dress with peacock blue silk, black ehip hat with pottle crown, violet flowers; Mrs Hanna, black, hat with apple green ribbon and apple blossoms; Mrs J. J. Craig, grass lawn muslin over pink silk, black toque with black chiffon and upstanding pink ribbon bows; Miss Myers, floral muslin with touches of pink, white hat with pink roses; Mrs Bollard, black figured lustre dress, lace mantle,

black hat with erect bows of electric blue ribbon and passementerie; Mrs Napier, stylish navy cloth tailor-made, cream moire facings, small sailor hat; Miss Aubin, white Swiss muslin and insertion over salmon pink, black hat with ecru and coloured roses; Mrs Aubin, black satin: Mrs Hunter, pale grey skirt, pale striped blouse, black hat with purple; Mrs Holland, black silk, cream lace plastron, cream lace butterfly bow in her bonnet with osprey; Miss Hewin, French grey with black braid, white hat turned up at the brim: Mrs Tewsley, white pique, Leghorn hat with white plumes and salmon pink roses; Mrs Arthur Nathan, Neapolitan blue with cream silk let in at the back and front of the bodice, black hat with green ribbon; Miss Holland, white pique, large pink bow at the throat, black hat with pink ribbon and feathers; the Misses Keesing were in different tones of grey, one with coat and skirt, white hat with purple flowers, the other with sleeves of a darker shade, grey hat with pink; Mrs Andrew Hanna, French grey silk, with rows of narrow black velvet, white silk vest; two pretty girls were dressed most charmingly in grey with white chiffon bows at

the throat, black velvet hats with white plumes; Mrs Matthew Clark, silver grey silk, white vest, black hat with violets; Mrs L. D. Nathan, grey silk skirt, flowered with black, white facings with black braiding, a touch of orange round the neck, toque of violets; Mrs Nelson, navy coat and skirt, white chiffon vest, bonnet with tinsel crown and magenta roses; Miss Burgess, green floral muslin, apple green satin yoke, sailor hat; Mrs Dufaur, black crepon, cerise plastron, black hat with cerise rosettes; Mrs John Reid, new shade of blue spotted muslin, flounced skirt edged with lace, trimmed with narrow velvet, large black hat with plumes; Mrs Broughton. black with green yoke and revers, bead garniture, black hat with pink and red roses and green ribbon; Mrs Dunean Clerk, white pique, white hat; Mrs Kenderdine, dahlia-brown dress with darker sleeves and velvet, hat with white feather and black ribbon; Mrs Kilgour, white pique, white chip hat with white lisse and flowers: Mrs Gorrie, grey, black bonnet trimmed with heliotrope and plumes; Miss Gorrie, white pique, black chip hat turned up with roses; Mrs Devore, grey tinted muslin, with a tiny design of pink and black trimmed with frills edged with fine black lace, black bonnet with pink osprey and pink rosettes; Miss May White, sea-green muslin over pink, the yoke having rows of black velvet, black hat with crimson and pink roses; Miss Towsey, blue muslin flecked with brown, white hat with spotted black tulle, white wings nnd pale pink roses under the brim; Mrs Dennison, white pique, black hat with plumes: Mrs Wilson Smith, pink and white blouse, white skirt, white hat; Miss Devore, white blouse, plumcoloured skirt, white Leghorn hat; Miss Slater, navy, Eton jacket, white tucked sailor collar, white gem hat: Mrs Jones, an Oriental mixture of purple and sage green, etc., bonnet with chiffon and flowers; Mrs Caselberg, fawn tailor-made costume, white hat: Mrs Kempthorne. black grenadine striped with violet, yellow ribbon and orange bonnet trimmings: Miss Kempthorne, white dress, black hat with sea-green shot silk and blue quills; Miss Morrin, white Indian muslin; Mrs Johansen, heliotrope silk blouse, dark skirt, heliotrope in her toque; Mrs W. R. Holmes, stylish green and white check skirt made on the cross, bodice of cream canvas over green silk, and trimmed with green chiffon frills, black hat with roses; Mrs Trask (Nelson), stylish gown; Mrs A. Porter, bottle green velvet blouse, dark skirt, black hat with flowers; Mrs C. Houghton, black: Mrs Dockrill, (New Plymouth); Mrs Crowther; Mrs Jennings; Mrs Blair, pink and white check blouse, dark skirt, large black hat with pink flowers; Mrs James Russell, handsome costume: Mrs Herries: Miss Wilkins, fawn cloth gown, Eton jacket faced with white moire, pink vest, white bat with pink flowers: Mrs Peter Lindsay, grey gown, blue vest, toque with blue; Miss Dargaville, heliotrope check zephyr, green straw hat with heliotrope wings: Mrs Reid Bloomfield, brown and pink floral silk, brown and pink bonnet: Mrs E. Bell; Mrs Thorne George, handsome black Matalasie silk gown, black bonnet with butterfly bow in front; Mrs Boak; Mrs Dewsbury, black and white costume: Mrs Colbeek, black and white check gown; Miss Buddle, white pique, small white hat; Mrs Ledingham. pretty costume; Miss Halyday; Mrs Thomas .Morrin. stylish black and white check silk gown with an applique design on bodice and skirt, white silk vest, black hat with plumes and roses; Miss McGlashan; Mrs John Chambers, sen., mourning; Miss Wallace; Miss Shepherd; Mrs J. IL Hanna, black silk grenadine over pale green silk, pink silk vest, green hat with touches of pink; Miss Hanna, white China silk.

white hat: Miss Kent: Mrs A. G. Purehas. handsome costume; Miss Effie Hanna, pink blouse, green skirt. Leghorn hat; Miss Geddis; Miss Churton, rose pink striped blouse, dark skirt; Mrs McDonald; Miss Al. McDonald, grey; Miss Dolly Davis, tartan silk blouse, dark skirt, black hat with roses: Airs H. Jones, blue and white striped blouse, dark skirt: Mrs Bathbone, old rose gown trimmed with a darker shade velvet, large white hat with white plumes; Mrs E. Lewis, black: Mrs .1. AL Geddis; Miss McGregor. slate grey costume; Mrs R. M. Watt, grey and white floral muslin, white silk tucked yoke, floral toque; Mrs T. Hodson; Miss K. Thompson,

white spotted muslin; Miss Thompson, green and white check blouse, dark skirt, green hat; Miss Lusk, pretty white China silk blouse with tucks, dark skirt; Mrs F. Maguire; Miss Purchas.white pique, small white hat; Mrs J. E. Page: Mrs Churton. buff cambric, white hat; Airs S. Gilbert, green gown trimmed with cream lace, hat with white ribbon; Airs AV. Geddis, pretty slimmer muslin, small white hat; Mrs Littler, grass lawn, hat with pink; Aliss Gertrude Buddle, white muslin, hat with green flowers: Airs Batchelder: Airs Robin Hay, white, black and white hat; Airs Rose; Airs Thorne, brown costume; Airs Hymns, grev costume, white silk vest, floral hat; Mrs J. Baker, black, bonnet to match; Alisses Hooper wore blue ami pink muslins respectively;Mrs Banks; Aliss Gorrie. pique skirt, check blouse, white hat; .Miss Ada Dixon, tussore silk gown, white lace insertion on bodice: Afiss Rosa Laird; Airs Niccol, grey skirt and coat, white silk vest; Airs Lang; Aliss Rose, grey; .Mrs Hunt, cream striped blouse, black skirt, black hat with cluster of flowers; Airs Ruck, black and grev, bonnet to match; Airs Howard,' black; .Mrs Cairns; Airs Oliphant; Mrs Garrick; Airs Crammond (nee Aliss Howard), pale green costume; Mrs Morpeth, black; Airs Braithwaite, pale green costume; Airs H. Campbell, very pretty silver grey dress, black picture hat; Airs Brown, pink and brown silk, pretty pink bonnet; Aliss Holland,black and white; Airs Nathan, navy blue costume, large picture hat; Afiss Shrewsbury, pale cream silk blouse, black skirt, black hat; Miss Coffey wore a pretty white dress, white gem hat; Aliss Roskrnge looked well wearing a costume of cornflower blue, large hat with flowers. A very enjoyable JUVENILE DANCE was given by Airs .Alfred Nathan at her residence, ‘Wickford,’ I’rinces-st., on Tuesday evening. It was held as a farewell to the friends of Master Harold Nathan, who is about to leave for England for the purpose of completing his education. Dancing- commenced at 8, and was kept up till nearly 12 o'clock, and even then the delighted guests could scarcely believe they had danced long enough. An excellent supper was continuously dispensed between the dances. .Miss Rosie Nathan looked very dainty in a pretty, blue silk, trimmed with white chiffon; Aliss Daisy Benjamin, white muslin; Aliss Nelson, white silk; her sister, pink silk; the Alisses Russell, white silk; Aliss Reed; Miss Haslett, green muslin; Aliss Vera Caro, dainty white, silk; Aliss Denniston, white; Alisses Devore, Eileen Lewis, Weir, Kronfeldt; Aliss Ida Thompson, blue. .Most of the youngladies wore white. Airs Nathan heraelf was charming in a handsonqe. white satin. A few of her friends were invited specially to help to entertain. and amongst them I noticed Airs Benjamin. the Alisses Aloss Davis, and Aliss Kohn.

A few of the very young- friends of Aliss Gladys Nathan were entertained in the afternoon from three to seven —a most sensible arrangement for wee folks. Air ami Airs Howard gave a most ENJOYABLE BALL at their residence. Central House. Hob-son-street. on the 2<)th ult. Air and Airs Howard received the guests upon their arrival, and the proverbial hospitality of host nnd hostess was fully maintained. Dancing began at nine o'clock, and most exquisite music was supplied by Alessrs L. Neumeg-en. Woollams and Getties. Lavish preparations had been made in the way of decorations. The ball-room presented a gay and pleasing effect. The bare walls were panelled with dark green felt, the roof festooned with evergreens, flags and Chinese lanterns. 1 he lawn and terraces forming- a delightful promenade to the dancers, were artisieally lit with lanterns and fairy lights, which was a work of art worthy of record. The spacious dining-room was converted into an elegant supper-room, the table decorations being of gold and green silk, flowers and fairy lights to correspond. Amongst the ladies there was a prevalence of white dresses. The most noticeable were: Mrs Howard, charming gown gold mirror satin, trimming of heliotrope silk and chiffon; Airs Schttpp. lovely gown white satin; Airs Dix looked well in maize satin, pearl trimming's; Airs .Mendelssohn, black satin.

trimmings real laee; Airs Abbot, pretty pale blue silk; Airs Hart, black moire relieved with eream: Aliss Hart, (debutante), pretty white silk gown, trimming of chiffon. Amongst other ladies present were: Alesdames Alathews, Squirrel!. Woollams, Oudlani, Neumegen. Raynes. Goldwater. Buchanan, Alisses .Mendelssohn (2), Ogilvie (2), Goldwater. Goodwin. Belcher. Larkins, Gilmour. Ballin. Lonergan, Knight, and others whose names I could not ascertain. Amongst the gentlemen were .Messrs Busbv. Dix, Ballin (2). Goldwater (2), Ratjen, Jaekson, Neumegen. Foster. Todd, Buchanan, Raynes. Abbot, Fronde, Hart. Griffin. Earl. Squirrell. Kelly. Jones. Wright (2). Howden, Gilmour. Johnson. Brown. Haven. Tavlor. etc. A most enjoyable l"R(Xl RESSI V E EUCHRE BARTA' was given by Airs Wynyard at her residence ‘.Moor End.' Epsom, last Friday evening, when about forty guests were present. The top prizes were won bv Miss Otway and Air Gordon, and the booby prizes by Miss Percival ami .MiShepherd. Euchre was kept up till eleven o’clock, when dancing- was indulged in until an early hour. The table decorations were very effective, and the supper was a most excellent one. and was evidently appreciated by everyone. Amongst those present were .Mrs Wynyard. black silk; Miss Wynyard, who looked charming- after her three months' trip to Gisborne, was dressed in pale pink: Mrs Otwav, black relieved with white: Mrs Whyte, black; .Mrs Harry Wynyard, erenin with gold trimming: Miss Shepherd, looked elegant in blue: Miss Gurr (Gisborne), black ami white; Aliss Carr, pink; Aliss Otway, white silk -with red roses; Miss Burns, eream; Aliss Pearl Little, white silk; Miss Percival, white with red: Miss Torrance, blue; Miss Coekraue, white; Aliss A’onge. white: Afiss Alaggie Suttie. blue: Aliss Bleazard-Brown looked well in white; Aliss Whyte, cream. Among the gentlemen present were Alessrs Wynyard (3), Suttic (2). Frost. 1 homson, Ferguson, Gordon. Hume, Bleazard-Brown. Shepherd, A’onge, Laird, Burns, O'Halloran, etc. Airs Moss Davis gave a l:ir<>-e MI'SICA I. AT HOM E' on Alonday from four o'clock to six at her residence in Princes - street. Albert Park. Mr and Mrs Moss Davis received the guests in the large reception room and were ablv assisted to entertain by their daughters and son. A tent was erected in the garden where a. lady deep in Hie lore of palmistry sat in state and in perfect readiness to read any of the guests' past and future, and. of course, everybody, especially the ladies, wanted their future foretold, though they did not care tor their past. The Italian musicians played their soft dreamy music on the lawn near a large bow window, so that its strains exquisitely floated through the many reception and refreshment rooms. The latter, two in number, were thrown open soon after the guests arrival, so that they could pass through ad lib and partake of the tasty refreshments, which. I think, is a much better idea than haling* them dispensed just at the moment prior to departure, which makes it rather like •> scramble. The vocal music of the afternoon was furpished by the best of Auckland's amateur singers Mr Archdale I a.vler. Miss K. Thompson. Miss .Moss Davis, etc. The best item during the afternoon was the humorous song contributed by the talented Mrs (Dr.) Sharman. which was verv much appreciated. There was no stiffness about this function on account of the guests being allowed to roam whither they listed, ami it took the form of a garden party, lees, strawberries and cream, and other tasty delicacies were dispensed in the reception rooms. Mrs Moss Davis, white satin, veiled in black laee. becoming violet floral toqu ■: Miss Moss Davis looked well in a cream serge skirt, made with a simulated flounce, which hung- in folds to the nd in a most graceful manner, being tight from the waist and around the hips (this fashion being quite the idol of this summer), white bodice, with skv blue yoke and cuffs, black hat. turned up. with pink roses: Miss Sybi-I Moss Davis wore a skirt similar to her sister. white blouse, with laee. black hat; the two youngest Misses Moss Davis wore blue and white figured frocks, white picture hats; Mrs Thoinns Morrin, stylish grey striped silk, with

blue vest and cuffs, the skirt was handsomely braided with grey, black mushroom hat; Mrs Alfred Nathan looked very lovely in cream striped silk, with lace and gold bead trimming: Miss Ireland, green, with lace insertion: her sister, dark skirt, light blouse; Mrs Williams and Mrs Pritt, black mourning costumes; Mrs McArthur, green costume; Miss Towsey, white skirt, fawn tussore silk blouse; Mrs S. Morrin; Miss Mona Thompson, grey costume, trimmed with blue ; Miss K. Thompson; Mrs Reid Bloomfield, black : Mrs Willie Bloomfield, looked very beautiful in white silk, with lace, black velvet hat; Mrs Lucas Bloomfield, grey check, with black braid, rose eorail silk toque; Miss Horton, white; Mrs Tewsley, white; Misses Isaacs; Mrs Charles Haines, rose corail pink silk, veiled in fawn lace: Mrs ,1. Smith; Miss Smith; Mrs Markham, white pique; Mrs Ranson; Mrs (Dr.) Lewis, black; Mrs and Miss Peacock (Ponsonby); Mrs and Miss Kerr-Taylor; Mrs Sidney Nathan; Mrs and Miss MacFarlane; Mrs Arthur Nathan, navy blue costume; Miss Julia Nathan, white silk skirt, dome blue silk blouse, cream picture hat. profusely trimmed with variegated roses; Mrs Caselberg; Mrs W. H. Churton, pretty cream costume, toque en suite; Mrs .1, Mowbray; Mrs John Roach, handsome black mourning costume of crepon and black beads, white silk cuffs, yoke and collarette, veiled in black lace, black hat. with white silk poppies; Mrs (Dr.) Sharman, very handsome cream serge costume, with gold braid, black velvet hat ; Mrs Wilfred Rathbone, pink terre costume. trimmed with velvet; Mrs Hamlin, black: Miss Little, pink muslin; Miss Caro, white: Miss Benjamin, white; Mrs IL Griffiths, brown: Mrs and Miss Ware; Mrs and Miss Cotter; Mrs and Miss Gill; Mrs R. Dargaville, grey costume; Miss Dargaville. mauve muslin, white sailor hat. with green band and mauve bows: Mrs Archdale Tayler. small grey and black check; Mrs Keesing: Mrs McMillan; Miss McMillan. fawn lace costume, with mauve Empire sash; Mrs Duthie: Mrs Nelson; Miss Wilkins, fawn and pink; Mrs Chambers, black: Mrs Chambers, jun., slate grey: Mrs Edward Lewis, black; Miss Dolly Davis; Mrs Humphrey Haines, very pretty pink costume, made in yachting style, with white lace vest: Miss Gill, lovely Lincoln green tailor-made gown, white vest; Mrs Ching, very handsome black mourning costume; Mrs L. D. Nathan, handsome combination of black satin, with plaid trimming’, toque with red flowers; Miss S. Nathan, stylish English costume; Miss Large, white; Mrs Preston Stevenson, pretty pink and black costume, toque with pink roses; Miss White, Mrs and Miss Edmiston, Mrs (Dr.) Lindsay. Messrs W. Rathbone, A. Tayler, Hogg. Crombie. J. Philips, P. A. Philips, Purchas. Eller, Dr. Sharman, Rabbi Goldstein, the Captains and several officers from the two warships now in harbour. This was another function given as a. farewell to Miss Sybil Nathan. At the BANJO CONCERT Lady Ranfurly wore a handsome black satin evening gown, bodice elaborately embroidered with jet; Lady Constance Knox, soft white frock. There was a fashionable attendance at the Choral Hall on Thursday last on the occasion of the production of SULLIVAN’S ‘GOLDEN LEGEND’ in connection with the Exhibition. The ladies of the choir and orchestra were prettily gowned in white, with red sashes for the contraltos and blue for the sopranos. The vice-regal party was present. The Countess of Ranfurly wore a most becoming evening dress of rich white satin brocade, the bodice was of cerise silk, veiled in filmy chiffon, the short sleeves were bordered with cerise shaded roses, and the same flowers nestled on the corsage and in the waved dark hair; Madam Du Rieu wore a dainty confection of cloudy grey lisse over white silk, the long sleeves were of the same diaphanous material, the low corsage was brightened with a touch of orange and a jewelled ornament. orange sun-ray pleated cape; Miss Large, very pretty pink silk gown softened with white chiffon; Mrs Devore, black satin evening gown, spangled white satin epaulettes; Miss Devore, white silk skirt, yellow silk bodice with berthe of face, long transparent sleeves: Mrs Holland, black silk; Miss Holland, yellow brocade bodice arranged with

white lace; Mrs Thorne George, rich black satin gown; Mrs Colbeck, black satin; Miss Ida George, black satin, white silk long sleeves veiled with black chiffon; Mrs McMillan, handsome black silk gown; Miss Earle looked graceful in eream silk with orange brocaded sleeves, Medici collar and sash; Mrs Rainger, blue satin gown, bodice veiled with blue pleated silk chiffon; Mrs Walcot Wood wore a very handsome nil green Ottoman silk gown, the low corsage being lightly draped with cream silk lace, trails of pink roses on shoulders and a cluster of the same flowers resting on her hair; Mrs H. Lloyd Brett was attired in a rich black brocade, the bodice covered with cream lace of a Honiton design, and finished with black velvet and chiffon; Miss Tilly, white figured silk evening bodice, trimmed with pearls, long white lace sleeves, black satin skirt; Miss Williams. yellow silk, low corsage edged with handsome pearl passementerie; Mrs Rathbone, old rose gown trimmed with velvet; Mrs Fenton, black; Mrs Egerton. white China silk gown; Mrs Hope Lewis, black evening gown, square cut corsage edged with a band of velvet studded with jet; Mrs Hunt, pretty pink silk, evening gown; Mrs (Dr.) Scott, black silk, white opera cape: Miss Brodie, black evening gown; Miss Brett, black long lace sleeves, square cut bodice brightened with crimson and cream silk Maltese lace; Mrs Cotter, handsome black satin, white chiffon plastron; Miss Colter, white silk bodice with cachings of emerald green chiffon, green silk skirt; Miss Winnie Cotter, black satin, white opera cape; Miss M. Cotter, soft white; Mrs Ashton Bruce, pink silk bodice with jet garniture, black skirt: Mrs Robison, white silk evening bodice trimmed with jet and chiffon edged with black, black skirt; Miss A. Murray, white silk trimmed with chiffon; Mrs E. Mahony wore an effective white China silk gown, the sleeves being clinging and tucked, white osti-ich feather trimming arranged on bodice; Mrs Burgess (New Plymouth), green broche evening bodice with white satin tabs from low neck, dark skirt: Mrs Napier looked exceedingly well in a black silk evening gown; Mrs Millar, cream evening gown; Mrs Townley (Gisborne), black satin, pink silk vest, handsome pink and black velvet brocaded cape; Mrs Hughes, shot silk lustre gown; Mrs N. Bagnall, terracotta silk gown; Mrs Parr looked pretty in black, silk with a very handsome white satin pointed opera cape trimmed with jet and white chiffon; Mrs A. B. Donald, black gown relieved with pink; Mrs Geddis, white silk, low corsage fringed with pearls; Miss Geddis, grey silk gown; Miss Reeves, green silk with pink chiffon introduced on bodice; Mrs Myers, black gown trimmed with foams of black chiffon and jet; Mrs Cheeseman, black lace over rose pink silk, pink silk yoke veiled with white lisse; Miss Walnutt, pink silk evening gown; Mrs Jackson, white gown; Miss Wallace, black and amyethest broche blouse, dark skirt; Miss Macdonald. rose pink satin evening bodice trimmed with chiffon, black skirt. Mrs Sidney Nathan gave a LARGE ‘AT HOME’ last Tuesday afternoon as a farewell to Miss Sybil Nathan. The Italian Band were again in request and played their sweet harmonies in an anteroom off the two reception rooms. Mrs Sidney Nathan received us in her usual cordial manner at the entrance of the first reception room, which was gaily and profusely decorated with the choicest and most fragrant of roses. The second room was adorned with vases of daisies and red poppies. Misses Myers ably assisted our hostess to entertain her numerous guests. Songs were contributed by Mrs Archdale Tayler, Mrs (Dr.) Lawry, etc. The decoration of the tea-table was quite a work of art, having the English combination colours, red. white and blue. Ribbons of these three colours hung artistically from the gas chandelier, suspending a beautiful letter ‘S’ of white flowers, representing Sybil, whom the afternoon function was given in honour of. Vases of red. white and blue flowers intermingled with ribbons of the same colour added most wonderfully to this pleasing effect. Mrs Sidney Nathan, electrique blue, veiled in black lace, handsomely trimmed with passementerie; Miss Myers and Miss Ettye Myers looked fresh and dainty in white shower muslins and 'ace; Mrs Baume, handsome

bronze watered silk; Mrs Louis Myers, grey silk; Mrs William Coleman, very striking plaid silk costume: Mrs Leo Myers looked chie in canary silk, veiled in white muslin; Mrs A. Myers, black costume, with beads; Mrs Keesing; Mrs Ingall, yellow striped muslin. grey hat, with feathers; Mrs L. D. Nathan, plaid skirt, green silk blouse, toque with pink flowers; Miss Sybil Nathan, green stripe costume, violet floral hat; Mrs Thomas Morrin. white pique skirt, sapphire blue silk blouse; Mrs Charles Haines, rose pink, veiled in fawn; Mrs Kilgour, white pique; black velvet hat; Mrs and Miss Cotter; Mrs MacFarlane; Mrs Ware; Mrs Whitney, green silk costume, with black spots, pink vest, green hat. with pink roses; Miss Horton, white; Mrs Burns, black silk, sprigged with a canary flower; Miss Burns, white pique, very becoming violet hat; Mrs Ching, black mourning costume; Mrs (Dr.) Lindsay, fawn, with blue vest, smart blue plaid ribboned toque; Misses Lennox: Mrs Hardie, black; Miss Hardie, white pique, violet hat; Mrs McMillan: Miss McMillan, white muslin; Mrs Archdale Tayler. grey check; Miss Julia Nathan, white costume; Miss Large (Napier), white; Miss Donald: Miss Craig-, blue flowered muslin; Miss Caro, white skirt, grey blouse, with pink chiffon: Mrs Isidor Alexander; Miss Stella Alexander; Mrs Caselberg: Miss Coates, white; Mrs Clifton, black skirt, pink check blouse, toque with roses; Mrs Kingswell. black silk, rose corail silk toque; Mrs Walcot Wood (Christchurch), filmy green muslin, with crescent shape design of a darker hue. with fine white lace edging, the waist was encircled by a folded band of green ribbon, ending in bows and streamers at back, white hat. trimmed with lilies of the valley and green leaves; Mrs Rainger, brown, blue and black striped costume, with white lace applique from waist to hem of skirt, white hat, with yellow cowslips; Miss Brett, soft grey Bengaline, trimmed with white, white vest; Miss J. Reeves, grey cheek costume; Misses Conolly (2); Miss Sellers; Misses Kempthorne (2); Miss Coleman,purple silk, veiled in black lace, and finished with heliotrope vest; Miss M. Coleman, grey; Mrs Moss Davis; Miss S. Moss Davis; Misses Kerr-Taylor; Mrs Edward Lewis; Miss Dolly Davis; Mrs (Dr.) Lawry. black costume; Mrs Edmiston; Miss Ashton, dark skirt, light blouse; Misses Gorrie; Miss Lucas; Mrs Arthur Nathan. Mrs N. Alfred Nathan gave a LARGE ‘AT HOME' on Wednesday last at her residence, ‘Wickford,’ Princes-st., which was a very brilliant and successful function given as a farewell to Miss Sybil Nathan. Mr and Mrs Nathan ' received their guests in their usual cordial manner at the entrance of the reception room. The gentlemen were in the majority, so the ladies had an excellent time. There was no necessity for any wall flowers as our host and hostess introduced the strangers, so that everybody enjoyed themselves. A marquee was erected at the entrance of the house and was divided in two parts, one portion being set apart as a gentlemen’s smoking room; the other as a cool retreat for the non-dancers and chaperones. From here the dancers could be watched through the large bow window of the ballroom. The floor was in capital order, the children's dance on the prior evening- having worked it into perfect dancing condition. Burke’s band supplied the music. Upstairs we found two balconies thrown open for our use, one overlooking the exhibition ground, which was lit up in preparation for the next day (the opening one), and of course as all our hostess' guests wanted to have a glimpse of what was in preparation for the morrow, this balcony became in very much request. The other balcony overlooked Princes-street, where those who wished for a quiet tete-a-tete found this much cosier than the opposite side. A large marquee was erected at the back of the house for supper, where we found everything in fairy like precision. The decorations were profuse and tasteful. Opposite to the entrance door of the supper marquee, the guests’ eyes were attracted by the beautifully decorated words ‘adieu,’ worked in white daisies and shivery grass with a black back ground. Above this were two S’s artistically decorated in roses. The marquee itself was transformed into a supperroom. decorated with lycopodium, baskets of ferns, etc., and draped

with flags. The large centre table was draped with mignonette green silk relieved with cream silk and vases of sweet pea flowers in every colour, mixed with maiden hair ferti. Small tables were arranged round with seating accommodation for two. The seating accommodation of the whole was for about sixty people. Here we found prepared an' excellent champagne supper with all the delicacies in and out of season. During the early part of the evening light refreshments of claret cup, ices, etc., were dispensed, the table being uniquely decorated with vases of gladiolas and ferns. The mantelpiece of ballroom was sweetly banked with roses. The rival belles were Misses Devereux, S. Moss Davis, and E. McFarlane. Mrs Alfred Nathan looked very lovely in a white silk, with three small frills on edge of skirt, the decolletage was one mass of billowy lace finished on shoulder with spray of salmon pink flowers, and fastened with diamond brooch, diamond necklet, ostrich feathers in coiffure; Mrs L. D. Nathan looked very well in an English costume of black silk veiled in black gauzy material with gold spangled wave-traced designs, bands of red velvet round bodice, and finished with diamonds; Miss Sybil Nathan looked well in white satin, with diamond ornaments, her coiffure dressed high in coils; Mrs Arthur Nathan, black lace with lace trimmings. and finished with gold; Miss Julia Nathan looked dainty as usual in a white frilled and striped mousseline de soie, coiffure arranged in small knot at nape of neck; Mrs Edward Lewis, black silk, with black jet beads; Miss Dolly Davis, creamy fawn silk; Mrs Thomas Morrin, greysatin with silver beads and tulle; Miss Morrin, white satin, with mousseline de soie evening bodice; Mrs Sam Morrin. grey silk finished with white lace and pink roses; Miss Firth, black lace costume with white satin vest, black aigrette in hair: Mrs James Russell, blue broche with pink flowers; Miss Thompson, black with white lace; Miss K. Thompson, canary- silk with violets in coiffure; Miss J. Reeve, pink silk with wreath of pink flowers on shoulder and in coiffure; Miss Hardie, white silk finished with scarlet; Miss Flora McDonald, pink creponette; Miss Dargaville, blue broche very much ruched round bodice and finished with tulle; Miss Devereux was much admired in white silk with scarlet flowers; Miss McFarlane, w-hite relieved with red, and her sister looked attractive in mauve with wicketwork bands of ribbon velvet on corsage; Mrs Moss Davis, apricot brocaded silk finished with white lace, diamond necklet; Miss Moss Davis, white satin with white lace, scarlet flower in coiffure; Miss Sybil Moss Davis looked picturesque in white; Miss Williamson, dark skirt, pink evening blouse with sash and streamers of pink; Miss Churton, white with scarlet flowers; Miss Mabel Churton, white silk blouse with yellow bows, yellow skirt; Miss Mowbray, cream silk trimmed with a darker line; Miss Horton, white broche; Misses Kerr Taylor (2), pink muslins; Miss Ware, black net costume with white roses on decolletage; Miss Brodie, black net with silver beads; Miss Sareta McLaughlin. white silk with bands of canary- ribbon round bodice; Miss Kohn, white silk profusely- trimmed with chiffon and relieved with ostrich feathers on shoulder and coiffure; Mrs Benjamin, blue broche; Miss Stella Alexander, white debutante silk; Miss Maud Wilkins, black silk with band of yellow ribbon on decol-letag-e and wreath of yellow flowers on shoulder; Messrs Anderson, Firth, Mowbray, Benjamin. L. D. Nathan, Leckie, Arthur Nathan, Moss Davis, Purchas. Cariminer, Keesing, Pickering, Rutherford. Bere, Gordon, Hogg. Kerr Taylor, Daveney, McLaughlin. Biss (2), Gillies, Myers, Taylor, Phillips (2). Nelson. Bruce, Crombie, Nathan. Williamson. Eller, Rabbi Goldstein. Dr. Pabst, Dr. Parkes, and several officers of H.M.s. now in harbour.