COMPLIMENTARY CONCERT.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXIII, Issue XII, 16 September 1899, Page 498

COMPLIMENTARY CONCERT.

A number of friends of Mr Michael Walsh of the Albion Hotel, Auckland, tendered him a complimentary smoke concert last Wednesday evening, advantage being taken of the occasion to present him with a very handsome and elaborately designed illuminated address. Councillor Courtney occupied the chair, and in making the presentation spoke of his knowledge of Mr Walsh’s antecedents and the very creditable way in which he had conducted the menage of the Albion, testifying at the same time the high social status of his European friends and the service rendered to the Queen and country by his uncle, Mr Thomas Walsh, in the Imperial Parliament. A very pleasant programme was gone through, including songs and recitations, Messrs Bush, Ellis, Hetherington, Bickerton, and Smerdon contributing to the vocal entertainment, and Mr Jones giving two excellent recitations. Mr Tapper presided at the piano, and was accorded a hearty vote of thanks for his able execution. The following address, executed in Mr Gulliver’s best and happiest style, was presented by Mr Courtney, who characterised it as most unique in his experience of Auckland:—“Michael H. Walsh, Esq.—Dear Sir,—We, the undersigned, representing a large circle of your friends and neighbours, desire to take this opportunity of express ing the high esteem in which you are held as the proprietor of the Albion Hotel. During the four years you have controlled the establishment it has been apparent to all that you were determined to conduct your business on the strict lines of sobriety and respectability. Your general urbanity of manner, combined with a generous disposition, have earned for you the goodwill of all. The subscribers to this token of respect are unanimous in wishing you every happiness and prosperity, sincerely hoping that your severance from the neighbourhood and the Albion Hotel will be long delayed. On their behalf we beg to affix dhr signatures.— (Signed) W. J. Courtney, etc., etc.