The Christmas Tree at the Children’s Hospital, Auckland.

New Zealand Graphic, Volume XXVI, Issue I, 5 January 1901, Page 46

The Christmas Tree at the Children’s Hospital, Auckland.

No doubt there were many happy folks on Christmas Eve, but between the hours of three and five none, I am sure, were happier than the children and convalescent patients at the Auckland Hospital. The Christmas tree and entertainment arranged by the Graphic, and to which several cousins contributed by sending dolls, etc., was a most splendid success. The tree was a grand one, very kindly supplied by Mr Goldie, of the Domain. It was so high we had to have a huge ladder to reach the top in decorating and in taking off the presents. Each child had two presents, also a fancy stocking of toys and lollies and a cracker. The girls all had dolls, and a great number of the smaller boys too. They simply loved them, because they dressed and undressed so nicely, and all the clothes were so pretty and so beautifully made. One little girl had just had an operation that morning, and was very pale. poor little mite, but was operation, poor little mite, but was allowed to be wheeled in in her bed. A number of the children had to come in their beds, while others had crutches and chairs to support their poor injured legs. Three little fellows were in the fever ward, and could not come, but be sure we sent them some lovely presents. It was a merry time indeed, when we began to strip the tree. A large number of grownup patients who were well enough came down from the other wards, and every inch of room was occupied. Every child seemed convinced he or she had got the very nicest present in the world, and there was much laughter as the crackers were pulled, and the caps and masks they contained were fitted on to the little heads. It was sad, too, in a way, to see such pale faces in some cots, but even these were brightened with the joy of the treat. Then began the Punch and Judy show. It was a really splendid one by Professor Beckford, and how we all did laugh at Mr Punch and his dreadful actions. Then came Mr James Bain, the very clever English variety artist and comic singer, who has been all over the colony. Mr Bain is at the head of his profession, and his kindness in coming up and singing for no fee except the gratitude of the children was much appreciated. He sang three songs, and we were all quite weak with laughing when he finished. The faces he made were simply excruciating. Then Miss Brightie Berry and Miss Freda Hunter gave us a coon song and dance, and as an encore an Irish jig by Miss Brightie Berry. I never imagined

children could danee so well. It was simply splendid, and Ixith were most, rapturously applauded: indeed, we eould not have enough of them. Mr Montague told two very funnystories. and then we had another little play by Bunch and Judy to wind up with. It was really a lovely afternoon, and all enjoyed it very inueh. Those who gave presents, and those who assisted, have the warm thanks of not only the hospital authorities. but also of Cousin Kate and the “Graphic” staff.