ST. MARY'S SCHOOLS, NELSON.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XVIII, Issue 12, 18 July 1890, Page 31

ST. MARY'S SCHOOLS, NELSON.

(Fiona the Colonist,')

On Wednesday, June 25, aa enteitainment was given at the convent echool, by the pupils, in honour of tbe Very Rev. Father Mahoney's festival, (St. William). Ihe programme was an excellent one, and the young people acquitted themselves admirably. The Most Reverend and Vicar-General (Father M'Namara), who is here on a visit from Wellington, complimented the performers on the excellence of their singing and playing, the pronunciation and excellent time he said he was particularly pleased with. After the entertainment a distribution of lollies, (kindly spplied by Father Mahoney) took place. On the previous evening the pupils presented the Very Rev. Father Mahoney with a dinner service and a carpet, the gifts beiog arcompaniad with the following address :—: — "To the Very Rev. Father Mahoney on his Feast, Jane 25, 1890.

" Very Reverend and Dear Father, — Words are insufficient to express our sentiment of joy and gladness as we assemble round you on this the eve of your festival, to wish you with filial respect and affection, a very happy feast and still brighter returns. " We profit on this occasion, dear Rev. Father, to express sincere gratitude for the great interest you take in our spirital welfare, in return for which, we pray our Divine Lord to shower upon yju in abundance the nchf st treasures of His Most Sacred Heart ; likewise to spare you for yet many years, to continue in our midst your work of zeal for His honour and glory.

"We also pray Him to prosper all your undertakings, and especialhr that grand work which you have recently begun in memory of our^ c venerated and beloved pastor, the Very Rev. Arcbpriest whose remembrance shall ever remain fresh in our memories.

" We know, dear Rev. Father, we have not always profited as well as we ought by tbe good irstruction given us, but with the help of our dear Lord, we will try to do better in ttie future, and thus become pleasing in His holy sight. In conclusion, dear Rev. Father,

we ask your paternal blessing and a little souvenir sometimes ia your fervent prayers ; also the acceptance of this little present as a small token of love and respect from those who are privileged to remain, Toui respectful and grateful. " Children of St. Maet's Schools, Nelson."

The Rev. Father thanked the givers, adding that while he was pleased with their token of affection, he was afraid such handsome presents, if oft repeated, would become a harden and tax upon them. He thanked them heartily for their present, and hoped that they would enjoy the Bhort vacation they were going to have.