CATHOLIC SCHOOLS.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXI, Issue 36, 5 January 1894, Page 23

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS.

NELSON. (The Colonist, December 16 )

There was a large gathering of ladies and gentlemen in the large room in the St Mary's Girls' Orphanage Building yesterday afternoon to do honour to the occasion of the annual distribution of prises. His Worship the Mayor occupied the chair, having on bis right the Very Rev Father Mahoney, the Rev Father Landouar, and on bin left Dr Duff and other prominent citizens. The large room had been most amply aud tastefully decorated for the occasion, aod facing the chairman was a banner bearing the words, " Welcome Hum* Dear Bey Father Mahoney." The proceedings opened with a very admirable programme of mnsic and recitations by the girls of tbe respective schools, every item being greatly appreciated. After those present bad been thus entertained, the Very Rev Father Mtboney alluded to hie recent absence, expressed pleasure that he was back again, and congratulated Mr Trask on having been re-elected to the position of Mayor, paying that gentleman a high compliment, and expressing the best wishes for his future welfare. The rev gentleman was also presented with a very handsome illuminated address welcoming him back to Nelson, and expressing the belt withes for his future welfare. His Worship the Mayor then spoke at some length, and in the oourie of bis remarks alluded to some of tbe recitations that had been given, drawing from these a lesson that they would do well to 11 remember.

The prizes were then distributed. After the close of tbia most pleasing ceremony most of thOM present took advantage of the opportunity to inspect the work of tba pupils which was exhibited in a separate room. Here were displayed plain and fancy work of every description, drawing, etc., as well ai exercise books, and specimen of illuminated writing. In order to give credit to each, we should practically have to mention the work of every exhibitor, for all the exhibits were particularly good. Belying, however, on the judgment of a lady who was present, and who closely examined the needlework, we can confidently say that the needlework, notably the plain sewing and the drawn thread work, were remarkably good. The whole exhibition reflected the greatest credit on the talented ladies who have the training of the pupilg at these schools. r