PRESENTATION.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXVI, Issue 12, 22 July 1898, Page 19

PRESENTATION.

A very pleasant social evening was held at Gee's Hotel, Riversdale, on Thursday last to bid farewell to Mr. J. P. Matheson, stationmaster, on the occasion of his departure from the district. About 40 gentlemen were present. Mr. W. A. Donald, J. P., presided, and apologies were read from Messrs H. W. Waite (Goiv). E. Smith (Waikaku), Wilson Hall (Riversdale) P. J. Herlihy (Waikaia), J. N. Wood, John Mriher (Wendonside), J. A. Mills (Balfour), and others, most of whom made mention of Mr. Matheson 1 tt many good qualities. In proposing the healrh of the guest of the evening the chairman stated that Mr. Matheson was the best stationmaster they had ever had — ev< r obliging and courteous to one and all. His place would be hard to fill. He had beon requested to present Mr. Matheson on behalf of his many friends in the district with a gold •watch and chain, and a gold bangle for Mrs. Matheson. In making the presentation the chairman expressed a hope that as Mr. Matheson looked at the watch he vvould think of hia old friends on the Waiinea Plains. Mr. Matheson, who on rising was cheered to the echo, made suitable reply. The following toasts were honoured during the evening : — ' The Queen,' ■ Army, navy, and volunteers,' ' Agricultural and pastoral interests,' ' Manufacturing and commercial interests,' and ' The chairman.'