Ashburton

New Zealand Tablet, 11 December 1913, Page 27

Ashburton

(From our own correspondent.)

At the examination of sixth standard pupils of the convent school by Mr. Brock, Chief Inspector of the North Canterbury Education Board, out of thirteen presented, nine secured proficiency and four obtained competency certificates.

Widespread regret was expressed in Ashburton when the sad news became known that Mrs. James Small, of this town, and widow of the late Mr. James Small, had died suddenly in Christchurch. The interment took place at Ashburton on Monday last, Rev. Father O’Donnell officiating at the graveside. A young family is left to mourn the loss of a kindly and much respected mother. —R.l.P.

On Thursday evening, December 4, the members of the local choir and their friends assembled in the boys’ schoolroom for the purpose of making a presentation to the conductor, Mr. M. J. Burgess, in recognition of his valuable services to the choir. The first part of the evening’s entertainment took the form of progressive euchre for prizes, which were won by Mr. R. McDonnell and Mrs. McSherry. Rev. Father O’Donnell, in presenting the guest of the evening with a gold watch, suitably inscribed, referred in eulogistic terms to Mr. Burgess’ services to the choir, extending over a period of twenty years, and also to its efficiency under his leadership. Complimentary references to Mr. Burgess were also made by Messrs. T. M. Brophy, W. J. Cunningham, T. Purcell, F. J. Holley, and V. Madden. Mr. Burgess feelingly acknowledged the gift. A musical programme was then proceeded with, consisting of a quartet, * Sweet and low,’ by Messrs. M. J. Burgess, W. J. Cunningham, Miss A. McDonnell, and Miss Adelaide Bruce; a trio, ‘ A little farm well tilled,’ by Messrs. M. J. Burgess, T. Purcell, and W. J. Cunningham and songs by Mrs. Frank Hanrahan, Miss Adelaide Bruce, Messrs. D. McDonald, M. J. Burgess, and V. Madden. Supper, which was provided by the ladies, was then partaken of, and a very pleasing function was brought to a close by the singing of ‘ Auld lang syne.’