Newspaper Article 1899 – Patriotic Supper

The patriotic supper given by Mr Frank Moeller in the Masonic Hotel last night was attended by more than a hundred guests, and the proceedings throughout were of a most enjoyable nature. An excellent repast was provided, capital speeches were delivered, songs and recitations in rapid succession enlivened and entertained, and from first to last the prevailing tone was one of animated and enthusiastic loyalty. The Mayor (Mr G. H. Swan) presided, and to his spirited and genial manner of conducting the duties of chairman a great measure of the evening’s success was due. The toasts honored were appropriate to the occasion, and among the speakers were Major Chicken, Hon. Major Blythe, Mr H. A. Cornford, Mr F. Moeller, Mr C. B. Hoadley, and others. Songs and recitations, principally patriotic and warlike, were given by Dr P. W. Menzies and Messrs H. Morton, W. Hodgson, W. Simpson, Taylor, W. Parnell, H. Martin, H. W, Frost, T. Parker, J. H. Swan, J. B. Fielder, L Freedman, G. H. Swan, George Edwards, and others. During the evening the chairman announced that the proceeds of the supper would amount to over £36, which sum would be handed over to the More Men Fund. Mr W. M. Newbould was an admirable accompanist, and his spirited setting of “The Absent-Minded Beggar,” as sung by Mr Simpson, was greatly admired. In giving the supper Mr Moeller gave practical proof of his loyalty, and the handsome sum by which the fund has benefited will be long remembered in fitting conjunction with the recollections of a gathering which in every respect, was worthy of the […] of Napier, and of the colony.