VALEDICTORY TEA MEETING.

Manawatu Times, Volume III, Issue 36, 13 February 1878, Page 2

VALEDICTORY TEA MEETING.

A valedictory tea meeting to the Rev. R. McGregor, of Feilding, took place in the School-room, Feilding, on Thursday evening last. The weather, which is always an important matter in connection with such social gatherings, was in this instance all that could be desired. At six o'clock tea was on the tables, and the company seated themselves and partook of what might safely be termed a first-rate spread. The ladies presiding were — Mesdames Loudon, Bray, Haybittle, Thompson, Lainey, and Aiken. After the wants of each visitor had been amply supplied, and the tables cleared away, the chair was taken by D. H. Macarthur Esq., who most ably carried out the programme of the evening. The 349th hymn was sung by the choir, Mrs Loudon presiding at the harmonium. The Rev. Mr Simmonds, Wesleyan minister of Sandon, engaged in prayer, after which the choir chanted the 46th Psalm. The Chairman briefly stated the object of the meeting, and said that he, with a large number of the inhabitants of Feilding, really regretted the proposed departure of Mr McGregor from the district. He looked upon the event as a public loss, and felt confident that it would be a long time before the name of McGregor was forgotten by the many friends who had assembled on this occasion to bid him farewell. He referred in feeling terms to his great usefulness during the three years he had laboured amongst them, and he hoped that wherever his lot might be cast it would be his fortune to be held in the same high estimation as that in which he was now held in Feilding. The Rev Mr Ross, Presbyterian Minister of Turakina, remarked that he only wished to say a few words in order to shew that his sympathy was with Mr McGregor on this important occasion. He happened to be in Masterton on a visit when the news reached him to the effect, that it was contemplated to entertain Mr McGregor, previous to his departure. He at once hastened his journey to Feilding, in order to witness the interesting event. He had strong feelings of regret at parting from one, with whom he had been most intimately acquainted for the past eleven years. He could testify to the good work and indomitable perseverance of the guest of the evening, and felt that this district was losing a good and useful pastor. At the same time he felt confident that a corresponding advantage would be gained by some other district, which would be fortunate enough to have the service of him they were now parting with. The Rev gentleman likened Mr McGregor to the Husbandman mentioned in the Scripttures, who went forth to sow the good seed and returned rejoicing. He felt sure that a good work had been carried on by him since his introduction to the district, and was sure that a large circle of friends regretted his leaving The speaker went on to say that he knew Mr McGregor had chosen Feilding as his sphere of labour, in preference to many other places which would have been pleased to receive him at the time. He was sure that their Pastor's heart was truly and sincerely in his work, as he had conquered many difficulties and overcome many discouragements. He knew that in future days Mr McGregor would oftimes look back to the days spent by him in Feilding, and remember with feelings, of the most pleasing description incidents connected with this most satisfactory and enthusiastic meeting, and would in due time reap the fruits of what he had so diligently sown. The Rev. Mr Simmonds said he had fondly hoped that his place would have been found much lower on the programme than it appeared to be. If such had been the case, he would have had the advantage of being able to pull the speeches of previous speakers to pieces in order to make one for himself.

He quite agreed with all the remarks made by the previous speakers which had reference to the usefulness of Mr McGregor and the gain to the district securing his future services. He was sure that it would be a difficult matter to find a man more suited to the reiquirements of this district than was Mr McGregor. The speaker informed the meeting that this change arose from a desire on the part of Mr McGregor to carry out a scheme of future usefulness, and not from any desire on his part to break the strong bonds of friendship which existed between him and his congregation. He could not see any reason why he might not come back again. Distance nowadays was nothing and people scattered about a colony were in one sense a family. Mr McGregor belonged to that family, and was one of its noble members , not because he was a Rev but wholly through his unfailing efforts, which had raised him to his present position in the church, and in the hearts of his people. He would take the opportunity of pointing the young men of the district to what might be done by perseverance, and by continuance in a steady effort to achieve some particular end. The speaker went on to show that a noble career awaited many in a commercial line, and that a great measure of success might attend them, but their occupation was not more noble than that of the young men, who went into the Ministry, and often made great sacrifices in order to get there, and had for a long time to struggle throught difficulties and any amount of hard brain work before they became successful students. Such had been Mr McGregor's experience and the result was evident by this meeting. He was sure that whatever measure of prosperity awaited Mr McGregor, he would always be found anxious for the future moral advancement of Feilding. He remarked that many hard things had been said against the inhabitants of Feilding in times past, but after carefully examining the statements he had come to the conclusion that the people would bear a comparison with the inhabitants of other townships in the district. He attributed their present improved state in a large degree, to the untiring efforts of Mr McGregor, during his sojourn amongst them. He strongly advised the people to presist in social and moral improvements which would in the end prove the means of placing them far ahead of such communities, as wilfully neglected such measures. Choir sung the 4th Hymn. The Rev. Mr Douall, Presbyterian minister from Bulls, said he hoped that the audience would not expect a long speech from him, as he was not fit to say much, owing to a bad cold, which had greatly interfered with his voice. He might justly have refrained from coming to the meeting at all, but he felt that he could not resist the temptation to be present on such an important occasion as this. He with the other speakers regretted the circumstances which now brought them together, more especially when he considered that he had been intimately connected with Mr McGregor's appointment to this district. He had first, applied for his services for the district, well knowing the necessity that existed. He was proud to say that the appointment had proved a success, and that Mr McGregor had done his duty to the people, and while doing so, had been forced to expend a very large amount of mental and bodily energy. He felt convinced that those labours would bring forth good fruit, and would be found to tell on the future of the place. The speaker thought it was well to ask how the numerous hearers had used the good opportunities put in their way and the advice given by him who was now about to go away. He thought it a very strange event that four of the ministers now present should be leaving this district at the same time. He was sorry that such should be the case, as he had been intimately acquainted with them, and a co-worker in many matters which had for their object the common good of the district. He looked upon such changes as the work of a higher power, and believed they were all over ruled for our good. He felt that the good work commenced in this district by the ministers present would not be lost, although, they were leaving us but that it would be carried on by their successors. The choir sang hymn 500. The Rev. Mr Hammond, Wesleyan minister from Palmerston, said he would like it to be understood that he was greatly pleased to find Mr Macarthur in the chair, and must admit that he carried out the duties of his office in a first-rate, manner. While listening to his reading the hymns, the thought struck him that he might pass for a local preacher almost anywhere. (Applause). The speaker was always pleased to get aplause, but thought we had no time for it to-night. He was pleased also because the chairman represented the Feilding Corporation, at this meeting, and his presence said distinctly that that important body acknowledged the worth of Mr McGregor. He felt that he was m much the same position as Mr McGregor with reference to saying good bye to the district in which he had first laboured as a minister. Sometimes he felt sorry at the thought of leaving, at other times he felt glad, and was inclined to look upon the whole arrangement as for the best, and in Mr McGregor's case, he believed it would be for both him and the district, as he would be shown that Providence would provide for all their wants, and they would see that they had lost one who had worked faithfully for them, both publicly and privately. He was inclined to think that all such changes were over-ruled for good, and firmly believed in them, as they gave both preachers and congregations an opportunity of hearing new men and seeing new faces and places. All this was very pleasant, and in most instances acceptable to both interested parties. The denomination to which he belonged differed from most in general management, as it was customary to change ministers every three years. He was not going to say that he believed in changing to that extent, and was glad to see an effort made by the Wesleyan Conference to extend the term of residence to five years. He was glad to have made the acquaintance of Mr McGregor. He had known him for a

long time as a gentleman and a minister of the Gospel, and esteemed him as a brother and fellow-laborer for Christ. He was pleased to see so much sympathy for Mr McGregor, but thought that he and brother Jones deserved more, considering that they were both single men and without the comforts of a home, — a hardship unknown to Mr McGregor, who was truly blessed in the possession of one of the best of wires and helpmates, and one who had cheered him along through many difficulties, and had greatly smoothed his journey since he came into this district. He sometimes thought that Mrs McGregor would be missed almost as much as her husband, as she had always done all that lay in her power to assist and cheer those who needed her advice and assistance. He had received innumerable kindnesses at her hands, and would ever retain the kindest feelings towards her and her family. He urged the necessity of profiting by the example set before them, by those who were now leaving them perhaps for ever. He trusted that they would one day be in possession of those Heavenly gifts for which Mr McGregor had so diligently labored and cling to them as the most precious inheritance. He hoped they would continue to go on seeking after that which was good, and persevere unto the end. Wherever he was stationed in the future, he would look back to this district as his first love, and he felt Mr McGregor would do the same, as they had both, commenced the work of preachers in the Manawatu, where they had congregations under their care for the first time. He was sure that the first congregation must always appear as the dearest to any minister. Such was his experience, and that feeling would always cause a great anxiety for the future welfare of this district, and the future prosperity of Mr McGregor. He felt that the greatest consolation to their pastor in time to come would be the knowledge that their prayers were ascending on his behalf. Mr Jones, Primitive- Methodist Minister of Feilding, said he must confess that on this occasion he felt as if he could shed a tear, and had a good, mind to do so, and if he did, he would not be shewing a greater weakness than much greater men had done in times past, and instanced the Apostle Paul. He quite agreed with the remarks made by the previous speakers touching the usefulness of Mr McGregor and the loss the district was sustaining by his removal. He was well aware of the high estimation in which Mr McGregor was held throughout the district, and felt that their prayers would follow him wherever his lot might be cast. He could not see any reason why he should not come back again to them when be had finished his studies elsewhere. If such should be the case he felt that the meeting would be a joyous one. He urged the people, to be mindful of the kind advice given them from time to time and not allow themselves to be overtaken with forgetfulness. He was sorry at parting with Mr McGregor, as he had always received the greatest kindness and consideration at his hands, besides the assistance rendered to the Temperance cause in Feilding, of which he had from its infancy been a most active member. He felt that his example was worthy of being followed by all who had a desire to attain to something good and noble. He said that it was not always safe to be found praising other men's wives, and that it was a privilege exclusively belonging to single men ; as one of that persuasion (unfortunately) he would take the opportunity of praising Mrs. McGregor, without feeling afraid of the consequences. He knew that she had greatly assisted her husband in everything tending to benefit those around them, and that her absence from Feilding would be felt for a very long time. The speaker reviewed the Temperance cause in Feilding, and hoped that it would go on and greatly increase in numbers, and usefulness, and in the end, prove a blessing to all those who embraced it ; and whilst they were iin the enjoyment of the blessings springing from a life of Temperance, they would look back to Mr McGregor as the founder of the society in Feilding. The object of all this was the improvement of our fellowmen while here below, and a hope that by such improvement their desires would be elevated, and in the end they would be brought to look from passing events here to higher things above, which should be our main object in this life. The Choir sang 295th hymn. The Rev R. McGregor arose, admidst applause. He felt that it would be entirely out of place for him to say much after what the audience had listened to from the previous speakers. Still, he hoped that it would not seem strange if he told them he had something to say. He would begin by saying that he could not find expressions suitable to his feelings on the present occasion. All this great affair had been arranged by friends without in the least consulting him. Before parting with them he had an explanation to make in connection with what he looked upon as a future duty. His only reason for leaving was a desire on his part to fit himself for the ministry. This could only be done by going where he could have every opportunity and facility for study. While doing so he was, perhaps, not following the dictates of his own mind, as this step would necessitate many self-sacrifices. Still, as a servant of Christ, he felt he was bound to do as he was now doing. He was not leaving the district through any misunderstanding with anyone,—far from it. Wherever he had gone it had been his fortune to meet with the greatest possible kindness in every respect. Some might think he was. leaving because the pecuniary arrangements were not satisfactory. Such was .not the case. Those arrangements werein a healthy state, and ample provision had been made hitherto to meet all demands Others might think that he was afraid of non-success in the future. His answer was, No ; and he thought it might be borne out by pointing to the meeting that night. The Presbytery would lose no time in sending someone to labor there, who would carry on the work he had begun. It gave him pleasure to say that that body had shewn great indulgence to him during the time he had been in the ministry, as they had done all in their power to assist him

in his studies. Wherever his lot might be cast he need hardly say that his mind will often revert to Feilding, and that he would always feel a deep interest in her prosperity. He trusted that his efforts to do good there would not be lost, and that the congregation would do all they could to carry on the work until his successor arrived. He felt that he had much to say and scarcely knew how to begin, or when to leave off. His greatest desire was that the lessons he had tried to teach them would not be forgotten, and trusted that they would bring forth fruit to all eternity. he sincerely thanked them all for the mark of respect and kindness they had shown towards himself and his family. Mr Bruce, from Palmerston, remarked that he had been deputed to perform a very pleasing ceremony, viz., presenting a purse to Mr McGregor. This affair had been got up in a very curious and simple manner. About a week ago, his friend, Mr R. Loudon, of Feilding, surprised him by making his appearance at his (Mr Bruce' s) house, for the purpose, as he said, of doing something for Mr McGregor before leaving the district. It was accordingly arranged that subscriptions should be solicited from friends, and the amount publicly presented to him. Turning to Mr McGregor, he said : SIR,—I have a pleasing duty to perform to-night. It consists in the presentation of a purse to you, containing £34. I admit the sum is small, and must request that you will not measure our affections by the amount contained in this small purse. It is useless for me to repeat that we all acknowledge your worth and good qualities, and that we are truly sorry at the thought of losing you. Wherever you may go you may always rely upon our best wishes for your prosperity and happiness. May you enjoy long life and all the blessings which should attend it. Mr McGregor replied,—Ladies and Gentlemen;— l wish you to understand that this affair has been arranged without my knowledge. It was only to-day I heard of it. I accept your gift in the same spirit you give it, viz., as a token of your love and esteem. I value it as an expression of every kind feeling, put forth, as it were, at the eleventh hour. Mr Bruce moved a vote of thanks to the ladies for the good tea provided by them . He could speak from experience regarding the quality of everything as he had done ample justice to all the good things set before !him. He said that in some mysterious way the name of Mr Duncan McGregor had got mixed up in this vote of thanks. He failed to see why, and must ask that gentleman to speak for himself. Mr D. McGregor said that he could not tell how he was mixed up in the vote of thanks, as he was a stranger amongst the friends there that night. At the same time he would avail himself of the opportunity placed in his way to thank the ladies for their kind reception. He was forced to admit that this tea meeting was superior to any he had attended for a long time, and thought that the Feilding ladies must have a peculiar gift in that direction, as all the articles provided were of a very superior quality. This statement, he thought, could besubstantiated by the fact that a very large quantity had disappeared in a very short space of time. The speaker could have wished that some young man known to the ladies should have had the honor of seconding the vote of thanks instead of himself. A parting hymn was sung, and a vote of thanks to the Chairman carried amidst applause. The Benediction was pronounced, and the business of one of the most interesting of meetings ever held in Feilding, terminated. Proceeds of meeting, £10: expenses, £6 ; balance, £4, to be handed over to the Presbyterian Sunday School.