Such an extraordinary motley of goods and chattels was laid out on the floor of B shed for the inspection of prospective buyers that one could not but be struck by the amazing degree of forgetfulness that must be laid to the charge of the travelling public during the past few months.
How, for instance, one man could lose the run of an enormous tin trunk, another of a leather portmanteau or gladstone bag, another of his bicycle, and still another of a large swag which possibly held all his worldly goods was a matter for much amused surprise.
The sale drew a very large attendance of the public bent on the serious business of bargain-hunting, and long before the advertised time of starting a group of some 20 ladies established themselves on the platform in front of the door, the opening of which witnessed a vigorous rush inside the shed to appraise the most likely-looking articles before the sale began.
Their reward probably did not bear any relation to their vigilance or patience, for most of the parcels were shrouded in an impenetrable, sphinx-like mystery that prevented the slightest inkling being gained as to their contents.
• The ubiquitous sugar-bag, recognised on all sides as a convenient receptacle for every kind of package, and bundles of more or less disordered clothes bulked largely in the offering, but as is customary at such sales umbrellas formed by far the greater proportion of the articles for disposal.
These were not offered singly, but in bundles of three and four and even half-a-dozen at a time.
The annual picnic and reunion of early settlers was held at Waikouaiti yesterday in the racecourse grounds. The attendance was good, though not quite up to the standard of previous years.
The popularity of the outing was evidenced by the fact that old identities were present from all parts, taking advantage of the fact that the express trains were stopped to allow passengers to alight.
The weather was all that could be desired. An energetic committee of ladies and gentlemen carried out all matters in connection with the picnic, and saw to it that nothing was left undone that could contribute to the complete enjoyment of those present.
Young folk formed a feature of the gathering, and a great number of children's races, tugs-of-war, cock fights, etc, were held, prizes being given. Piper Ross contributed bagpipe music, and had the pleasure of playing while several of the old people gave dances.
Most of the time was spent by the old people renewing old friendships.
- ODT, 16.3.1916.
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