Glenboy Soiree. – The annual soiree in connection with the Glenboy Loyal Orange Lodge, came off in the house of Mr Alick Davis on Wednesday, February 21st. The attendance was larger that on any former occasion, and the proceedings throughout were of the most enjoyable and profitable nature. Punctually at seven o’clock, pm., tea and cake were served round by Mr Robert Johnston, Mr John Jas. Acheson. Mr Davis, Mr Clarke and Mr Gault. Tea being over, the chair was taken on the motion of Mr Joshua Robinson, by the Rev Isaac Coulter, DD. Rector of the parish. A most interesting programme was then gone through, consisting of readings and recitations by Dr David Robinson, Mr Jack Stephenson, Mr John Field, Mr William Golden, Mr John J Acheson, Mr Thomas Cambell, Mr John Hamilton, Mr Robert Johnston, Mr John James Davis and Mr Robert Hudie. AT the close of the programme the Rev Dr Coulter spoke for a full hour, during which he was frequently applauded buy the crowded and enthusiastic audience. The rev gentleman gave some homely and practical advice, inculcating charity towards all who differed from them, while at the same time determined to stand firmly by their own principles both in politics and religion. He said that just as among farmers, doctors, patrons and lawyers there were generally found “good, bad and indifferent” even so amongst Orangemen, there were probably the same three classes but as no one would think of doing away with the farmer, doctor, lawyer or parson, because of the “Bad and indifferent” element amongst these, so Orangeism should be judged by its good members and not by its “bad and indifferent.” Dr Coulter proceeded to show the evils that would follow if Home Rule were granted to Ireland, and at the same time pointed out that if the Unionists should come into office at the next general election their policy must not be a mere negative one as regards this country, but should be a generous one of starting and encouraging home industries, and improving generally and permanently the condition of the honest and struggling peasantry of every creed in out beloved native land. In conclusion the rev doctor gave a graphic description of the sad death of Major Wilson and his small but brave company of soldiers who lost their lives in Africa. He showed how there men were loyal, brave, well disciplined, and fought as true British warriors, but had to yield to their sad fate at last from their want of ammunition. While “put your trust in God, my boys” was a good motto, we should also see that we have gold as the ammunition with which to fight our political battles.
On the motion of Mr Joshua Robinson seconded by Mr JJ Acheson, a hearty and unanimous vote of thanks was passed to the Rev Dr Coulter. On the motion of Mr Robert Johnson, seconded by Mr James Thompson, a warm and enthusiastic vote of thanks was passed to Mr and Mrs Davis for all their kindness and trouble of throwing open their house for the annual soiree. Hearty cheers were given for all the office-bearers of the Lodge, after which “God Save the Queen” was sung and the meeting concluded with prayer.
Source: Quincey Dougan, History Consultant, Bygone Days Consulting, “Research & Presentation” Tel: +44 (0) 78 356 24221, +44 (0) 28 3755 1690. Publication unconfirmed.
The Curlew's Call 