The Press., 1883-09-06
MANSFIELD.
A FAMILY REUNION.

A FAMILY REUNION.
 The second annual gathering of the Presbrey family met at the home of Wales Preshrey of Mansfield Depot, Aug. 31st, to the number of AT, and down to the 4th generation. Relatives and friends were present from New Haven, Birmingham, Rockville, Manchester, Stafford Springs, and South Coventry, Conn.,, also from Northampton, Mass. And there also was Rev. A. A. Presbrey and wife from Florida, who was the originator of these annual gatherings to be held as long as the parents may live, which, judging from appear ances, may be for many years to come. For the erect form, the elastic step, the clear mind, and the happy spirit, as we'll as glowing heart and face of Father Pres brey, also that of his dear wife, who are filed with the love of God, indicate at least that this may be the case, although 83 years have passed over the head of this venerable servant of God. It was a cor dial greeting each received from the hearts and hands of this highly honored and dear ly beloved couple As the writer and his wife drove in sight of the quiet little cot tage of father and mother Presbrey, our eyes were greeted with the beautiful and expansive lawn that spread about their residence, upon which was an extensive awning of canvass, erected by Rev. A. A. Presbrey, and finely decorated on each corner, and in front with the beautiful pampas grass that grows in Florida, re- sembling large cream white plumes, pro- ducing pleasing effect. Under the can vass was long table heavily laden with provisions, fruits, confectioneries, &c Among the attractions thereon was beau tiful pyramid of confectionery, on one side of which was 8 five dollar gold piece, neat ly set in choice piece of candy, of which the pyramid was composed. This was ar- ranged by one of Rockville's confectioners, and presented by D. s. Presbrey and fam ily of Rockville. Another ornament was a derrick of candy, under which was fine loaf of cake, presented by Philo Presbrey and wife; also nice roll of greenbacks were dropped into basket sitting on the table. At about 3 o'clock we were seated about the table by Albert O. Eaton, a grandson from Stafford Springs. The ta- ble was made beautiful by profusion of flowers, and exceedingly tempting to the group surrounding it from the great varie- | ty of palatable food provided.
 But hold-not quite ready yet to eat, for few prellninaries must be observed :: Firyt was reoitation by Mrs, F. Presbrey of Rockville, entitled Family Meeting," which was finely rendered. It first stated 'We are all here, father, mother, brother, sister," &c. "And yet we are not all here, v for some of the family were absent because of uncontrolled circumstances, or distance, as in the case of her who was Amanda Eat on, at present in Florida for the benefit of her husbands health. Also others were not there, for already they have passed the crystal river, and are waiting the grand reunion on. the evergreen shore,
 Where all the ships company in harmony Transported their Saviour and brethren to
 greet"
 And yet it was decided that if all were not there in body they were all there in spirit. Next came the report Of the secretary, D. s. Presbrey, of Rockville, which was given in 8 very touching and yet unassuming manner. And all hearts were moved as he stated that we had not only met for fam fly reunion but to celebrate the 46th spir- itual birthday of A. A. Presbrey, who was happily converted to God just 46 years ago that very day, who, after the long years of christian warfare, seemed in spirit like young convert of few months only giving us an evidence that real godliness keeps its possessor young, spiritually mentally and physically. This was follow. ed by the choice of the following officers for the year ensuing: l.. C. Presbrey president; Philo Presbrey, vice-president and D. s. Presbrey secretary Next sing ing, "Praise God from whom all blessings fow," then the invocation by w. w. Ellis and finally the dinner. And O. such g dinner Well, you should have been pres ent in order to appreciate it. Dinner over came returning of thanks by the aged grand sire. This was followed by the song, "We'n all gather home in the morn ing, " &c., voluntary speeches and singing from the aged grand parents of 80 down to the tiny little girl of four or five summers who was claimed by brother Fred of Rock vile. Those were fine speeches and songs by the little folks. guess some of the older ones were little proud of them, al I least slightly interested in them, judging from the looks of faces present. Of course those of all ages present joined in the beautiful songs, such as "Old Near, , ''Rock of Ages, Y" ''Shall we meet beyond the river?" "Angels now are calling," and many others. Then from the old family Bible, the dear, blessed Bible, that lay or the stand, Alfred read the last chapter o Job, and then offered the closing prayer Then the doxology was once more sung in the spirit, after which came the benedic tion by W. W. Ellis, and the last hand shaking and tender good bye's, as family after family started off on their homewarc bound journey. Thus passed one of the most enjoyable occasions of our life.