THE CRUISER SQUADRON.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXIX, Issue 234, 30 September 1908, Page 5

THE CRUISER SQUADRON.

VISIT TO SAMOA. CELEBRATIONS AT APIA. FLEET COLLIERS OVERDUE. VIA PACIFIC. 'By Cable.—Press Association Copyright) (Received 1 p.m.) SUVA, this day. The United States armoured cruisers Tennessee (the flagship of Admiral Uriel Scbree, commander of "the second division of the cruiser squadron), which is now visiting the Samoan group, and her sister ship, the Washington, accompanied by two torpedo boat destroyers, arrived at Apia on Slonday week, 21st inst, and anchored in the roadstead. The visitors', who called in at German Samoa, on the invitation of the German Government, were warmly welcomed and heartily entertained by the residents. On Monday morning the Admiral and his staff visited the acting-Governor (Dr. Schultze), an dtheir visit was returned by his Excellency. In the afternoon a scries of festivities was held at Mulinutt, the natives entertaining the visitors in ancient style at a Taalolo, Taumafagata, and Siva. After this, a "beer evening" was held at the Tivoli Hotel, the Admiral and his officers being then the guests of the Governor at Louis Stevenson's old home, Vailima. •" On Tuesday a race meeting was held, followed by native feasts and dances, a ball being held in tho evening at the Central Hotel. Many presents of fruit, native manufactures, and curios were made to the officers of the fleet. Early on Wednesday morning the warships took their departure for Pago Pago, where they rejoin the other ships of the squadron. Two of the fleet colliers, the Strathyre and the Strathcona, are overdue. The squadron was timed to leave the Samoan group on Sunday last. 27th inst., and will return via Honolulu to San Francisco, where it is due on December 4th. The supply ship Solace left Suva on 24th inst in order to communicate with the fleet by wireless telegraphy. She is expected to return here to take the passengers by the Aeon, Rev. Patrick, his wife, children, and servants, and Mrs. Riddle, wife of Lieut. Riddle, to Pago Pago, where Mr. Patrick is to act as chaplain, on their arrival here by the Manuka.