THE LIBERAL LEADER.

Auckland Star, Volume XLIV, Issue 178, 28 July 1913, Page 5

THE LIBERAL LEADER.

WAITING FOR SIR JOSEPH. A WAiRM WELCOME. (By Telegraph.—Parliamentary Reporter.) WELLLNGTON, this day. The arrival of Sir Joseph Ward is being eagerly anticipated by the Liberals of the House, the general opinion being that, with the appearance on the scene of the party's recognised head, matters generally will be consolidated. Up to the present time 6ome very good destructive criticism has been levelled at the Reformers, though sharp-shooting and independent lance-breaking have been most notable features of the clashes. Such guerilla warfare may be effective for individual purposes, and on 1 occasions an exceeding irritant to the Treasury benches, but a good deal more is required for the purposes of convincing the country of the existence of a cohesive and definite party having a fixed purpose and a resolute identity. It is readily agreed that Sir Joseph Ward is the man to stiffen the party into a solid fighting phalanx responsive to the requirements of generalship. Liberals are fairly confident that their old chief will accept the honour of leading them once more in the fray, and his advent is a matter of joy and general "bucking up" among Oppositionists, with whom it is clear his man* is stronger than ever. Meanwhile, there is a sense of common satisfaction among left benchers at the vim and effect of the preliminary sorties in their chiefs absence, many a palpable hit having been registered against the defenders of the Government fort. Several Liberals will journey up to Auckland to meet Sir Joseph on his return next Friday. THE AUCKLAND RECEPTION. Sir Joseph Ward, who is returning to New Zealand by the Vancouver mail steamer Niagara, will arrive at Auckland on Friday next. He will be met on board the vessel by representatives of the -Literal and Labour Federation, and other leading citizens, and will be given a hearty welcome home. He does not leave for Wellington till Sunday night, and on arrival at the capital the next afternoon, he will be met at the station by the special reception committee. Speeches of welcome will he delivered, and he will then be escorted to the Royal Oak Hotel. The Mayor will preside at a public welcome at the Town Hall in the evening, and at the close Sir Joseph Ward will be escorted to the House ot Parliament.