INTENSE ENTHUSIASM DISPLAYED IN LONDON.

Auckland Star, Volume L, Issue 154, 30 June 1919, Page 5

INTENSE ENTHUSIASM DISPLAYED IN LONDON.

TREMENDOUS OVATION TO KING AND QUEEN. T.ONnfW. .Time 20. When the city bells clashed out announcing the signing at 3.40 p.m. to-day, London stood still for a few seconds with tremendous tension. It was easily surmised what the bells meant for those who had contributed to the triumph of right over might. Peace had come, and the sacrifices made by the dead were perhaps realised for the first time. There was a tinge of sadness in the welcome news, and London did not forget in its joy the memory of those who had fallen for the freedom of the world. Groups met in the streets exchanging mutual congratulations. The news was quickly communicated to the theatres and cinemas, where it was flashed on the screens, the audiences spontaneously rising and fervently singing the National Anthem. Great enthusiasm was displayed everywhere. Peace dinners have been arranged for to-night at the various leading hotels. General Smuts signed the treaty under protest, objecting to oertain territorial settlements. He also argued for a reduction of the indemnities owing to the impaired industrial conditions of Europe. The German President, Herr Ebert, in a proclamation, practically advises the giving up of the Germans demanded under the treaty. Mr. Lloyd George addresses the House of Commons in regard to the Peace Treaty on Tuesday next.—(A. and N.Z. Cable .) The chief incident in London, following receipt of the news of the signing of the treaty, was the rush of immense crowds to Buckingham Palace, demanding to see the King and Queen. The appearance of King George, Queen Mary, and the Royal Family was greeted with prolonged cheering. It was a thrilling display of most affectionate enthusiasm. — (United Service.)