RETURNED LEADERS.

Auckland Star, Volume L, Issue 187, 8 August 1919, Page 2

RETURNED LEADERS.

WEULUfGTOJTS WELCOME. A CORDIAL GREETING. (By Telegraph-Special to "Star.") WELLINGTON", this day. Wellington's public reception to the National Government leaders was thoroughly good, without a sign to the contrary. The large Town Hall was crowded with an audience which gave [the leaders a cordial reception when, accompanied by other members of the Ministry, they appeared on the platform. The Mayor, Mr. J. P. Luke, declared that .New Zealand would acclaim the leaders' work in Europe as honourable, creditable and effective, bringing goodwill to the Dominion. The country also appreciated the services of Sir Jas. Allen and the Hon. W. D. S. McDonald, as acting leaders during Mr. Alaaaey'a and Sir Joseph Ward's absence. Sir Jas. Allen and Mr. Mac Donald welcomed the leaders on behalf of the Government. Mr. Maasey's reception was cordial. Acknowledging this he referred to the Auckland Town Hall reception report* as very fair except for one point, that regarding the reception by the crowd. The huge hall was crammed to overflowing, the audience being moet enthusiastic, with the exception of two or three dozen individuals <who took possession of one corner of the gallery. "The meeting," he said, "was fifty to one in our favour." Auckland, like Wellington, had given a good welcome to them.