THE WELCOME TO THE AMERICAN FLEET.

Press, Volume LXIV, Issue 136099, 25 April 1908, Page 10

THE WELCOME TO THE AMERICAN FLEET.

(press association* telegram.)

AUCKLAND, April 24

A large and representative meeting of citizens, presided over by tho Mayor, was held this afternoon for the purposo of deciding what steps should bo taken to accord a fitting civic reception to tho American fleet.

Tho Itfayor .said that, independently of what was done by the. Government, it behoved tho citizens of Auckland to givo tho visitors a welcome worthy of tho city. On his motion a general committee, consisting of tho Mayor and tho chairmen of local bodies, together with tho members of tho City Council and tho Harbour Board: (with j>ower to add to their number), was 6«t up, with authority to organise a programme of entertainments and to appoint subcommittieee'to assist in carrying out tho details of the scheme.

It was stated that ample provision would bo mado for the entertainment of both officers and. men. A list of suggested functions was read by tho Mayor, and it was agreed that they should be referred to the committee to deal with.

Tho American. Consul-General for Now Zealand (Mr AY. l'rickctt) was present, and was accorded an enthusiastic reception on rising to express his willingness to .co-operate as far as possible in carrying out the objects of the meeting.