THE VISIT OF THE NEW ZEALAND

Press, Volume XLIX, Issue 14665, 14 May 1913, Page 8

THE VISIT OF THE NEW ZEALAND

Tho citizens of Christchurch did themselves much credit yesterday by the enthusiasm with which they flocked to Lyttelton to give a welcome to the fine battleship which represents our country in the King's Navy. What must have chiefly pleased them was that Captain Halsey and his officers and men were given the best of autumn weather for their visit to our port and city. It may happen that this, their first visit to Lyttelton, may be their last, but we all wished that- they might receive a good first impression. It now remains to take care that the memories our gallant visitors carry away with them will be as pleasant as their visit -is to our people. The arrangements yesterday wore exceedingly good, and it will be a source of much satisfaction to everyone that tho berthing of the cruiser was performed so smoothly and easily. In their interest in the ship, tho public should not forget that Captain Halsey is engaged in a very difficult and exacting campaign, which keeps fully exercised those qualities of tact, resourcefulness, and enduranco which he may one day employ again, as he has employed them before, in dealing with the enemies of his country. Thero is something really very delight-

fill, and not a little astonishing, in the pluck and the skill with which ho discharges the ceremonial duties from which he cannot escape. His little speech at the. civic reception yesterday w*as as fresh and stimulating as if it had been his first public utterance since he left England. Devotion to tho Navy is so soundly rooted in tho heart of the New Zealand public that it is almost liko "hoaring a novelty to hear Captain Halsey expressing his pleasure that in this matter there is no division of opinion in New Zealand. It is unnecessary to Eay that it is with sincere admiration and pleasure that the peoplo of Canterbury are availing themselves of all tho possible opportunities to do honour to the officers and men of the battleship, and, through them, to tho flag of Great Britain on the waters.