CIVIC RECEPTION.

Press, Volume LXIV, Issue 19460, 6 November 1928, Page 10

CIVIC RECEPTION.

ENTHUSIASTIC SCENES.

(rnisas assocutioh telbobam.)

Wellington, November s.

Enthusiastic scenes were witnessed in the Concert Chamber of the Town flail to-night when Commander Byrd and party were accorded a civic reception. The Mayor (Mr G. A, Troup) said: "We want you to feel white you are with us that you are among frieiids for between youi* great country and ours there has always been the greatest goodwill and friendly feelings. (Applause.) In you, Commander Byrd, we are all especially interested—(appmuse)—for we have beeiv thrilled bv your intrepid flights to the North Pole and later across the Atlantic Ocean from America to Europe.. (Applause,) No individual in this world save yourself can be credited with having ae* complished both of these daring tasks —(applause)—and #hen you reach the Sotith Pole, as We believe and trust you will, then you will have added further laurels to. your already full life and experiences." (Applause.) Speaking on behalf of the Government, Sir Francis Bell said the race to the t Polo between Commander Byrd and Sir Hubert Wilkins was nearly equal to that between Captain Scott and Captain Amundsen. "I don't think I can fairly say I hope Commander Byrd will get there first,'" said Sir Francis Bell, amidst laughter, "but I hope the best man will get there first." (Applause.) He hoped Commander Byrd will get there first," said laurels. (Applause.) When he did return his reception would be no less hearty than if the feat had been performed by a New Zealander. (Applause.)~ v *

Cheers greeted Commander Byrd when he rose to reply. "I wish to express my very deep gratitude and appreciation for this wonderful reception and for the hospitality that New Zealand is showing to." he said* when the applause had subsided. "&r Francis gjf°fj? fl y. overour way. Sir aau£w. W # aiw ls a frieD< * <rf mine, I ?kf^ e m u m (aPPlause), ana* all the members of the expedition and my?aLT£l \° sh L him the «"*t ° f !««*. (Applause) We have told him that if ™ii« a **° the Ro6s tea area he is welcome to our landing field. (ApNew York he said he was going to one nf Z E 6l t- Scott is ? n L?J W Wood heroes, (Applause.) I read his book time and azaih. and m honour of hi a memory art -SS t S rt hackl <*<>« (applause) wJ mLPI e .L° S arr y as on our flat Lt B °? th P<»1« British Hag. (Loud applause.) The object of oar expedition u purely nientlfc."