CITY IN MOURNING

Dominion, Volume 29, Issue 100, 22 January 1936, Page 16

CITY IN MOURNING

Suspension of Business at Christchurch By Telegraph—Press Association. Christchurch, January 21. The whole city went into mourning as the news of the death of the King became widely known. The Government; offices in the city closed their doors and drew the blinds. Beils lulled 70 times at minute intervals, one toll for each year of the King’s long life, and then 25 tolls, one for each year of his reign. Shops were closed throughout the city as soon as shopkeepers were advised of the wish of the municipality, and all public and private offices and some of the bigger business houses closed immediately on receipt of the news. Theatres closed promptly for the whole day and night and to-morrow. The Stock Exchange abandoned its afternoon call. Hotels closed all over the city following a request from the Licensed Victuallers’ Association. NEWS IN DUNEDIN Tolling of Town Hall Bell By Telegraph—Press Association Dunedin, January 21. \ The tolling of the Town Hail bell was the solemn announcement to Dunedin of the death of his Majesty. At intervals of one minute the bell chimed 70 ’ times, marking the length of the King's life, and after a silence of three miuuutes 25 tolls were sounded to mark the length of his reign. Although expected, the death of the beloved King was sad news for many thousands of Dunedin citizens shortly after 1 p.m., when “extras” giving the fateful announcement were posted in the city and broadcasts delivered the brief but poignant message of his passing to homes in all parts of the city and province. Flags were half-masted on ail public buildings, the Town Hail flying the New Zealand Ensign with a crepe streamer a foot above, but many private firms were slow in unfurling their flags. Most of the Government offices closed their doors for business and drew the blinds, but iu the city itself there was little outward sign of feeling for the passing of a great monarch. Business continued as usual, but at every corner and in every office the life and goodness of his Majesty were reviewed reverently. The Hillside Workshops continued work this afternoon. NELSON’S SORROW By Telegraph—Press Association. Nelson, January 21. To-day's sitting of the Executive Commission of Agriculture, which is conducting an inquiry into the New Zealand Fruit Control’Board’s marketing policy, adjourned on receipt of the news of th- King’s death. Sir Francis Frazer said the feelings towards the King were not only of loyalty but affection.

The Mayor of Nelson, Mr. G. L. Page, telegraphed the- Prime Minister expressing the city's* heartfelt sorrow and deepest expressions of loyalty.