SAMOAN CEREMONIES

Dominion, Volume 32, Issue 256, 27 July 1939, Page 9

SAMOAN CEREMONIES

Their Excellencies’ Tour APIA, July 26. A European reception to their Excellencies Lord and Lady Galway at the Courthouse yesterday morning was well attended by all nationals resident in Samoa. The Hon. O. If. Nelson, senior elected member of the Legislative Council, presented an address to Lord Galway, who replied thanking the people for their warm reception. The visit of H.M.B. Achilles to the Tokelau Group was carried out on schedule. The vice-regal party received a very warm welcome from the natives. Shooting the reefs in canoes when landing gave the party a thrill. Fortunately there were no spills. Lady Galway enjoyed the experience immensely.

Ou their arrival in Mulinuu their Excellencies met native representatives and officials. Alipia, leader of the Fono Faipule, made a speech of welcome. In reply his Excellency included a message from the King and also referred to the late Malietoa. King’s kava was then served. The party next proceeded to the grave of Malietoa, and there met his widow and their children. His Excellency again addressed the assembly and placed a wreath on the grave. The remainder of the afternoon was taken up with native talolos and dances. A reception for Europeans on the Achilles was held at 4 p.m.