MR HALL-JONES IN TARANAKI.

Daily Telegraph (Napier), Issue 9938, 8 December 1900, Page 8

MR HALL-JONES IN TARANAKI.

Banquet at Stratford.

[PEB PRESS ASSOCIATION.]

Stratfokd, Thi&i&iy

The Hon, Mr Hall-Jones returned from Whangamomona last night, and whs entertained at a banquet in the County Hotel. A large number of representative residents were present. The Mayor presided. The evening was a most enjoyable one, bhe Minister receiving a Jiearty welcome. Replying to the toast of fris health the Minister said his chief, the Premier-, could not have been given a more handsome reception. The Premier had taken alarge share in the formation of thescheme of "light railways. He was struck with the marked improvement in the district, the buildings, electric light, the proposed water supply, etc., and gave credit to the member for the district for the work he had done. Referring to Federation he said he looked for a greater Federation than with Australia—that was of the English spesuking races. He and his colleagues wished to kelp settlers, but the settlers must also help themselves ; where they saw t<be •settlers were ready to help, it was the duty of the State bo do what they could in the way of relief. There was a difficulty about the route of railway. Thfy could make a 2 feet, 2 feet 6 inch, or 3 feet guage. They wanted a little more information, when the survey was commenced. The first sod would be turned in three months. The Miuister spoke at considerable length, and waa warmly applauded. Mr Symes and Mr Smibh, M's.F.R., were also present. The health of the Premier was drunk, and w»rmly responded to by Mr HallJones. The Minister is to-day receiving deputations. He lays the foundation stone of the Presbyterian Church this afternoon.