THE ROYAL VISIT. ENTRY INTO WELLINGTON.

Evening Post, Volume LXI, Issue 142, 18 June 1901, Page 5

THE ROYAL VISIT. ENTRY INTO WELLINGTON.

LANDING OP THE ROYAL PARTY , AT QUEEN'S WHARF. PROCESSION THROUGH THE CITY. LOYAL DEMONSTRATIONS IN THE STREETS. Scarce had darkness fallen; upon the city last evening when the thunderous detonations of three bombs sent up from the General Post Office awoke the echoes in the surrounding hills, and spread the news that the Heir- Apparent to the Throne of Great Britain, and. our future Queen, had arrived within the harbour entrance. It was not altogether a surprise, and the city was not caught unprepared. Earlier in the afternoon the news had been flashed along the wires that the Royal Squadron had passed Castlepointj before midday, and it was expected that it would put in an appearance off the Heads about half-past 6in the evening. But good steaming time was made down the coast, and the signal \tais given at ten minutes' to 6 o'clock. The noise of the.exploding bombs was followed by the pealing of the bells in the clock-tower of the Post Office and in other parts of the city* and presently the public buildings, blazed out a welcome in a myriad lamps of the glorious old red, white, and blue. The weather, drear and stormy as it had been all day, was gradually clearing about this hour, but the brilliant lights threw a reflection high into the heavens, and created fantastio figures of the flying scud of the passing storm. The effect was heightened by vivid flashes of lightning from some storm-cloud away in the vacant waste of the darkening night. Out in the' harbour the twinkling lights of the warships at anchor cast weird streaks on the inky black water. \tyhat was happening aboard could not be distinguished in the gloom, but after a while the lights of the Royal yacht came into view round Point Halswell, rode steadily nearer the city, now alive with its accumulated thousands of people,' and finally drew up amid the formidable guard of naval monitors which rode the waters of Port Nicholson. At last the game was afoot; the supreme moment to which the city tad been looking forward through all the weeks- of preparation was near at hand ; and inhabitants and visitors looked forward with renewed interest to the celebrations which the morrow was to bring. DINNER ON THE OPHIR. His Royal Highness the Duke of Cornwall and York gave a dinner aboard H.M.S. Ophir yesterday evening, at which his Excellency the Governor and' the officers of the warships in port were present. THE WEATHER. The odds appeared to be that the storm that cast such a dismal shadow over the city the whole of yesterday had worked itself out' when night fell last evening. The drifting clouds broke asunder and chased away to the southern horizon, and the stars began to peep through. By 9 o'clock, the "wind hadgone to rest for the night, and a perfect autumn night presented itself. It was hoped then that the colony's weather prophet, Captain Edwin, was right — we should have a Royal day, In which to should have a fair day, though possibly the sun might not shine, in which to welcome Royalty. So the city went to bed. But in the small hours of the morning the wind awoke again, and brought along with it more bad weather from the north-west, and heavy showers were falling at daybreak. /Anticipations, that £he night before had ; risen \ so high, went .down to zero. THE ROYAL SQUADRON. With the break of day, the Royal yacht could- be dimly seen through the misty rain, lying at anchor in the stream, while around her, as though to guard her rest, were the black hulls of his Majesty's ships of war, the Royal escort. On the shoreward side of the group lay ' the flagship Royal ArthuV, grim-set and watchful. Next came 1 a line of three cruisers of the Australian Squadron, the Mildura to the northward, the Wallaroo in- the centre, and the Ringarooma close in to the leeward shore. Then, midway 'twixt south and north, lay the ship for the sake of whose illustrious passengers is all this great stir. Further down towards Point Halswell, as the grey of early morning merged slowly into brighter day, could be seen the St. George, the guardian of the portal to our harbour. Over all, the twinkling masthead lights glowed fainter and fainter as the daylight * grew in strength. A scene of rest — and yet suggestive of the tense nerves, watchful eyes, and unslacking vigilance of those on board that drowsy-looking group of ships. Then, in a moment, as though at the wave of some fairy wand, the scene was eclipsed. For a time, not a ship could be seen through the thick grey veil of rain and mist which on a sudden descended.. It passed, nowever, . and soon after sunrise glimpses of blue sky- could be seen. There was no more rain to spoil the morning's proceedings, and though for the most part ominous and threatening occasionally, the sun broke through and cast fitful gleams upon the maze of life and ' colour that prevailed in the city. So on the whole, Captain Edwin was vindicated. BERTHING THE OPHIR. By 9 o'clock the Queen's Wharf was in readiness for the reception of the Royal yacht — the Venetian masts, gay with their red, white, and blue stripes, their flame topped crests, and strings of vari-coloured bunting {drying rapidly in the breeze, the " crane arches " bedecked with flags, and what ships i there were also arrayed in festal garb, lent to the usually busy, hurrying highway an air of joyful holiday. In the centre of the outer tee, the newly-constructed Royal 'gangway, ppiuted white and carpeted with some soft crimson material, was placed in readiness, while on the wharf itself w.as a square of the same material, upon which the Royal pair would descend to erter their carriage. A guard of twelve foot and four mounted permanent artillery men waited near the berth to .form tfce luggage guard. About 9.30, the St. George slipped her moorings, and steamed slowly round to the south flank of the anchored squadron. A moment later, and the Ophir could be seen moving slowly astern. This was the signal, and from each warship guns boomed out for a Royal salute. The ferry steamer Duchess, the only vessel sent from the shore, took up a position behind the Royal yacht as she swung round in the fairway and steamed slowly round Oriental Bay, ' looking stately and majestic with her clean white sides and rakish masts. At the fore floated the flag of the Royal yacht squadron, and at the main the Royal Standard. The' marine proceedings, as if or as local ships are concerned, would have been much more impressive, no doubt, had not the arrival jn, harbour of the Ophir last night robbed the occasion of some of its interest. The Harbour Board's launch Utn, in chared of Pilot Shilling, ran out to meet the" Ophir as she neared the wharf, and take her lines

ashore, while all round about launches and cutters from « the warships darted hither and thither, each on some busy errand. Before the Ophir was far from her anchorage, the Juno, which it is said had stood sentinel at the Heads all night, rounded the Point and joined the group in tha stream. On reaching the wharf, the officer of the bridge declined to bring the Ophir to the central position prepared for her, under the. mistaken idea, that there was no provision for twin-screw vessels. "We take no risks," he said. The Ophir was accordingly taken to the south end of the outer tee, her stern projecting beyond the wharf. This necessitated some hurried alterations in the Harbour Board's arrangements, such as the cutting of the gangway in half to fit into its new position, but all was in readiness in ample time. As the Opnir came alongside, a detachment of bluejackets, springing ashore, soon had her made fast to the tee of the wharf, and in a moment there was order and quiet — waiting for the appointed time of the landing. THE IANDING. His Excellency the Governor, attended by Captain Alexander, was received by the Ministers on the Queen's Wharf, and a}l took up their positions ready to receive their Royal Highnesses. They were joined by other members of the Ministry and members and offioials of the Harbour Board. Just before 11 a.m. Admiral Beaumont, accompanied by other naval officers, came up the wharf frqm the gangway. Picturesque groups were beginning to assemble here. One very striking one was fonried by the Duke of Roxburgh, Viscount Crichton, and Captain Osborne on ' horseback, the splendid trappings of the uniforms of the Horse Guards Blue being in excellent contrast to the green and black of the Australian ' Horse, which. Captain Osborne wore. At the first stroke of 11 o'clock a bugle rang out, and their Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York, attended by members of their suite, walked .down the gangway, the Band of the "Royal Marines playing the opening bars of the National Anthem. At the same time the guns on shore fired a Royal salute. The Duke and Duchess were received by His Excellency the Governor and Ministers of the Crown, and the Duchess was presented with a very beautiful shower bouquet of arum lilies, narcissi, and maiden-hair fern by Miss Jeanne Beauchamp, daughter of Mr. Harold Beauchamp, Chairman of the Harbour Board. It rested in a holder of silver, and bore an inscription stating that it was presented to Her Royal Highness by Miss Beauchamp on behalf of the Wellington Harbour Board. This I ceremony over, the Duke and Duchess were conducted to their carriage, and having entered it they drove off, attended by their Equerries, the Duke of Roxburgh and .Viscount Crichton, and preceded by members of their suite, amongst whom His Serene Highness the Duke of Teck, Sir Arthur' Bigge, Colonel Byron, Lady Mary Lygon, Lady Katharine Coke, aiid the Hon." Mrs. Derek Keppel were prominent. The Duchess was dressed simply in black, as were also the Ladies-in-Wait-ing. ' A little further on a hundred men from the Wellington Naval Brigade— as smart a lot of naval men as have attended any of the functions in the colonies so far, as one who has seen the Australian receptions' testifies, were drawn up under Lieut. -Commander Bell and Lieuts. Cooper and Biss as a. guard of honour, and saluted as the Duke and Duchess passed. At the same time the Garrison Band' played the National Anthem. On the main wharf some thfee hundrec) veterans in mufti, but wearing their , medals,' reminiscent of bygone wars, stood respectfully at the salute which the Duke acknowledged as he drove along. Further on stUl were the returned troopers who have been fighting the" Empire's battles in South Africa, and the Duke also acknowledged . their salute. Here the scene was. most animated, and the large crowds in the various stands cheered as the Duke and Duchess passed through the gates and entered the city. AT THE WHARF GATES. The ceremony of reception on the wharf being naturally restricted to a few persons, great .preparations had been made for giving their Royal Highnesses a cordial welcome on their entering the city by the wharf gates. Stands capable of holding thousands of spectators had been erected, some being specially reserved for Government and civic notables and others set apart by private speculators "for the accommodation of that portion of the public which pays to see , what is going on. Seatholders had been warned to be in their seats at an early hour, and by 10 o'clock quite a number had wended their way through the muddy streets and taken up their positions on the stagings. The rain which had fallen in the early hours of the morning had made things rather unpleasant, and the prospects of a fine day were none too good. Occasional gleams of sunshine found their way through the clouds, which hung low overhead, and then everything would for a few moments look promising for a heavy shower, so that it was no wonder the weather formed a staple subject of conversation. Shortly after 10 o'clock all those who did not hold tickets for seats were cleared out of the enclosure, and preparations for the reception began to assume definite shape. The local Naval Brigade came marching down Jervois-quay and on to. the wharf to act as guard of honour for the occasion, and a number of members of the staff in their bright scarlet uniforms put in an appearance soon afterwards, and imparted a welcome touch of colour to the scene., Some diversion was caused by the arrival of the mounted infantry, under- Lieut. -Col. Sommerville. A fine lot of men they were — just one's idea of men fitted for rough work— and the quality of their horses was the subject of a good deal of favourable comment. On they swept in a long and apparently never-ending stream, through the barriers into Customhouse-quay, where they took up their Btand in readiness to follow the Royal visitors when required. Members of the St. John Ambulance Society took their places at convenient positions, in readiness for casualties, and the photographers disposed themselves on points of vantage, one party taking possession of the top of the shelter sheds. As to the snapshotters, they were scattered through the crowd in hundreds, and photographs of the scene should in a few hours be as plentiful as blackberries in autumn. The arrival* of the Premier and the Minister for Railways (Hon. J. G. Ward) in gorgeous Court uniforms was a reminder that the hour of the arrival was getting ever -nearer, and the prospect of fine weather, which grew better every moment, raised the spirits of the crowd and considerably counteracted the effects of muddy boots and wet feet. Ever and anon the officers of the mounted infantry cantered in an apparently aimless way up and down the street, splashing the mud around and giving an air of movement and vitality to the scene which was most acceptable. But still it was apparent that the seats were filling very slowjy, and it was felt that the reception would lose a great deal of its completoness unless some means was taken of filling the empty places. The effect of the deliberations of the Reception Com-* mittee was soon apparent. Suddenly a crowd of people swept across Jervoisquay from Hunter-street, and a mad |

scramble for scats • commenced. Those who had already secured places apparently thought an invasion was in progress, and loudly cheered the invaders, while some of the mounted infantry tightened their rains under the impression that their services might be required. But it was all right — it was merely the throwing open of the vacant seats to all and sundry, and in less than two minutes every spare inch of space was occupied. The chivalry of the crowd was made abundantly evident by the fact that not one per cent, of those who thus secured seats were women. THE MUNICIPAL WELCOME. It was getting very close to 11 o'clock now, and every one was on the gui vive. They had not much longer to wait. At the stroke of the hour the first gun of the salute boomed out, the wharf gates were thrown open, the Mayor, in his robes of black silk and ermine, and the City Councillors, lined up, and a cheer greeted the returned Contingenters as they lined up just inside the gates. Like wildfire the word went round, "They have landed," and there was a flutter of excitement among the crowd as the strains of the National Anthem were borne along the breeze. "Royal salute : . Present arms," and a loud cheer went up as the first carriages appeared. The third carriage contained the Duke and Duchess, accompanied by Lord Wenlock, Lord-in-Waiting. Every one knew them— their' features have been made familiar to us by countless photographs, and as their well-known forms appeared cheer upon cheer went up, and the playing of "God Save the King" by the band seemed to have a greater significance than ever before. The carriage containing the Royal party drew up at the place assigned , for it. The Mayor, accompanied by the members of the; City Council and the Acting-Town Clerk" (Mr. Tait) stepped forward and presented their Royal Highnesses with the beautifully-bound and illuminated address from the citizens, the artistic excellence of which has • already been the subject of so much favourable comment. Royal receptions are not the places for long speeches, and his Worship's remarks were brief and to the point. "Your Royal Highnesses," said Mr. Aitken, in clear, distinct tones, "as Mayor of this city I have very great pleasure in handing to you this address, which is an address of welcome to this the Empire City of New Zealand. The citizens of Wellington hope you will have a good time here, and that the weather will be favourable for your enjoyment. Then little Miss Wilson, daughter of Mr. G. Wilson, partner of the Mayor in business, came forward and handed Her Royal Highness a beautiful bouquet, in a' handsome gold holder, engraved with ferns and scrolls, and having a greenstone handle ornamented with gold. Her Royal Highness accepted the floral offering from the little lady with evident pleasure, and the ceremony was over and the PROGRESS THROUGH THE CITY began. The Alexandra. Mounted Rifles formed the first portion of the escort, the Heretaunga Mounted Rifles being in the rear of the Royal carriage, and followed .by a numerous body of mounted rifles. In between came the D Battery, with two gunsj fully horsed, and the crowd, pleased at seeing them included in the procession — from which it, had been proposed to exclude them — gave a rousing cheer. In a few minutes the last of the mounted infantry had cantered bs, the spectators vacated the stands with all speed, and many, eager to get another j glimpse' of the Royal, visitors, rushed away to seek some other vantage-pointf further along the line of route. Leaving behind it the echoes of the National Anthem, and sounding hurrahs, the procession started at a brisk pace up Jer-vois-quay. Stand No. 2 burst into cheers, and waved with a united motion, as the Royal carriage come abreast, and the Duke and Duchess graciously acknowledged the spontaneous- plaudits of thousands of their future New Zealand subjects. Past the Stars and Stripes that, together with Union Jacks, draped the premises Of Messrs. E. W. Mills and Co. j pist the ■transparencies and the Royal Standards and the multi-coloured , bunting, \,ho |>»ocession • advanced to the Citizens' Aich, amid a wave of enthusiasm such aa Wellington,' generally undemonstrative, has seldom seen. THE CITIZENS' ARCH. The Citizens' arch consist? of a mediumI sized structure neatly designed, with the colours well laid 'on,' the whole giving evi- | dence of careful attention to detail. The shield resting on the arch bears the arms of the City' Corporation. The word "Welcome," blue lettering on a white background, stands out convincingly. The main arch is flanked by two smaller ones ; | one of these bears the inscription "From Pakeha," and the other "From Maori," i an indication that our citizenship is not restricted in the matter of colour, and 1 that the warmth of the welcome is by n» means the property of one race alone. The uprights in the front of < the main arch are traced in red and white, and the borders generally are in the same colours. On each side is a circular reI cess, from which the national colours look out, radiating from the centre.. The space between the recesses is marked with various designs, and. a number of shields and flags, tastefully arranged, complete the picture. The roof of the arch, oi, ' rather, the ceiling, is studded with stars — golden with white borders. THE "BLANKET ARCH." From the Citizens' Arch it is but a short step to the "Blanket Arch," | erected by the Wellington Woollen Manufacturing Company (Limited), whose t name it bears. , Blankets red, blankets' white, and blankets . blue form the dominant feature, and by up-ending some of the blankets, and laying the others horizontally against the framework, a very harmonious whole is presented. The cupolas at the four corners carry each a flagstaff and a red, white, and blue blanket flag. Two of the flags show red bodies and .two of them white. A golden lion, standing on a crown, forms the centre-piepe, and there are trade devices effectively arranged on either side. "See the Warmth of our Welcome" is the inscription , 'which the owners have set forth, and there are few people who won't see it. Passing under the "blanket arch," the procession arrived at the turning into Cuba-street Extension, and. the Duke and Duchess met with an enthusiastic reception from the crowd gathered round the site of the future Town Hall. Here the Fire Brigade Station had been decked out in flags with the words vVelcome" - and "Kin Ora", prominently displayed. At Messrs. Smith and Smith's corner a fine array of flags, -and greenery was presented, with tha portraits of Earl Roberts and Sir Redvers Buller, the letters "E.R.," and the Royal Arms. The entry into Cuba-street proper was marked by a change from the decorations of Jervoisquay, in that ferns, nikau, and greenery were predominant, with gay bunting flying . overhead. Cuba-street, in fact, was a veritable garden. . Such fine displays as that at Mr. Winder's premises were continually reproduced as the procession moved up the street between the lines of volunteers presenting arms — they were all along the route— and the festoons over-, head were in themselves a work of art. THE FIRST MAORI DESIGN. Passing southward along Cubastreet, 1 the Maori Arch erected by the Te Aro House Drapery Company in front of their premises first claims attention. There is not the . wealth of detail that marks the other structures, but the arch

contains much interesting workmanship and stands out unique, if not pre-eminent, among its follows. The wood has been stained a rich dark colour, and on it are depicted in the Maori fashion odd-looking eyes and other fanciful figures. Native ferns, "lancewood," "kiekie," and other bush plants are grouped around the pillars. A number of small flags in the well-known colours, at the top of the arch, are a reminder that old New Zealand contentedly enters within the Pax Britannica. Up to this stage, and indeed along the whole of the street, there was no crushing or orowding. The people had ample room to expand their lungs, and they did so. The only disturbing element was that the horse of one of the equerries proved restive, and appeared to trouble the Duchess as it pranced and capered in close proximity to the Royal carriage. Both the Duke and the Duchess frequently smiled and nodded, to the gratification of the people, whose remarks were many and varied. "She just looks a girl," commented a female critic, and the remark was generally endorsed. At Ghuznee-street the strains of the National Anthem, played by the Salvation Army Band, were again heard, and through a green vista that, despite mud and slush and grey skies, seemed quite sylvan in quality, the Royal carriage still journeyed through Te Aro. GREETING OF MARLBOROUGH AND THE SUBURBS. Before turning from Cuba-street into Ingestre-street the procession passed beneath the arch erected by the people of Marlborough and the Melrose, Petone, and Karori Borough Councils. The arch commands attention through being constructed mainly of sheaves of oats, wheat, and barley. The inner circle of the arch is thatched, and a display of bunting is made. On the top of the arch is a prettily painted .expression of welcome from Marlborough, whilst on the sides are shields bearing greetings from the Wellington Suburban Councils. On the reverse side of the arch is simply the word "Welcome." Flags decorate the top, and streamers of coloured muslin entwine the sheaves down the sides. Turning into Ingestre-street, where women composed the majority of spectators, the cheers were hearty, but not so loud as in the more crowded parts of the route. One individual saluted the Royal visitors by playing a few bars of the National Anthem on the cornet, a tribute that was acknowledged by the Duke. At the corner of Ittgestre and Willis streets the Wellington Shipwrights' Society were prominent with their banners, and the members cheered heartily. Passing St Peter's Church a merry peal was rung on the bells, to the accompaniment of the plaudits of the people. The crowds now began to grow denser as lower Willis-street was approached. The Wanganui, Pahautanui, and 'St.* Patrick's College Bands were stationed at points between Ingestre and Willis streets, where also large numbers of school children were assembled. About four hundred children were massed at St. John's Church, and they gave a striking reception, cheering with great vigour and waving red, white, and blue flags. After the Albert Hotel was passed the crowd became more enthusiastic, and i the scene was a very animated one. Balconies, windows, and even the housetops were occupied. The whole of Willisstreet was profusely decorated with flags and trophies, and the straightness and length of the street showed these off to fine advantage. THE CONSULAR ARCH. At tha junction of Willis-street and Lambton-quay the Royal visitors passed through the Consuls' Arch to the accompaniment of applause and cheers. Th© arch, a fine one, was gaily decorated with flags and greenery. The shields, eleven in number, represented — Germany (with the well-known Black Eagle), France (with the tricolour), America (Stars and Stripes), and Japan, Italy, Spain, Norway, Portugal, Belgium, Denmark, and the Netherlands, all with their national colours, making a most effective picture. Ten large poles surmounted the arch, and, topped by flags, added a finish to the structure. Ine words "United and Cordial Greetings from' the Foreign Consuls" were wntten across the semi-circle, which was also gaily festooned with coloured bunting. On each side now the streets -were lined by boys of the Wellington School Cadet Battalion, sturdy little lads stand- . ing steadily "to their arms," and evidently "as proud as peacocks " at occupying such a prominent position. Their uniform— jerseys, with coloured collars and cuffs— were picturesque. The boys made a brave show, and the Royal visitors smiled graciously as they drove through the lines of these sturdy youn? New Zealanders. , , Oil reaching Martin's Fountain on Lainbton-quay (the junction of' several busy streets) there was an enormous crowd from whose throats came tremendous cheering. The Masterfcon Band struck up the National Anthem as the Royal carriage passed, and the military presented arms. It was at this point that some tasteful " decoration' on the Union Bank caught the eye. ' The twinings of green around the columns that are so striking a feature "in the architecture of this building, was very effective. At the Grey-street corner the two big building 3of the Commercial Union and New Zealand Insurance Companies — crowded with spectators, and gaily decorated — were conspicuous, and having passed these the procession arrived at THE DAIRY ARCH. at Panama - street intersection by the National Dairy Association. It is in itself a fine testimony to the wonderful strides made by our dairy manufacturers. The castellated blue towers, effectively decorated with bunting and ferns, make a very striking display. Portraits of the distinguished visitors are shown on each tower, whilst across the centre span the greeting "National Dairy Association Greets the Duke and Duchess" stands out conspicuously. The Association has made a novel effect in its display of lids of butter-boxes and tops of cheese-crates bearing the brands of the names of the many factories associated with it. There is a plenitude of flags flown from the tops of the towers which enhance the effect of one of the prettiest arches on the route, besides wreaths of greenery and shields surrounded with small flags. . It was at this arch that the New Plymouth Garrison Band struck up, and there was another burst of cheers from the spectators, their Royal Highnesses cordially acknowledging! .the compliment. The Economic stand came next (alive with people) beautifully decorated with ferns, palms, etc., and bearing the words "We greet you" in white on a red background, underlined with entwined colours. The Occidental and Club* Hotels and the, Theatre Royal, on the one side, and the Wellington Club on the Terrace, were gaily decorated; and there was a "Welcome from the Wellington College Rifles," Worked in the black and gold of the Wellington College colours on the building formerly occupied by the New Zealand Times. , WESTPORT'S REPRESENTATION. A large 'crowd was assembled near the Westport Arch, and on passing through this fine tribute from the West Coasters their Royal Highnesses were greeted with enthusiastic cheers, especially from those visitors on the stand erected by the Westport Harbour Board. The arch is one

worthy of the West Coa3t, and is perhaps the most striking on the route. Undoubtedly the largest, it commands the attention of all, and is a credit to the designer, Mr. R. A. Young, Engineer to the Westport Harbour Board, and all concerned in its construction. Above the substantial base of the structure are pedestals bearing pillars of solid coal, beneath which are the inscriptions "This is the Coal which Saved the Calliope" — a suggestion which brings at once to memory the celebrated fight against the elements of H.M.S. Calliope in Samoa in March, 1889, when that fine warship steamed out to sea in the teeth of a hurricane which sent so many other vessels of war to destruction. The ability of the Calliope to gain safety, it was stated,! was owing to the excellent quality of Westport coal with which the man-o'-war was supplied. Hence the inscription. On the tops of the pilasters, at the arch impost,, are representations of ingots of gold, and discs of gold on the piers, showing thafi^ot only does the West Coast produce splendid fuel, but also the wherewithal to purchase it. The piers of the main arch are decorated with nikau palms and mamaku ferns, whilst the inside semicircle is covered with ferns. Medallion transparencies of the King and Queen and the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall appear on the arch spans. The inscription reads, "Westport's Greeting," and it is a substantial one. Panels' of coal decorate the base and sides of the arch, whilst from the cornice are flown flags of the Royal colours, surmounted by the New Zealand flag. ' Once through the arch, the top of I Government House tower came into view, j so that the procession was drawing near its objective. Opposite Mason's steps the veterans occupied a special stand. Some of them were men who bore the scars inflicted whilst taking a part in stirring "deeds that won the Empire." The veterans were decorated with medals, and that they still knew how to raise a hearty British cheer was evident by the manner in which they "let go" as His Royal Highness gave them a look that seemed to speak volumes. The significant glance of the JPrince towards' the old soldiers was unmistakeably appreciated by the men. Then came a number of members of Friendly Societies in regalia, the Druids' tableau "Britannia," and the Foresters of Court Robin Hood 'in their picturesque coats of green and hats with white plumes. In passing the Police Station (tastefully decorated) the old-age . pensioners were conspicuous, all heartily cheering and waving a welcome, and just on the other side of the old; people was the commodious stand occupied by the Civil Servants with their wives and families. The Civil Servants' welcome was most hearty. GOVERNMENT ARCH. Almost at the junction of Lambtonquay and Charlotte-street the Royal visitors pass under the Government arch, an imposing structure in the Tudor^ castellated style. There are three spans, the archways being separated by octagonal towers with battlemented and corbelled copings. The towers of the central archway are flanked . by raking battlements extended to the turrets of the side archways. Flngstaffs which shoot up from the turrets carry the New Zealand Ensign, gay streamers, and many flags. An Imperial Crown surmounts the main arch. Coats of arms and crests adorn 1 the archway mouldings, but the most conspicuous and generally admired ornamentation consists of four splendid life-size portraits in oval frames. The portraits on the Lamb-ton-quay facing are those of His Majesty King Edward VII. and *his Queen, whilst on the^ Charlotte-street facing of the structure appear the presentments of their Royal Highnesses, the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York. "God Bless Our Duke and Duchess" is the motto over the main arch. On the western facings among the ornamental work are noticeable the oak and the rose of "Merry England," and on the other the thistle of bonny Scotland, also the "dear little Shamrock" of the Emerald Isle. The stamp of sunny New Zealand, the Britain of the South, appears in the Maori words : — "Ma te Atua korua c atawhai." A BIT OF OLD NEW ZEALAND. The procession now turns into and ascends Charlotte-street, at the top of which is seen a bit of "old" New Zealand. We are reminded of Maoriland as the pioneer settlers found it, robed in all the glory of its magnificent, natural covering. Yes! there- before us is the beautiful tree ferns, the nikau palm, the cabbage tree, the' toi 'toi, the raupo, and the flax. "Kapai, kapai," says the Maori. It is the approach to the Maori arch. .There is no mistaking the identity of the arch, or the genuine Maori material in it, for right ahead, and looking down from the top of the ridgepole of the arch is a i grotesque Maori head, magnificently carved.i It is rather a fierce-looking object, but the Maori invitation "Haere Mai," : which appears beneath the figure, is re- J assuring. And as we pass under the j arch we notice more skilful Maori carving, .and we are told that the carved slabs and other tilaterial in the structure j are ancient and very ..valuable, coming from the Museum and Mr. A. H. Turn- | bull's celebrated collection. This unique arph is thatched in thorough Maori fashion with raupo, etc. One most striking • feature at the ! Maori Arch was a party of Maori men I — Warriors in fighting costume, running, jumping, and gesticulating in a most excited manner as the Royal carriage approached. A number of Maori women in picturesque attire peeped out from a I recess in the arch — a miniature Maori \ whare — and sang weird songs of greeting I to their Royal Highnesses. j Having passed under the arch, and just as we turn into Sydney-street, we look back and catch a glimpse of the eastern facing of the arch. There again is a Maori figure looking down from a height, and on either" side are the carved representations of Maori gods — somewhat hideous in appearance. On this facing the Maori farewell inscription is "Nau mai! N«iu mai!" Away we go, up Sydney-street, once a green deep gully, now a well formed street, on one side Government House, and on the other Parliament Buildings. At the present time the streets is lined with gaily coloured Venetian masts bearing shields and festoons of flags and bannerets. It forms a picturesque avenue, flanked on either side by the foliage of trees in the Government House and Parliamentary grounds. In Sydney-street a few school- children were accommodated, and for their numbers they gave a lusty greeting. Mu-seum-street, was soon passed through, and the next point of interest was the Bowen-street (corner) entrance to Government House grounds. That well-known entrance with the, familiar guard-room, would scarcely be known now by those who pass it daily. The entrance had been converted into what is known as THE FLORAL ARCH. The choicest of New Zealand flora had been utilised in the construction of this picturesque arch. Immediately over the entrance — on the arch 'proper — were the words — "Welcome," exquisitely fashioned in gilded leaves. Under this arch their Royal Highnesses very quickly passed, amidst cheers from a multitude occupying every point of vantage in the neighbourhood. At Government House steps the City Rifles and College Rifles formed a guard of honour. The Wellington Gar-

rison Band was stationed alongside, playing the National Anthem as the Royal party arrived. Their arrival at Government House was heralded also by a flourish of trumpets from trumpeters stationed within the grounds. Sir Robert Stout (Chief Justice) and Lady Stout were at Government House entrance steps when the Royal visitors got there. On alighting from his carriage, his Royal !Higliness, accompanied by Captain Duthie (in com\ mand of the Guard), went along the lines of the guard 'of honour. Colonels Penton and Newall, and two Imperial officers also took part in the inspection. This over, the Duke entered Government House to be the guest of Lord Ranfurly. CONSULAR LEVEE. Immediately after his arrival at Government House His Royal Highness received the Consular representatives of the various foreign nations. The Count de Courte, Consul for France, taking precedence, was introduced first, and after presentation .named his colleagues to His Excellency the Governor, who presented 'them to His Royal Highness in the following order : — Mr. A. Krull, Consul for Germany ; Mr. C. Johnston, Consul for Belgium ; Mr. J. Duncan, Consul for Portugal ; Mr. A. Pearce, Consul for Sweden and Norway; Mr. H. D. Bell, Consul for Denmark; Mr. E. F.ocke, ViceConsul for Germany ;, Mr. H. Johnston, Vice-Consul for the Netherlands; and Mr. A. H. Turnbull, Vice-Consul for Spain. REVIEW OF THE VETERANS. A TOUCHING CEREMONY. After the Consular levee His Royal Highness reviewed some 50 veterans, under the command of Captain Shannon. These had been formed up t in a double line along the avenue fronting the main entrance to Government House grounds. They included old and scarred warriors who had fought for Queen and country in many a bitter strife. His Royal Highness, accompanied by the Duchess, Lord and Lady Ranfurly, Lady Mary Lygon, Viscount Crichton, Lord- Roxburghe, and other members of the Ducal staff, walked slowly down the long line of veterans, with a smile here and a word there, and always, with a ,look of interest on his face, which showed that he did not forget what this seemingly uneven gathering represented, j and the services its members had ren- ' dered their Queen. Here and there along the line His Royal Highness would stop, and lifting some old man's medal, would examine it and ask a question or two. It was touching to see the way. each weather-beaten countenance lightened up at this little act of kindness ; also the eager, expectant look of those ahead, and the almost pitiful look of disappoint- j ment on the faces of those passed by ap- ] parently unnoticed. But it was impos- j sible for His Royal Highness to speak to every one, ana those passed by were not forgotten. After the inspection the Duke and party returned to the steps of Government House, where, turning, ho was greeted with such a round of cheers as only the British soldier is capable of. Cheers were also given for H.R.H. the Duchess, His Excellency the Governor, and the Premier. Then the motley band of warriors turned about and marched out of the grounds. THE MILITARY GATHERING, i The whole of the military arrangements, 'involving the provision of guards of honour and escorts for the Royal visitors, were carried out under the direction of Colonel Pole Penton and his staff, consisting of Majors Owen and Madocks and Captains Bingley and Hughes, D.5.0., assisted by Colonel Newall, C.8., commanding the Wellington Volunteer District, together with his staff officer, Captain Lomax. Six infantry battalions, the Permanent Artil-. lery, the Naval Brigade, and the cadets lined the streets, the 'four mounted battalions, under Colonel Sommerville, forming the escort, together with three guns of D Battery. There were in all about 800 mounted men escorting their Royal Highnesses, and a total of over 4000 volunteers on parade, including the cadet companies. The parade state was as follows : — WELLINGTON BATTALION. Staff — Lieut. -Qolonel Collins, Major Brandon, Adjutant Harcourfc, Captain Henderson, Surgeon-Captain Purdy, and Sergt. -Major Sanderson. The companies were : — City Rifles, Capt W. Duthie ... 53 Wellington- Guards, Capt. J. Duthie 53 Kelbume Rifles, Capt. Davis ... 58 Zealandia, Rifles," Capt. Keir 55 Post and Telegraph Rifles, Capt. Morris 64 Civil Service Rifles, Capt. Lewis ... 41 College Rifles, Capt. Turner 54 Highland Rifles, Capt. Mackintosh 45 Cycle Corps, Lieut. Slinn 25 Bearer Corps, Surgeon-Capt M'Kenzie , 19 Wellington Submarine Corps, Corpl. Fanning 60 WANGANUI BATTAI^ON. Lieut. -Colonel Watt in command. Wanganui Rifles 47 Wanganui Guards ... 51 Wanganui Highlanders 51 Royal Rifles, Marton 47 Manchester Rifles, Feilding 45 Foxton Rifles, Capt. Hunter ... 44 Palmerston Guards, Capt. Goldingham „, 53 Palmerston Rifles, Lieut. Jack ... 45 Wanganui Band, Bandmaster Buckley 20 No. 3 BATTALION (EAST COAST). Major Chicken in command. Napier Guards, Capt. Kettle ... 52 Napier Rifles, Gapt. Alpin 47 Hastings Rifles, Capt. Fraser ... 42* Waipawa Rifles, Lieut. Collett ... 36 Gisborne Rifles, Capt. Warren ... 40 Ranfurly Rifles, Capt. Dodds ... 53 Napier Garrison Baud, Sergt. Spiller 25 TARANAKI BATTALION. Lieut.-Colonel Ellis in command. Taranaki Rifles, Lieut. Cqck ... 69 Taranaki Guards, Lieut. Cook ... 44 Waitara Rifles, Lieut. Dansey ... 40 Inglewood Rifles, Capt. Nops ... 40 Eltham Rifles, Capt. Boddie „.. • 55 Stratford Rifles, Capt. Malone ... 40 Hawera Rifles, Capt. Major , 50 Patea Rifles, Lieut. M'Lean 36 New Plymouth Garrison Band, Bandmaster Haigh , ,„ go RUAHINE BATTALION. Captain Stevenson in command ; Lieut Drummond, acting major; Lieut. Hall acting adjutant. Masterton Rifles, Capt. Blyth 44 Grey town Rifles, Capt. Tait "' 41 Woodviile Rifles, Lieut Howe . 39 Pahiatua Rifles, Capt. Hawkins ,",' 61. Dannevirke Rifles, Lieut. Carlson ... 51 NELSON, MARLBOROUGH, AND WESTLAND BATTALION Major Woolfe in command First Westland Rifles, Capt. M'Farlane ... ... if< 40 Greymouth Rifles, Lieut. Lute '" 38 Westport Rifles, Capt. Carr... „[ 51 Denniston Rifles, Lieut. Lindop ... 49 Reefton Rifles, Capt. Austin 47 Brunner Ranger Rifles, Capt. Tonikies 43 Nelson Rifles, Capt Styles; H Bat^ tery, Capt. Madigan; Stoke Rifles, Capt. Harkness; Waimea Rifles, Capt. Bryant 341 Marlborough Mounted (dismounted), Captain Chaytor 54 Blenheim Rifles, Capt. Powell ... 45 Waitohi Rifles, Lieut. Kenny ... 30

Blenheim and Nelson Baud, Bandmaster Trussell *Q NAVAL BATTALION AND PERMANENT ARTILLERY. Wellington Navals, Lieut. - Commander Bell ..» W0 Petone Navals, Lieut-Commander Kirk ... ■. & Permanent Militia ... ••• •■• — MOUNTED INFANTRY. Colonel Sommerville in command. Ahuriri Rifles, Capt. Tuck 55 Alexandra Rifles 45 * Hawera Rifles 4b Hawkes Bay Rifles 43 Eketahuna Rifles 62 South Wairarapa Rifles, Capt. Shet* tonzard ... •■• 31 Ruahine Rifles 42 , Pahiatua Rifles 41 Otaki Rifles 39 East Coast Rifles, Capt. Winter ... 26 Haramua Rifles, Capt. MilnerThompson .40 Heretaunga Rifles^ Capt. Loveday ... 58 Hunterville Rifles 67 Wairoa Rifles ... ... ... ».. 52 Manawatu Rifles „.. 50 Stratford Rifles 47 Horowhenua Rifles - 35 Marlborough Rifles 65 Opunake Mounted Rifles (dismounted). WELLINGTON CADETS. Clyde-quay, Newtown, South • Wellington, Mount Cook, Te Aro, • Terrace, Thorndon and Petone... 450 Boys' Institute Cadets. As soon the Royal Party had passed, the various troops which had lined the route were formed up into companies and the whole force marched through the streets to the Government Buildings, and thence to Featherston-street, where they were dismissed. The men made a brave show. The arms and accoutrements were in splendid order, and the uniforms gave evidence of having been neatly kept. Lieutenant-Col. Collins, speaking to a Post representative at the conclusion of the parade, said that the muster was a most creditable one, and he was exceedingly pleased at the way in which the various movements had been executed 1 . Other military experts declare that the display made by the troops to-day, "was the finest sight of the kind ever seen in this part of the colony. The men marched superbly. The spectators were delighted, and every now and then they gave vent to their enthusiasm by loud cheers: Throughout their march along the route which the Royal party had just traversed the infantry carried, their rifles with bayonets fixed, and the long line of glittering display produced a particularly fine effect. POLICE ARRANGEMENTS. The management of an immense crowd, *• such as gathered along the route of the procession, is never a light responsibility ; and though the police anticipated no special trouble in the maintenance of order, no precaution was neglected to make sure of the arrangements passing off successfully. The disposition of the police and special constables along the route hac been carefully planned out in detail by Inspector Pender and Sub-Inspector Wason, who had at their disposal no fewer than 150 men. The 20 police on duty in town were reinforced by 15, who weni from here to assisf^afa Auckland, 50 from other parts of ttosfM^y}^ or 10 from, « the surrounding '/districts, a*id about an equal number ot mounted constables ; plu», of course, the 50 bpecials, who were stationed along the route in plain clothe?, but with a band on their arms signifying their status. The excellent arrangement and the general good sense of the peojj'i enabled the proceedings to pass ofi k m tin most orderly manner. The following detectives, who have ac companii. -**c Royal party through Aus tralia, are in attendance throughout tiia ' New Zealand tour: — Detectives Coma.) and Mewmau, Queensland ; Roch.\ Sochaix, and Murdoch, New South "■ :'e,i ; Wilson,, Deverall, and Muiray, Edwards and Mitchell, South Ausiiul:«: Eggleston, West Australia ; Maisack and Boddam, New Zealaud. Xietective Christie, of Melbourne, who was present ut the reception of the Duke on the oooasoi of his former vi.^it, Travels in the P. oval yacht as special officer. Detectives He.«bert and Bailey (Auckland), Brolnrg ord Nixon (Wellington), Chrystal and O.i<*sells (Christchurch), and Oonolly and Hill (Dunedin) are accompanying the party throughout New Zesßand. These, and the local men under Chief Detective. M'Grath, made up the strength of the detective force. WITH THE CROWD. It was a large, . orderly, good-natured crowd, which, for the most parfcj had risen with daylight — it might have been said to have risen with the sun had there been any sun to rise with. But the sun, did not come out very much earlier thtiu the coming of the Duke and Duchess into the public gaze, and then did not stay long. There were many parents who hud brought their children long distances to see Royalty, and from early morning the roads were filled with an overflow from all parts of suburban Wellington, unable to get a footing on tram, l bus, or other vehicles. At an early hour positions were taken up upon coigus of vantage along the route which tho procession was to follow, and there v»as no evidence anywhere of overcrowdvjig of the thoroughfares. * i "Let me tell you,' said an officer to a group of pressmen, "this crowd is exceedingly orderly, and the arrangements made for the public are the best I have seen." There seems to be a place for every one who wants to see what's going on, and along the whole line the folks are most orderly. The police are everywhere, and the military arrangements have been excellently carried out." The speaker had seen the receptions given tc the Royal visitors at other places. A member of the Post' staff had per? sonal evidence that there were detectives abroad. Whilst endeavouring to get through the lines in "Cuba-street just before the Royal carriage came along, he was taken by each arm by two strangers, who were much larger men than himself, and asked his business in a mysterious whisper. Thanks to the courtesy of tha Minister of Railways and the foresight of the Journalists' Institute, the pressman was able to produce passes that proved an "Open-sesame," and then the pres9 and the police fraternised for a brief space of time, the Post man taking ad^ A r antage of the opportunity tp interview the strangers. They had been witih the Duke throughout his colonial tour, and Were therefore primed with interesting observation. During the conversation the cheers greeting the passage of the Royal party along Lower Cuba-street > could be heard rolling in growing volume. "That's pood cheering," observed ono of the members of the wecret Service, "and compares well with the Australian cheers." Asked how the appearance of the city and the reception compared with those . of Melbourne and Sydney, the stranger said that in comparison Wellington has made a very fine show, and the people were as orderly as the best of them. "Yes," he addea, looking up CubVstreet, "this is a good show." As the mounted riflemen went by, both strangers were impressed with the look of both horses and men, and remarked that New Zealand seemed to have plenty of likely-look-ing men left for South African service. But when the Royal visitors came within view of these emissaries of safety, they had roving eyes only for what was going on about the carriage carrying the Duke and Duchess. And when the carriage had passed by, the detectives marched off a short distance behind.

\ The handsome equerries, the Duke of 'Roxburghe and Viscount Crichton, who rode on either side of the Royal carriage, •were conspicuous personages in the procession, their Guards' uniform, with the resplendent breast-coverings, making a bravo show. Another gaily-clothed member of the procession was the red-coated outrider, who proved himself a good rider, for when opposite the Royal Oak' Hotel his horse became frißky, and the people cheered him for his display of buck-jumping. Colonel Penton, who rode in close •proximity to the Royal carriage, onco or twice boro down upon groups of the public who looked as though they were about to break the lines after the carriage had passed. Among those whom the Colonel bore down upon waa a. group jcomposod of two detectives and two pressmen. It was remarkable that just before the Duke and Duchess landed there were ;not more than a dozen people in the ,'open spaco in front of the General' Post Office. It was expected that this tri1 angle Avould be packed with people, but it would appear that tho people preferred occupying the line of route. i. The bodyguard this morning was com.prised of. tho • Alexandra Mounted Rifles, .the oldest of Wellington's mounted corps. JifThis corps, of which some 34 members liwere on parade, wns formed during the Wys of the troubles with the Maoris, and >vns then known ; as the Wangonu'i Cavalry. It was commanded for many years by Captain (now Lieut.-Col.) Sommerville. The Alexandras were strongly represented in South African Contingents, and no less than fourteen will receive their medals to-morrow. Naturally, there was much association iof "affinities" in the vast crowd which lined the streets and occupied the stands. There were lovers of the ordinary or over-the-garden-gate kind ; there were mutual admirers also of crowds and of garish delights, as well as sour-tongued pessimists who asked of each other "who was going to pay for all this show" when the account was rendered for settlement. And .there were others. Two philatelists, for instance, who hadn't met these many , days, camo together on a crowded and ''select; stand. "Fancy meeting you ; and how is your collection getting on?" was the simultaneous exclamation. And off they started to ride their hobby. "1 didn't think, old chap, remarked one, /"that you went in for this sort of thing" '(meaning coming out to meet Royalty). "Well, I don't, as a rule," was tho reply. "But I find that the Duke is one of us, and when he was over in Australia the other day the Federal Postmaster-General collected for him a complete set of every Jssue of the stamps of every colony." "By Jingo ! what a. deal !'' exclaimed tho other ; what a lucky joker he is, eh?" '"Yes, and not only that, but the stamps haven't been cancelled, as is the case usually, and . v the lucky beggar gets a colonial collection . worth over a thousand pounds. Isn't it (Worth while to come out to have a look /at such a prize collector?" And both collectors gazed with awe as tho Prince went /by. Only some forty old-age pensioners occupied the commodious stand constructed for them near the Central Police Station. There was a mustering of returned member's of ouv various South Africaih Contingontu m (ho grounds of the Departmental Buildings before the procession Ijegan this morning. Some 40 members of the First Contingent were prestmt, over 80 of the Second, 90 of the Third, and 30 of the Fourth and Fifth. A woman from Featherston, who was carrying a baby, fainted 'in Sydney-street' this morning after tbe procession had pa^ed. She was attended to by Dr. Collins, and was removed to the Hospital, having sustained some cuts to the face as the result of the fall. THE VETERANS' LUNCHEON. As was the case in Auckland, the luncheon to the veterans, which took place in the Central Drillshed this afternoon, was one of the most interesting functions in connection with the .ducal Ttuuplion. Unfortunately, so many functions had been crowded into the day that it was absolutelyMmpossible for His Royal Highness or the Governor to atljgnd ; but the demonstration was- neverlneless a splendid one, and enthusiasm run high. The toast of "The "King" was received with ringing checiS. Subsequently the -Premier proposed the toast of "His Royal Highness the Duke of Cornwall and York," and the. cheering started with renewed vigour. There were some" 300 veterans present, and about the same number of the younger "men who had been fighting in South Africa. The Premier in a stirring speech referred to the former as the veterans who had done service to the Empire in its wars throughout tho world, and to the latter as the young generation who had fought the battles of the Empire ins South Africa. ( (Cheers.) The present assemblage, he said, was another link in the bond of Empire. (Cheers.) The demonstration to-day waa an indication of the feeling that existed from one end of tne coloi«' to the other, and the welcome to the Duke and Duchess would not have beencomplete without some function in which , these heroic old soldiers of the Empire could take part. (Cheers.) He explained that he had been commended by His Royal Highness to express, his c&ep regret that he was unable to be present, • and at the same time to express £ie great .pleasure it had given him to ute the veterans at Government House. (Loud cheering. The toast of "The Veterans" was received with the greatest enthusiasm; as was also that of "The Returned Soldiers," whom Mr. Seddon described as .chips of the old block. Mr. Seddon also . 'proposed the health of "His Excellency the Governor." Lord Rnnfurly, he said, had been the first of aJI Her Majesty's representatives who had sought out the veterans and honoured them oy bringing them together under ?aia roof. (Loud . cheering.) Lord Ranftrrly regretted that he was unable to be present, as he. desired also to have art opportunity of expressing his thanks, to those of our Te'turned contingents who had. so nobly -upheld the honour of our country and its best traditions. (Cheers. ) We had, , Mr. Seddon addeitf, been singularly fortunate in the representative of the .'Queen and King who had been sent out w.to New Zealand in the past, and Lord 'Ranfurly was not any exception to the rule. (Cheers.) He had had & very anxious and trying time, such as had fallen to the Iof; of no other Governor. The toast was received with enthusiastic • cheering and <,he singing of "For he's « .i°Hy good fe'ilow." The scene w*.s wildly enthusiastic when the veterans cheered the younger men fresh from tha wars and the young fellows cheered v Jne veterans in return. The 'Premier referred to them as "the old 'blocks and the chips of the old blocks." Altogether the function was a thorough success, siivl one that will live alike in the memories of the old men and the younger gf neration who sat beside them. MARCH PAST OF THE FRIENDLY SOCI^iiES. Members, of the friendly societies mustered in 'great force this afternoon, and marched past the Duke and Duchess and the Governor at Government House. The *"~ procession, which was of great length, and contained half a dozen bands, numbered nearly 4000 persons. Its length was rein-art ed upon by His Royal Highness, ■who asked to be informed of tho number on parade. There were present members of the Orders of the Sons and Daughters of Temperance, the American Oddfellows, the Druidr, tho Hibernians, the Recha- • bites, the For«3gterit,_and the Manchester

Unity of Oddfellows. The Salvation Army Band led the procession. Its march through town was witnessed by a very large and enthusiastic crowd of people. The Duke and Duchess stood outside tho western door of Government House during the march fast, His Royal Highness smoking his aftcr-luncheou cigar, and received tho cheers and greoling;s of those on parade with many smiles and much doffing of his hat. The enthusiastic demonstration of some men whilst passing the distinguished visitors was amusing to onlookers. Some waved their hats from the tops oi their walkingsticks, others made sweeping bows, and others again imitated the leaps of a haka dancer. But the Duke and Duchess appeared to bo well pleased with the march past, which was also' witnessed by Sir Donald Wallace (of The London Times), Messrs. J. Coatea and N. Reid (who were introduced to the Duke just before the march past, Mr. John Holmes, Commissioner Tunbridge, and Inspector Pendef, the latter of whom had been introduced to the, Duko this morning. The parade >of the societies was excellently managed, and Mr. Isaac Clark (chief marshal) had many able lieutenants.