FRENCH SLOOP

Evening Post, Volume CXXIII, Issue 99, 28 April 1937, Page 11

FRENCH SLOOP

AUCKLAND VISIT

A CORDIAL WELCOME

STATE LUNCHEON

(By Telegraph—Press Association.)

AUCKLAND, April 27.

The common bonds between the peoples of France and New Zealand were by the Minister of Justice (the Hon. H. G. R. Mason), who presided at a Government luncheon in honour of the visit of the French sloop Rigault de Genouilly, held at the Grand Hotel. The luncheon was attended by Commander Leon Moron and a number of his officers.

"I want, to" say that this is a very happy occasion indeed," Mr. Mason said in proposing the toast of the guests. He referred to the excellent relations that had been created by previous visits of French warships to New Zealand and. hoped that the officers and crew of the latest visitor would enjoy themselves thoroughly. "I am sure that in the brief time they have here they will see a little of our country, and that it will bring them pleasure," the Minister continued. "It is very different from their own country, but it is full of interest, we are told, and I am sure that the pride, that Frenchmen feel in the beauties of their own country will make them appreciate more completely the contrasting features of this land."

Oh behalf of the Government, Mr. Mason extended a cordial welcome to the visitors. "We have a great bond with the French people, a bond due to the recent war, and we'have an association with France in that thousands of our men left their bones in that country," the Minister concluded. "I think it is better to speak broken English than good French," said Commander Moron, in replying to the toast. He thanked the Government for the reception given through Mr. Mason, and concluded by expressing the hope that French ships would visit New Zealand more frequently. He asked the company to drink to the.prosperity of New Zealand and the Empire.