AMERICAN CRUISER

Evening Post, Volume CXXV, Issue 58, 10 March 1938, Page 18

AMERICAN CRUISER

PARTIES IN AUCKLAND

An exceptionally successful gathering took place in the lounge of tho Grand Hotel, Auckland on Monday afternoon, when Mr. J. G. Grocningcr, the American Consult, : 'at Auckland, held a reception in honour of the visit of the U.S.S. Louisville, Captain R. W. Mathewson and his officers, states the Auckland "Star."

A host in himself, Mr. Groeninger created a delightful spirit of friendliness from the moment of arrival, and Commander Mathewson and his officers readily established a large circle of friends and expressed their pleasure at the opportunity of meeting so many New Zealanders. .

Bowls of gaily-coloured asters and zinnias gave a brightening touch to the lounge, and the flags of both nations occupied a vantage place in the vestibule. ; .

The white uniforms,of the host and guests of honour provided a cool note, and some smart new costumes worn by the visitors with particularly striking hats, gav.e the cocktail hour a definite-

ly autumn touch. The guests included the members of the, various consulates, representatives of the Navy and Army, and a number of representative citizens.

The following day members of the three services, the Consular Corps and other representative citizens of Auckland, were, the guests of Captain R. W. Mathewson, of the United States ship Louisville, and his officers at an At Home. ■ After the guests had been received at the f top of the gangway they were met by officers, who conducted them in, parties through the ship, and later refreshments were served at each side of the quarterdeck. 'Awnings and flags of the Empire had been effectively ' used •to enclose the quarter*, deck, and it was here also that dancing took place, the ship's band supplying the music.

Among the ladies present were the Mayoress (Lady Davis), the Lady Evelyn Drummond, and the Countess von Lucknef. , ,