CANADA'S LETTER

Evening Post, Volume CXXVIII, Issue 14, 17 July 1939, Page 14

CANADA'S LETTER

THEIR MAJESTIES' VISIT

The following extract is from a letter received by a Wellington man from a friend living in Winnipeg, Canada. It gives an eye-witness's impressions of their Majesties' recent visit to that country.

"We gave their Majesties a wonderful reception," he wrote, "not only in Canada but in the United States as well, and no matter what experiences they have enjoyed in the past I am quite sure they were favourably impressed with the wonderful loyalty displayed in this country and the marvellous expression of friendship extended to them in the United States. They both made extremely courteous gestures while in Canada which endeared them to their subjects—such as spending extra time with veterans and children. I might give you one example. The train stopped in an isolated spot in Northern Ontario and the Queen got off the train to speak to a mother and child. While saying goodbye the Queen said to the little girl, T will throw you a parcel from the train—you watch for it.' As the train pulled out the Queen threw a little package of biscuits to the child, bearing the signature 'Elizabeth R.,' and I will venture to say the signature will remain in the possession of the family for ever."

"They left our shores last night," the writer continues, "and really it was like saying good-bye to one's best beloved, but as one observer expressed himself, 'the departure of their Majesties will give us a chance to rest our throats from cheering, singing "God Save the King," and swallowing marbles as large as apples.' *'

A very successful and entertaining concert held at Aro Street Methodist Mission was given by members of the Welsh Choir, in their picturesque national costume, aided by the Kilbirnie branch of the R.S.A. ladies' auxiliary, who performed two amusing plays. Songs were given by Miss Phillips, Mesdames Bacon and McLeod; elocutionary items by Mr. Alan Bruce; a humorous sketch by Mesdames H. and A. Bruce; and an impersonation of an old Welsh lady selling sweets by Mrs. Morrisby.