DUKE AS PILGRIM

Greymouth Evening Star, 2 December 1926, Page 5

DUKE AS PILGRIM

A NOTABLE SPEECH

(Australian & N.Z. Cable Assn.)

LONDON, December 1.

The Duke of York, replying to the toast of his health at the Pilgrims’ dinner, at the Hotel Victoria, said he hoped in the next six months to justify his claim to the title of pilgrim. He said: —

‘‘The Pilgrims’ Society’s object is the same as my journey, namely furthering the good feeling among the different portions of the AYiglo-Saxon race. The Premiers of the Dominions made their fust public appearance in England during the first Imperial Conference, at a, Pilgrims’ dinner in 1901- I share your belief that you may promote mutual understanding in bringing the people together. “The main principle of finding a solution of the great problems whether political or industrial, ’is personal touch, learning to understand, even if you do not agree with the other man’s viewpoint. Lacking this atmosphere, suspicion is apt to arise among strangers. Personal contact must broaden the mind. That is why the Duchess and I are so keenly anticipating our Australian and New Zealand tour. We hope, apart from official ceremonies, to see for ourselves the people’s life, and share their successes and difficulties. We aie being given a great opportunity of partaking in the cementihg of the Empire, and intend to avail ourselves thereof to the utmost. Aly brother, the Prince of Wales, has shown us the way.

“We regret that circumstances prevent including in the journey any American territory, except Panama. Who is there who does not believe that genuine lasting Anglo-American friendship is essential to the peace of the world and progress of humanity. 1 hope ‘some day that I will be enabled to promote this spirit. It will be a proud day, when like my brother, I can say ‘now, indeed I am a true Pilgrim.’ ’’ During a meeting of representative citizens convened by the Mayor of Christchurch yesterday afternoon, to discuss the Duke of York’s visit, a man dressed in working clothes protested that the meeting was not called at a convenient time for employees. He was not antagonistic, but for the Prince’s visit the £lOOO set aside for entertainment expenses had been exceeded by £6OO. After being assured by the Mayor that the grant this time was not to be exceeded, the man left, remarking that he would have no time to serve on the committees. — Press Assn.