THE ROYAL VISIT.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 136, 19 June 1901, Page 3

THE ROYAL VISIT.

THE DUKE AT WELLINGTON

(Special to Times.) Wellington, last night. Although the morning broke gloomy, the weather fortunately held up, and at about eleven the sun shone. Everything was damp, but in spite of this thousands lined the streots, prepared to give the Duke a hearty reception. On reaching the wharf the officer in charge of the Ophir declined to berth at the spot chosen, being under the idea that there was no provision for twin-screw vessels. He said, u V/e are taking no risks.” This necessitated a hurried alteration, but punctually at eleven the Duke and Duchess marched down the gangway, being received by tbo Governor and Ministers, except Mr Carroll, who had remained to see through the native gathering in the North. Tho daughter of the Chairman-of the Harbor Board presented tho Duchess with a bouquet, resting in a silver hold, tho gift of the Harbor Board. On tho main wharf, 300 veterans were drawn up. Among these, I noticed Mr Gold-Smith, Commissioner of Crown Lands, and MrJHarry Reed. Mr Townley only arrived late last night, or, no doubt, he would have been included. Further on, the returned troopers, including the Gisborne section, were recognised by the Duko. At the wharf gates, hundreds of seat-holders greeted the Dulto effusively. Here tho Mayor presented a beautifully-illuminated address, saying in conclusion : “ The citizens hope that you will have a good time here, and that tho weather will l bo favorable for your enjoyment." Tho daughter of the Mayor’s partner (Mr Wilson) presented a boquet in a gold holder, with a greenstone handle. The progress through tho city then began. The lino of march was lavishly decorated with bunting and greenery. Ten arches of artistic design were passed through. On arrival at tho Maori arch, the Maoris perched above gave a hearty welcome, and all through tho Duke was greeted with enthusiastic cheering. Among those watching the procession, I noticed Mesdames Townley (Mayoress of Gisborne), Willoek, A. J. Cooper, Biddolls, and G. Spence, Misses Siddells, Annio Martin, and Poswillo, Captain Cumming, and Messrs Christopher Davies, Townley, V. Fyke. G. Grant, A. F. Matthews, Thco. Larsen, and Muir. The veterans and returned troopers were entertained at luncheon. Neither tho Duko nor tho Governor were present, but tho Premier expressed the Duke’s regret. Four thousand members of friendly societies marched past at Government House this afternoon. The only Gisborno faco I recognised was that of Bro. Arthur Georgoson (Kechabites), and Bro. Mackay, woll-l-mown to Gisborno Druids, occupied a prominent position. The Duko laid tho foundation stone of the Town Hall this afternoon. Tho Gis borne mounted men formed tho Governor’s escort,

Aft,or laying the stone the Duke went on to say : Mr Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen, —It is an interesting coincidence, but somewhat difficult task, tho arranging of iho dates on the B(3th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo in this way. Your new town hall, tho foundation stono of which I had the honor of laying, will be especially associated with tho memory of tho l)uke of Wellington and with tho crowning history of his great career. Tho new building, when completed, will, I trust, fully meet tho increased requirements of tho extended municipal government of this ever-growing capital of tho colony. You aro fortunato in laying out now cities, in that it is possiblo to secure ample space for your recreation, the want of which is often painfully ovident in largo centros of tho Old Country. I fool confident that in this enlightened and intelligent community, tho importance of securing tho best possible municipal administration will alsvays be kept before the eyes of your Statesmen and people, for nothing would moro contribute to the physical and moral well-being of tho country than tho special pursuit of such an aim. Tho Duchess and I can assure you that we will long remember tho splendid reception which your City has given us to-day. (Cheers.)” Tho party subsequently attended the Maoriland Bazaar in aid of tho hospital for incurables.

To-night the rccoption is taking place nt Government House. The City is brilliantly illuminated, and thcro is a fireworks display from tho warships. The night is fine, and tho stroots thronged.