“TRAVEL DE LUXE.”

Hauraki Plains Gazette, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 5150, 11 July 1927, Page 3

“TRAVEL DE LUXE.”

PADEREWSKI AND OUR RAILWAYS

With the idea of offering more luxurious accommodation to those who are willing to pay for it the Railway Department is now able to provide distinguished visitors and tourist parties with reserved carriages, equipped with the latest comforts and conveniences, including shower baths, kitchen, lounge,, and sleeping compartments. These cars have been used in the past for the Prime Minister, and Ministers of the Crown, but have not been by any means fully engaged. Paderewski took advantage of the opportunity afforded during his recent tour, of the Dominion, and travelled in one of the carriages used by Their- Royal Highnesses the Duke and Duchess of Y r ork. He was so impressed with the service given by the railways, that he has forwarded to the Right Hon. J, G. Coates the following letter of. appreciation : —

“The administration of t-he State railways have treated me very gener,ously indeed. The splendid Ministerial cars so kindly offered for my journey in both Islands not only gave my little party the greatest possible comfort, but also enabled us to fully enjoy the remarkable beauty of your country. I was just going to express my most grateful thanks when your gracious letter and the N.Z. Railway Magazine’ were brought to me. They greatly add to my indebtedness and enhance my gratitude towards you. While thanking you most warmly for so much courtesy and kindness I can assure you that my visit to the country, the destinies of which have been entrusted to you, will always be counted as one of life. Though going homeward I shall leave your hospitable shores with keen regr.et, and shall never cease to cherish the memory of my stay among your highlycultured people ”