FESTIVITIES IN HONOR OF THE MARRIAGE OF THE PRINCE OF WALES AND PRINCESS ALEXANDRA.

Lyttelton Times, Volume XX, Issue 1113, 11 July 1863, Page 4

FESTIVITIES IN HONOR OF THE MARRIAGE OF THE PRINCE OF WALES AND PRINCESS ALEXANDRA.

LYTTELTON. Tuesday, July 7 th, 1863, will long be remembered as the day on which the people of Lyttelton demonstrated their loyalty and attachment to the person of our beloved and widowed Queen, by their participation in the universal rejoicing in honor of the marriage of his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. These celebrations are, without doubt, the events of the month in Canterbury, and for the edification of our friends at home and in the neighboring colonies it is a pleasurable duty to chronicle what was done on this particular occasion. Although some little feeling of disappointment had been evinced at the short notice given by the authorities to have a day set apart for the holiday at the time of the Queen's birthday, the news brought by the mail in June roused the inhabitants to have the business done properly, and they soon determined not to be behind other Englishmen in their disply of loyalty. The Municipal Council took the initiative, and instructed their chairman to call a public meetitg of the inhabitants; this was held in the Town Hall on the 12th of June, when a general committee was appointed, and a liberal sum subscribed in the room. The provincial authorities caught the infection, and very satisfactory arrangements were decided on; it was considered desirable to have the festivities in Lyttelton and Christchurch on different days, in order to give both towns the opportunity of exchanging civilities. Lyttelton was to show her loyalty on the 7th July, and right well it was done. The morning opened with genuine Queen's weather, at early dawn a signal gun reverberated across the harbor, by 8 o'clock clouds of bunting began to show on the ships and on shore; everybody appeared determined to give themselves up to a day of real enjoyment, each one trying in friendly competition to outvie his neighbor in display. Several handsome festal flags, adorned with flowers and evergreens, decorated the leading thoroughfares, and never before did the people of Lyttelton join in public festivities so general, so genial, and so enthusiastic. Animated by on® common bond of strong instinctive loyalty, all classes joined spontaneously in the movement to evince their deep-seated attachment to our beloved Queen and the members of her family.

For the sake of order we will give the details under their distinctive heads as far as practicable. The fineness of the weather no doubt tempted many people living on the Peninsula and at the head of the Bay to take a trip to Lyttelton. By 9 o'clock, a large number of holiday folks began to throng the streets; several boats from a distance had arrived, which, besides their living freights, brought large supplies of flowers and evergreens; some persons more tasteful than others had arranged the branches from the tree fern into the form of the Prince of Wales' plumes, and in combination with the naio, wattle, and cabbage-tree formed very appropriate decorations. The real business of the day, as set down in the programme, did not commence till half-past 10, yet the streets long before this time assumed a very gay appearance. The members of the various bodies intending to form part of the procession might be seen hurrying to and fro, particularly the members of the Fire r.i'igade in their new uniform, the children of the various schools, the different secret orders, and the watermen. We will now proceed to Winchester Street and describe the marshalling of THE PROCESSION. Police. Volunteer Band. Children of various Schools, &c. Banners of the Prince and Princess of Wales, with Guard of Volunteers. The Memorial Trees, on a waggon drawn by horses, with six young ladies tastefully dressed, bearing Banners with mottos. Lyttelton Watermen, with Boat and flags, Boys dressed as watermen. The Ancient Order of Foresters. The Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Lyttelton Fire Brigade, with Engine decorated. Freemasons. Members of the Provincial Council. Banner of Town of Lyttelton, with Guard of Volunteers. Members of the Municipal Council. Chairman of Municipal Council. Commemoration Committee. Police. It was soon evident that the Procession Committee had been obliged to alter the programme; this was caused in a great measure by the non-arrival of several people intending to take part in the proceedings. At the time appointed, the procession began to move in the above order, the police forming the advance guard; the appearance of the men was highly creditable; and although not very numerous, it is a satisfactory reflection that so small a force is all that is requisite to ensure the respect due to the majesty of the law. The Volunteer Band was everything that could be desired, considering the difficulties they have to contend with to keep up an organisation. The children belonging to the various schools came next, numbering over 400, under the superintendence of their teachers. The little folks seemed to enter into the spirit of the occasion and loudly cheered during the progress of the procession. Next in order came the banner of the Prince and Princess of Wales, very tastefully executed by some of our fair friends in Lyttelton, with a guard of honor from the volunteers, under the command of Captain Murray-Aynsley. It was very gratifying to see so many don the uniform of the Lyttelton Companies, but it was impossible not to recall the time two or three years back when 120 men were found ready to answer to the roll call. We believe that our thanks are due to W. B. Bray, Esq., of Avon Head, for the fine sapling oaks planted in commemoration of these festivities, and to Mr. Wilson, of Christchurch, for having them forwarded to Lyttelton. The triumphal carriage containing these memorials was gaily decorated with flags and evergreens, and furnished by Mr. Wm. Graham. We must not forget to mention that the six young ladies, gaily dressed, bearing banners with suitable mottos, added a charm to this part of the programme, and perhaps formed the gem of the procession. The Lyttelton Watermen, although not a numerous body, showed their loyalty in a very marked manner. A splendid royal blue silk banner preceded the carriage containing the decorated boat, with boys dressed in man-of-war style. The watermen on foot, bearing oars and other implements of office, dressed in the traditional cut of the London watermen with bell-toppers, had a very singular and pleasing effect. The Fire Brigade followed, with their splendid engine drawn by horses, under the superintendence of J. T. Curtis, Esq., mounted on horseback. The brigade appeared in the new uniform provided by the Municipal Council, thereby adding considerably to the character of the procession, and giving us the gratifying assurance that we are progressing towards the formation of a fine body of men for active service whenever required. The Foresters, Odd Fellows, and Free Masons came next, with their splendid regalia. The Foresters in particular, although not long an organised body in Lyttelton, showed well. The Odd Fellows of the Manchester Unity maintained the proud position of their order, several officers from other Lodges in the province having joined them on this occasion. Last, though not least in importance, the Free Masons, assisted in one of the principal ceremonials of the day, and formed no inconsiderable part of the procession. A guard of Volunteers came next, supporting the Banner of the Town. Amongst the flags exhibited this was the best; it was painted by Mrs. Donald, and will for the future form the Banner of the

Town of Lyttelton. As no description can do justice, it must be seen to be properly appreciated. The members of the Provincial and Municipal Council, with the police, formed the last of the procession, acting as a guard of honor to the Chairman of the Municipal Council. To give our readers some idea of the area of ground over which the procession extended, the first part was rounding Norwich Quay when the last portion passed the jail—about 500 yards in length— not bad for the little town.

The Procession having made a circuit of the town, halted on the Market Reserve, where the two oak trees having been planted by Mesdms. Donald, Hamilton, Aynsley, and Willcox, the commemoration stone - was laid in honor of the auspicious event, with full Masonic honors, by W.M. Brother Donald, assisted by the brethren of the mystic order. At the close of the ceremonial, the Rev F. Knowles offered a fervent prayer for the Prince and Princess of Wales and her most gracious Majesty, and the company separated to join in the next part of the programme, though not without some misgiving as to the weather, for drops of rain had begun to fall, and a sou'-wester was looming over the hill on the other side of the harbor. The rain, however, cleared oft', though the sky looked anything but promising, and the regatta began. In the meantime the children were, by the courtesy of Mr. J. Drummond Macpherson, regaled at his store with a substantial repast of roast beef and plum pudding, to which, it is needless to say, they did ample justice. Mr. Gee was the providore. THi; IIOAT RACES. The Princess of Wales Prize, value £18, by fouroared boats, with rudder; open to all comers. Time to be allowed at the rate of 10 seconds per foot for length of keel. Entrance, 10s 6d. First boat £1210 0 Second boat 5 0 0 Third boat Entrance money. Course: Start from a line between a buoy off Government jetty and the jetty, round the hulks Federation and Gratitude; round a boat moored off Officers' Point; back to starting point. Twice round. The following boats came to the start:—Luck's All, Albert and Alexandra, Banshee, Evening Star, and Try for It. Five boats entered for the race; a good start was made, with Banshee leading. The boat Luck's All, belonging to Mr. G. Messiter, came in the winner by about 40 seconds. The second prize will have to be contended for again in consequence of two of the boats fouling.

The Prince of Wales Prize, value £18, for amateurs, in four-oared boats, with rudder; same allowance of time for length of keel as above. Entrance, 10s 6d.

First boat £12 10 0 Second boat 5 00 Third boat Entrance money. Course: Same as previous four-oared race. Win if I Can 1 Rose of Denmark 2 New Chum 3 Only three boats came to the starting-poing; the race was soon in the hands of the first and second boats. It was evident that the crew of the New Chum required practice; they came in a bad third. The Celebration Prize, value £15, in boats with two oars, and 25 feet in length, by watermen only, without rudder or steersman. Entrance, 10s 6d. First boat £10 0 0 Second boat 5 0 0 Third boat ... ... Entrance money. Course : Same as in previous race, only once round. Open to all boats except winning boats of either the previous races, and to be pulled by Lyttelton watermen only who have regularly plied for hire at least one month previously. Albert and Alexandra 1 Evening Star 2 Rifleman... ... 3 A good start was made, and the lead kept by the Evening Star till rounding the hulks, when the crew of the Albert and Alexandra made a good spurt and got ahead, winning easily. THE SPORTS ON SHORE. Considerable amusement was created amongst those who witnessed the various races. The arrangements of the committee appeared to give general satisfaction. THE PUBLIC DINNER Took place at the Church School-room, under the management of Messrs. Wheeler and Nurse. The ox given by his Honor the Superintendent, which had been roasted whole, was placed at one end of the room, and the sheep presented by Messrs. R. and G. Rhodes, in addition to their liberal subscriptions, occupied one of the side tables. Several other substantial joints, and abundance of beer and wine were provided. Hundreds of people appeared to enjoy themselves, and none more so than our friends the Maories, who mustered in considerable numbers from the neighbouring pahs. The weather since noon had shown symptoms of approaching rain, and at dusk it began to come down freely; as the shades of evening drew nigh, the various buildings began to show signs of THE ILLUMINATIONS. In Oxford-street the following appeared conspicuous : — The Custom-house displayed in colored lamps the Prince of Wales' plume, with V. It., facing Norwich Quay. Mr. J. I). Macpherson's store—A very large transparency, emblamatical of the occasion. The Telegraph Office—Transparency with stars and the initials A. A.

The ' Times' Office—Large transparency with the shield of Denmark, surmounted by the royal crown on the left, the arms of Lyttelton proper quartered on the right, and in the centre the shield of his R.H. the Prince of Wales with plume and jewelled coronet; the following motto in scrolls at the base, surrounded by laurel wreaths : — " The wish of the ' Times,' ' God bless the Queen, Albert, and Alexandra.' " The right and left had corners of the whole showy flags of all nations properly draped amongst the scrolls and shields; when lighted it was much admired. Mr. Louisson —Transparency in each window. Mr. Renshaw —Star in colored lamps. Police-office — Large transparency representing the coronets of the Prince and Princess and mottos. Post-office —Nil. Mr. Hester — Large transparency — Prince of Wales' plume and mottos the length of the building. The Goal was the centre of attraction at this end of the street; for some considerable time before Mr. Seager had enlisted all the available talent amongst the debtors to produce the beautiful effects exhibited on Tuesday night. The front gable ends of the buildings facing Oxford street were illuminated with Chinese lanterns forming the initials of the Prince and Princess; a large transparency, portrait of her Majesty, filled one of the upper windows. On the side facing the Market square an immense transparency representing the union of two hearts witli a circlet of laurel, besides other appropriate decorations, aud at the upper end of the debtors' department a large number of lanterns formed the initials of the Royal pair—A. A. In Winchester street we noticed several candle illuminations, and in the house and grounds of Wm. Donald Esq., R.M., some very pretty designs in Chinese lanterns and other illuminations. 1 Canterbury street —Mr. Gee's transparency was much admired. Woledge & Co exhibited a small transparency of the Prince's plume and motto. Mr. Ileslop introduced something very novel for the occasion. The ladies of the establishment dressed out the windows of the store with flowers, festoons, and appropriate mottos, and the effect was charming. Lawrence & Co.—"Variegated lamps, besides all kinds of candle illuminations. London-street shone out well. The corner of London-street, Mr. Billen's, exhibited a large reflector. Mr. Hawks—Candle illumination. Mr. Genet—Transparency, portraits of the Prince and Princess of Wales, with A. A. Mr. Mason—Candle illumination. Mr. Mills—Ditto. Mr. Dash—Ditto.

Bank of New Zealand—Transparencies of Prince of Wales' plume, in circlets of laurel, with Cupid. The effect was exceedingly good. Mr. Merson —Candle illumination, scarlet flags, with mottos in white letters. Mr. Preece—Neat transparency of plume and coronets. Mr Fyfe—Candle illumination. Mr. Slinger—Ditto. Mr. G. Tayler—Colored lamps, with shields. Nearly every house in this street showed something in the shape of illuminations. Norwich Quay, Miles and Co. —Large transparency, with the Royal Standard and Danish ditto, and three designs in variegated lamps. The Union Bank of Australia was profuse in the display of lamps, and had a large transparency, well executed by Mr. Funston. Bank of New South Wales —Transparency in windows, and candle illumination. Mitre hotel—Several transparencies in front windows. The royal initials A. A. in large character over the verandah. Robin Hood Hotel—Scotch Thistle, Prince of Wales, plumes and wreaths in colored lamps. Cameron, Bros.—Scotch Thistle in colored lamps. Mr. Symington's Store—Colored transparencies with the arms of the Prince and Princess, and A. A., V. R., &c. Canterbury Hotel—Prince of Wales plume in colored lamps. Many private houses illuminated on the hill sides, which produced a very pleasing affect. Amongst the many, we noticed particularly the residences of Mr. Hargreaves, Mr. Buchanan, and Mr. Gundry. The fireworks ought to have been displayed at 9 o'clock, but owing to the non-arrival of Mr. Prescott from Dunedin, this was rendered impossible. The ships Metropolis, Sevastopol, and Roman Emperor lent their aid during the day to give eclat to the festivities and illuminations, besides discharging their big guns and firing innumerable rockets and blue lights. , The trowel used on the occasion of laying the foundation stone of the commemoration monument was manufactured by Mr. W. Billens, London street, ffhe ladies who assisted at the ceremony of planting jtlie memorial trees are to have silver spades, bearing the Lyttelton Arms, as souvernirs of the event. , Thus far our pleasurable task is complete, everything having appeared to pass off to the satisfaction of everybody. The ball at the Town Hall terminated the festivities of the day, and about 100 people enjoyed the dancing till next morning. The streets have again assumed their wonted quietude, and, having had our pleasure, we shall one and all resume our occupations none the worse for the day's enjoyment. CHRISTCHURCH. Thursday, the 9th instant, was the day fixed for holding the festival in Christchurch. For the previous four-and-twenty hours the rain had descended in torrents and at sunrise the most weatherwise would hardly have dared to predict a fine day. Still, bad as the weather had been, no halting could have been observed in the progress of the preparations, for the public mind had been sustained by the announcement of the ' Press' that we should have a fine day, and as the ' Press' is always right, the public mind was naturally easy about the matter. And a lovely day it proved, so bright, balmy, and beautiful as to satisfy the most sceptical that our climate is one of the finest in the world. Undismayed by the threatening aspect of the morning—for the sun did not shine out till ten o'clock—the town was astir at an early hour with parties hurrying to their several rendezvous, while flag after flag was loosed from the various staffs, and long lines of the gayest colours were stretched across the streets at different points. Conspicuous for an effective display of bunting was the Government Building, which, from its elevated position, attracted the eye throughout the day. With a commendable punctuality the procession commenced to form near the Town Belt on the Papanui road at ten a.m. As the deputations from the several trades took up their positions, it soon became evident that the procession would far exceed both in extent and brilliancy of effect any result that could possibly have been anticipated. When after an hour's necessary delay in organization it was at length fully formed it could not have extended less than three quarters of a mile in length, and after the children had joined,it must have counted in its ranks at least two thousand souls. It is difficult to convey an accurate idea of the brilliant effect produced by the various bodies who helped to swell the ranks, and it would be as difficult and more iuvidious to attempt to give the palm to any particular section of the procession. Among the most attractive however we may fairly place the printers, who, in addition to the traditional press, which, fixed upon a decorated wagon, was kept working at intervals along the route, had got up an admirable representation of Caxton, the first English printer, the dress and other details having been closely copied from an engraving taken from an original picture. Perhaps even more attractive than Caxton was the attendant " Devil." In a tight fitting black skin, with fiery eyes, white horns, wings, and a most portentous tail, this imp of darkness afforded a fund of amusement not only to the little children but to those of a larger growth. Equally attractive was the procession of the Foresters, with Robin Hood at their head, and the various insignia of their order; the banners of this order were especially brilliant and effective. Among the most conspicuous trades we noticed the Stonemasons, bearing a large banner of white and blue silk, on which was painted three towers, with the masons' square and compass. The operative bricklayers, bearing a blue and white banner, with the insignia of their trade, a brick-axe, bolster, a square and three blocks, a Prince's feather and clasped hands below; motto, "In God is all our trust." The Carpenters, bearing a neat and modest banner, white with red border, carpenters' arms, square and compasses, with the letters A.A. on each side of the square. A cart decorated with branches and flags, containing plough and harrow, followed, which, along with the thrashing machine, properly decorated with flags and branches, represented the Agricultural Interest. The Millers and Bakers of Christchurch filled a large and handsome waggon, tastefully and appropriately decorated with branches and several native cabbage-trees on each side of the wagon; in front was a bag of flour (marked " Woods," silk dressed) representing the stall' of life. The banner borne behind the the wagon was a plain but handsome one of green silk, on which was depicted a wheatsheaf ; motto, " Peace and Plenty." The Butchers turned out in a body, all mounted, dressed in light blue surcoats, bearing a large and handsome banner, blue with a red border, displaying the marrow-bones and cleaver, A.E.A. in a wreath of oak; motto, " Roast beef of Old England;" also two other plain flags, one red, white and blue, the other red, white and green. The Tailors' company followed in two dog-carts, the front one bearing a neat and modest green silk banner, with a white lamb in a gilt cincture, Y.R. and A.A., a letter in each of the four corners. The Blacksmiths were represented by a banner marked Anderson's Foundry, centre a smith at an anvil, at work, and surmounted witli the implements of his trade; smiths' coat of arms above, three hammers with three gold crowns and chevrin; below there was a locomotive engine at work, a steamer sailing, and above a blast furnace. This was a very handsome sky blue and pink flag, and one of the best in the procession. The banners and insignia of the different Orders present showed with great effect as they sparkled and glittered in the sun or were agitated by the breeze. First we will notice the Foresters' standard, which was a very large and handsome one of green with red border and fringes, with A.0.F., Court Star of Canterbury, No. 2309, and was borne behind Robin Hood and Little John by several Foresters clad in green. The emblem—a handsome engraving in a gilt frame—followed next, on which was depicted a stag's head supported by two Foresters, with the motto of the order, " Unity, Benevolence, and Concord," on a scroll; a stag's head on a cushion and borne by four Foresters; stag's horn on a pole, by a Forester; stag's horns decorated with flowers, &c. The Fire Brigades, Nos. 1 and 2, looked particularly well. The united body consisted of 50 men, preceded by their dog ' Bob,' a black curly fellow, who turns up at every fire. They carried two handsome red banners, motto "Always Ready." The senti-

mcnts of the day was also expressed, curl, | ' bearing the inscription "The Hope of'i;mrjJ'', nn - r the Ilose of Denmark." We must riot i^r,,,'./'! 1 ' 1 Order of Oddfellows—who hore a very , j tastefully executed standard, with the foll w ' U "City of Christcimrch, 4602, M.U., u larg<.\,j!V ; representing the earth, nearly covered bv of fellowship, and the appropriate motto ' Aiur' Amicitia, Veritas';" a second standard, or p,.,,,]. ,r ' flag, contained the word, in gilt letters, •• The City Flag was a splendid concern, borne W men, and conveying the heartfelt wishes <,f t j '/ people in its expressive motto, " God bless the ['rh and Princess." The different schools had biuineand flags too numerous to mention. We High School boys, who were dressed in blue seam' and white kid gloves, and white satin and s ;o' rosettes; they bore several handsome little comprising two Danish and two English flags very handsome blue silk, striped with white innntr was as much as one of the old High School bocould stagger under; a very large tabard lookin', banner, borne by one of the assistants, had the f,,r lowing motto printed on it, " Optimorum Hominu-n est altissima, capere." Some of the elder boys bor< a magnificent crown of artificial white and red also two letters A on separate poles, in white union jack, and other flags. The Riccarton scitoM had a handsome banner, A.A. and A.E.A. TlkPrebbleton school also had appropriate flags, a roval standard, and God Save the Queen. The inhabit, ants of the Ferry Road had a very large and hand' some flag, bearing the following expressive mottoj " A Royal union, sanctified by love. Gains hopeful promise, may it happv prove.'' The Heathcote Valley settlers had, in pleasant emulation, an equally handsome flag, in shape, ?lz(and general appearance, conveying their hr'arfi-lt wishes in the motto " God bless the Prince and princess of Wales." Both standards were very tastefully got up. Then the Christchurch Totai Abstinence Society must not be omitted, their motto of " Peace and Plenty " was very significant. Last, not least, were the Children of the Band of Hope, headed by their officers, and the Standard of the Unitv. bearing the words " Christchurch Band of Hope' Town and Country," countless flags and pennant--were borne by the children, bearing mottos, anions which we noticed " For thy brethren's sake abstain," " Love shall be the conquerer," " Hurrah for the Maine law," and others too numerous to mention, the rear being brought up by a large standard, bearing the motto " Train up a child in the way that lie should go." Every child, of any age, bore a small pennant or flag, which from a distance had a verv striking and gay appearance. Every chiid looked animated and happy, and pleasure could be plainlv read in every little face. The children from the different Sunday Schools were also present, decked with white favors, and bearing flags. We do not think they ever spent such a happy day in their little lives; no quarrelling was to be seen, all were merry. Eight young ladies, all dressed alike in red cloaks, and beautifully trimmed white hats, daughters of the Superintendent, and City Councillors, had been . chosen to assist at the planting. $ Space would fail us were we to enter into a minute description of the procession. It is sufficient to say that it excited the surprise and admiration of the many thousands who witnessed it at various points of its route. At 11 a.m. it was fully formed, and started through the town to the south-east corner of the Town Belt, where two oak trees, the sift of Mrs. Deans and C. Davie, Esq., were planted as a memorial of the day. [The procession was formed in accordance with the regulations previously published.] On arriving at the spot selected for planting the trees the various functionaries alighted from their vehicles and took their places on the platform erected for the purpose, a guard of Volunteers under the command of Capt. and Adjutant Armstrong keeping the ground. When something like order had been effected, his Honor the Superintendent addressed the assemblage from his carriage as follows: — Fellow Colonists, —Though almost the youngest of the colonies of Great Britain, we have this day, by all the means in our power, shewn our loyal affection for our mother-country. Like the trees we have just seen planted, the emblems of old England, the British Empire has Ivi-n of slow and gradual growth; at times beaten by tempest.-, at other times cheered by sunshine, the liberty and freedom of our ancient land have gradually been reared t<> such fair proportions as to claim and merit the admiration of the whole world. Through many generations have the counterbalancing forces of the English Constitution been slowly but suiely developing themselves into that form which now we proudly call our English State: the energy and fire of democracy, tempered by the steadiness and perseverance of aristocracy, guided by the presiding power of monarchy, have produced that form of government we are so strongly attached to. With rare exceptions. th<English people have been distinguished by a deep auvi fervent loyalty. Even under very severe trials that teelnK has maintained itself, so that loyalty may truly be said t be characteristic of our nation; how degenerate the:: should we be,|were we to vary from this state of feeling— we, who more than those of any previous generation et Englishmen have reason to admire and respect the personal qualities of our Sovereign, her Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria; if we trace her reign through all itvaried changes—from the times of her greatest to that of her greatest sorrow—in all states and in cur) relation of life she has set a noble aud queenly examp-y----promoting and advancing all that is great and jool "j those about her. These royal qualities make uheartily wish and pray that iier reigu may he sri-atO lengthened, and that we may long enjoy the bonoiits derived from such a sovereign. Yet in the order ot mini'? it is certain that we must eventually change our nuer. and the ceremonies of this day are intended to be sigii'ncant of our determination to transfer an uiiwaveriiii. allegiance to the eldest scion of our Royal l-amily. auo. we gladly celebrate this event—the marriajo ot t["J Prince and Princess of Wales—in tokeu that that regard we now have for our Queen shall lunvatter lv transferred to her descendants. I trust that as these tiee> shall strike deeper and deeper their roots into l:u ' earth, so shall the youthful pair strike deeper m our hearts a loyal affection. And as these trees shal.yeJ; by year raise to heaven a fairer and nobler bead, so >«•• the* youthful pair develope and shew forth tho-e lo' 1 principles in which they have been trained: and tmi' 1,1 them and their descendants the distant colonies ot ! ' Empire shall continue to recognise their royal Governors, for it would be a great and fearful loss to the geiienitiouto come, were the kindly tie which binds us to the Motuer Country to be at any time severed. Xo. let us still continue a part of that great and glorious Empire ot Britain : let us continue to share in that noble work 1 she has done, and has yet to do, that, as in former men boasted " I am a Roman citizen." our children persistently claim a share in the nobility ami glory ot England. It has been said of Englishmen t bat. j'- 1 nation, they are undemonstrative and inclined to V outward quietness the deeper feelings which uia\ > within them; we have, however, to-day broken all this reserve, we have by our actions said most eantly that we echo those expressions of loyalty " have been so fully poured out at home. Let n*. 110 ' leaving tbis spot leave our loyalty here, but taking 11 along with us, let it be an actuating principle ot om and when any trial of its strength may arise, as it possible may for a time be the ease, let us recur to resolutions of this day, and gently judge any tiling « 1 may seem at all harsh or unfair in that power w hu■ ■ ' such a distance, aud with so many difficulties. mI ? rules over us. Ladies and gentlemen, I have done. only wish that some abler person had been tin* appointed to call to your remembrance those thoug which all here are conscious, and more worthily to celt' i the great and good qualities of our Royal Family. The Bishop of Christchurch then offered uM suitable prayer for the occasion, and invoked :j 1 ing on the work, after which the ceremony of pa" l -- the trees commenced. . • After the conclusion of the Bishop's prayer, which all listened to with reverence am v uncovered heads, his Lordship having' repea et Lord's prayer, which was responded to by those i immediate neighborhood, the ceremony ot P , B t the trees was begun. His Honor the Superm <■ descended from the carriage, and procecuei , platform in front of the first tree, where Jus- ' and Mrs. FitzGerald awaited his coming, a' ttel four little girls tastefully dressed 111 red cloth * • and white hats trimmed with white silk, t|itn . were Miss Bealey, Miss FitzGerald, and 3nssc and Charlotte Alport. On reaching his statlol. ' laying his hand on the tree, his Honor saw M" . • would not detain them with a long speech, 11 merely say that as they now proposed to p • tree in commemoration of this interesting e < trusted that as the tree now s „ ro w grow and flourish, so would his Royal Hi» 0 f and increase in honor and prosperity, and

his people. He would, therefore, now name the tree " The Albert Edward Oak." The ladies, and their four youthful aids, having then shovelled in the earth, cheer after cheer arose from the assembled thousands. Mr. Ollivier, chairman of the City Council,then crossed over to the other tree,where stood Mrs. Ollivier and Miss Moorhouse (as proxy for Mrs. Moorhouse, who was prevented from being present by illness), assisted by Miss Ollivier, Miss Gordon, and Misses Kate and Dora Luck. Mr. Ollivier (after requesting the ladies to assist, and after they had tilled in some earth round the tree), then said aloud: Fellow Colonists, I declare this tree, which I name the " Alexandra," tree, to be well and truly planted, and may—here the acclamations of the people quite drowned the speaker's voice, who on a slight lull again named it the " Alexandra," and then hip, hip, hurrah, three such cheers arose as the Ferry road never heard before. Mr. Ollivier called for one cheer more for the Superintendent and the ladies, and a gentleman present, one more for the Chairman of the City Council, both were responded to with enthusiasm, and the ceremony of the day was over and the Albert Edward and Alexandraoaks now stand' the one on the right and the other on the left of the entrance into the town of Christchurch. THE CHILDREN'S TREAT. Along the streets now poured the returning hundreds, the children under their leaders making for Mr. Barnard's large Repository, where great preparations had been made for their reception and entertainment. The long line of stalls on each side had each two or three fair occupants from among the ladies of Christchurch, who, on receipt of a ticket from each youngster (which every child had received on entering) dealt out pies, buns, apples, cake, and lemonade to the hungry and thirsty little ones. Plenty of all sorts of refreshments in every stall met the eye on entering; and the deserted looking tables and empty dishes and trays an hour afterwards showed that full justice had been done to the entertainment. After all were satisfied, a dense mass of little ones congregated round the stalls at the top to try their luck at the wheels of fortune kept by the ladies appointed to preside over that department. About two o'clock the sight presented in the interior of the building (and outside too) was most gratifying and amusing: every child had a book, a gun, a doll, or a toy of some sort. The

sounds of penny-trumpets and rattles and the shouts of laughter could not help satisfying the beholder that the wish to make the children happy for one day had perfectly succeeded. Great credit is due to Mr. Barnard for the handsome manner in which he acted on this occasion. His unsparing efforts to please and oblige a'l deserve the cordial thanks of the public generally.

The procession kept no regular order as to precedence or place on returning through the streets. The printers struck off through Cashel street; they halted at the 'Press' office; a few words were spoken, and three cheers were given for the 'Press;' and then they proceeded to the ' Canterbury Standard' office, where three cheers were also given; then round to the ' Lyttelton Times' office, where the same thundering salute was given and one cheer more, when they separated after drinking the health of the Prince and Princess of Wales, and each departed to witness or join in the sports.

THE SPOUTS. One of the most interesting features of the day for adults was the rural sports. There was the greasy pole, with a leg of mutton. The best climber we believe got £2 as a prize, in addition to his mutton. A soaped pig was next started, and secured after a vigorous and laughable race. Then there were races, and putting the stone, and wrestling, &c. A foot race for boys, 100 yards, was won by a boy called Hawley. A foot race for adults, also 100 yards, was won by Mr. Martelli, one of the swiftest runners, we should say, in New Zealand. Time, ten seconds. A hurdle race, with four leaps, three feet high each, was contested by about a dozen competitors. Distance, 200 yards. It was won by a Mr. Eodgers. The greasy pole climbing was won by a man called Waters. A second 200 yards hurdle race was tried, but not carried out. Grinning through the horse collar was begun by a person named Vincent we believe, and he was proceeding to exhibit his powers, standing on a cask of beer, when he received a gentle push, and himself, collar, and cask were all prostrated; he righted himself, and the cask was upended speedily. And that was all of the grinning through the collar. People seemed to think it a farce, when all present were on the broad grin with jokes and fun. A heavy shower of rain came on, but nowise daunted, competitors for putting the stone stepped forward, and whilst making up a book for this, a very good flat race was run. There were sixteen competitors. The distance was 200 yards. First prize, £3; second, £1. The first prize was won by a young gentleman called Thompson; the second by a Mr. Fowler. This was a very good race, the ease with which Thompson came in first out of sixteen, shows him to be a first-class runner. Rain now descended for about ten minutes plentifully, but the putting the heavy stone commenced, and after some good play, was won by Mr. McLeod. First prize, £2; and Mr. Carmichel second prize, £1. A second round was begun for £1, barring the last winner of course, and was won by Mr. Coleman, J one of the C.Y.F.B. A wrestling match was now proposed, Cumberland style. Prize, £2. Four entered, drew lots, and two pairs engaged. Th e winners then tried together, and after some clever play, Cowan won. A second match was got up for £1, and four entered, which was finally won by Mathews. As it was now getting dark, the sports broke up. Much fun and jollity prevailed, but not one single row or fight did we witness throughout the day. All seemed determined to amuse and be amused.

« ILLUMINATIONS AND FIREWORKS. The whole town was brilliantly illuminated, and to give details in full would fill our entire columns; we can only therefore mention the few which chiefly attracted attention. Mr. Alport's laughable transparency of Neptune and the Royal wedded pair was cleverly done. Mr. Oake's V.R. and star of colored lamps showed well. Messrs. Cook and Ross' transparency and motto, with the Danish and English emblems, was neat and appropriate. Mr. Tribe's handsome transparency of the royal wedded pair, supported by Mr. Ritchie's well lighted shop window, and Mr. Hobb's transparency, Prince of Wales' feather, three stars and shield and " Ich dien u " rivalled the opposite side of the street, Baldwin's block, which had several very excellent transparencies of Danish and English crests, red, white, and blue, &c., the whole forming a central spot of attraction. The ' Times' printing office and Coker's Commercial Rooms also attracted particular notice. The transparencies were chaste and appropriate. The seven transparencies or the ' Times' office, and the Queen's and the Prince and Princess' portraits in Coker's were very good. Fisher's, in High street, was very tastefully decorated with flags and evergreens, and the transparency of the Prince's plume looked neat and chaste. Peacock & Co.'s, Tompkin's, Moss's, Nathan's, and Bradford House had very handsome transparencies. Mr. Ollivier's figure of Britannia was commanding, and, from being uncommon and well lighted, it attracted considerable notice. Mr.

Barnard's repository was most beautifully decorated inside with flags, flowers, and evergreens, and at night a chaste transparency of A. A., crown and feather, with " Ich dien " was illuminated over the doorway. Mr. McPherson had a very handsome transparency of a star with rose thistle and shamrock in centre. The White Hart Hotel was covered with branches and evergreens, and at night displayed a transparency, the same as Mr. Alport's, of Neptune and the royal pair. We noticed several beautiful transparencies, but all of the same sort, crowns, stars, and feathers. One rather quaint conceit arrested the eye opposite Bethel Ware's, a window reflecting considerable light on the road without any lamps being visible. It was Swinbourne's Photographic studio, where screens were so placed as to shade the rest of the room, and at the extreme end a view of a New Zealand residence, with native shrubs and plants, was depicted on canvas. On one side stood a statue, pointing to a large Irish harp and Crown in green and gold. The lamps and candles, mostly hid from view by the screens, threw a strong and clear light on these, which, from the dark street, had a pleasing, artistic, and rather theatrical offect. Bethel Ware's was hung with Chinese lanterns of all colors along the

entire front of the verandah, and showed well. It was tastefully and almost gorgeously showey throughout the day, with stars, plumes, and flags. Mottos in very large characters, including " England's future lung," were in ordinary use, and some small neat transparencies also showed very well. Mr. Woods, saddler, next to Nathan's, Sir. Angus, saddler, and Mr. Edgars, opposite, attracted attention. Mr. Edgars' transparency was Cupid seated on a cabbage with a pair of shears in his hand, as if just going to commence cutting. Barretts' had two neat Prince's feathers, which showed well, being in a rather dark neighbourhood. The British Hotel, Mrs. lverr's, Ivirby's, and a great many others were well lighted. The fireworks came off at 9 o'clock, and lasted till near 11 o'clock. They certainly surpassed our conception of what could be manufactured in this province. The crowd seemed well satisfied, for, at the announcement that all was over, they gave three cheers, and separated. We are extremely well pleased to record that no serious accident occurred, no quarrelling took place, and not a drunkard could be seen throughout the entire day; and further, no man was brought up | before the Resident Magistrate next morning. Peace, happiness, and merriment seemed to pervade and animate all ranks and all ages. It was indeed a day of real harmony—a genuine holiday. The festivities wound up last night with a public ball, which was attended by about 150 persons. At the time of going to press dancing was proceeding with a vigour which was quite refreshing to witness in this Dundreary age.

Fireworks. — The fireworks ordered for the the Lyttelton holiday have arrived per Geelong, and with them Mr. Prescott, of the Dunedin Vauxhall Gardens, and late of Cremorne Gardens, Melbourne. They are to be displayed on Monday evening, and from the reputation earned by Mr. Prescott as a pyrotechnist of the first-class, we have no doudtthat they would well repay a visit to Port.