TRIBAL TRIBUTE.

Northern Advocate, 21 October 1919, Page 4

TRIBAL TRIBUTE.

GENERAL RUSSELL WELCOMED ROTORUA, Oct. 20. The Arawa tribe gave a reception to General Sir Andrew Russell and Lady and Mis s Russell on Saturday afternoon. There was a large gathering of Europeans and Maoris, including many soldiers, who were specially invited. The weather was fine. The guests were received with customary songs of welcome f war dances and poi play. Several chi<->fs spoke eulogising General Russell's leadership, especially referring to his care and consideration of the Maori soldiers. The speakers referred to the traditional loyalty of the Arawas, declaring their readiness again to go to war for the Empire should necessity arise The g-eneral was presented with a valuable feather mat. In reply, Sir Andrew said that what touched him most was their reference to the care he took of their young mm at the front. It was the* duty of anyone in authority, howover, to look after those under him. He had seen their young men on Ge/lipoli, and they had always been cheerful and of good spirit. He had not forgotten those left behind in France and Gallipoli, of whom it might be said: "He being dead yet speaketh." What they said was that victory had been gained by the common devotion and unity of all.