GIGANTIC CROWDS

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LXXIII, 13 June 1939, Page 5

GIGANTIC CROWDS

DRIVE THROUGH NEW YORK nRING DAY FOR TIIEIII MAJESTIES NEW YORK. 11th June. Estimates of the gigantic crowds which yesterday hailed Their Majesties In New York give a total of 3.500.000 just on half the population of the city. Both the King and Quene looked very tired, but the King’s -fatigue was the

more noticeabl.e being even evident in the weary manner in which he waved to the crowds. In the drive through New York the Queen wore a powder blue dress and cape, a blue hat tilted to the right, long white gloves, and suede shoes. The King was in formal morning dress, and carried a grey topper.

All the available policemen—more than 13,000 —aided by firemen and war veterans, were taxed to the utmost to destrain the crowds. They were not disorderly, but just interested and curious, and kept tryinjj to press closer to get a better view. BEAT LINDBERGH’S WELCOME The parade avoided Broadway, which is New York’s traditional route, owing to the danger of something heavy dropping from the high buildings, but there was plenty of ticker tape and confetti just the same; in fact, officials said that it was a greater welcome than that accorded to Colonel Lindbergh, New York’s previous high spot. Spede was reduced to ten miles an hour at the suggestion of the King, so as to give the crowds a better view. This threw the programme for the entire day nearly an hour behind schedule. Their , Majesties arrived at the World’s Fair soon after noon. They were welcomed by Mr Grover Whalen. ; president of the Fair, as they passed through the streets of the Fair and were given an ovation. They had lunch in the Federal building, where a composite army, navy and marine band played “God Save the King.” Their Majesties visited the Irish, Canadian, Rhodesian, Australian, New Zealand and British pavilions. On the return motor journey to Hyde Pork, the President’s private home, unforeseen crowds lined the roads en route, the rank of people in places being twenty or more deep. Gentle rain was falling when the visitors arrived at Hyde Park, in contrast with the intense heat in New York. As the Queen alighted from the car Mrs Roosevelt said, “My dear, you must be tired. . . .”