OUR NEW GOVERNOR.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXVI, Issue 9369, 20 May 1889, Page 11

OUR NEW GOVERNOR.

ENTHUSIASTIC WELCOME.

PRESENTATION OF ADDRESSES. Tub formal reception of His Excellency the Governor, the Earl of Onslow, and the Countess of Onslow, took place on Monday morning, April 22, at half-past nine. TIIK CROWD. Although the weather was threatening, ( j showers had fallen early in the morn- -.,(,- Queen-street, was thronged with people, especially opposite the platform at the head of the wharf, where some three or four thousands had assembled. The windows of the various buildings which commanded a view of the ceremony were all occupied by eager spectators, while 'numerous photographers were posted at various points of vantage for the purpose of securing photographs of the proceedings. The crowd was kept in check by a number of mounted troopers and a large detachment of police, under the charge of Ingjlector Broham, while Mr. Crowther acted as City Marshal. Gt-AKD OF HONOUR. In front of the platform the guard of honour was drawn up. They consisted of 100 volunteers from the Hamilton encampment, chiefly Auckland Navals with detachment* of I'onsonby and Waitemat-a Navals, and wore under the command of Captain Parker and Lieutenants Smith and G errant. The Garrison Band, under Bandmaster Hunter was also present. PLATFORM INVITATIONS. The following is a list of those who were invited to seats on the platform:—Sir George Grey, K.C.8., Councillors W. Crowther, E. Cooper, It Goldie. P. Dignan, It F. Evans, Chas. At kin, J. M. Lennox, Jus. Davios, J. J. Holland, J. W. Hewson, J. Trenwith, John Grey, W. H. Smith. Robert Farrell, J. Swales, Charles Laver, J. Paterson, V. Warren ; the following consuls : — Mr. D. B. Cruickshank (France, Chili, and Hawaii), Mr. Johansen (Denmark), Mr. Hermann Brown (Germany), Mr. Connelly (United States America)", Mr. Comisky (Italy), Mr. H. P. Barber (Sweden and Norway), Mr. 11. Rees George (Portugal), Mr. Masey (Belgium) : Messrs. 11. Hobbs, M.H.R., F. Lawry, M.H.R., Hon. B. Mitchelson, M.H.K., Me'ssis. W. I*. Moat. M.H.R., K. Monk, M.H.R., F. J. Moss, M.H.R. ; T. Thompson, M.H.R. : Justice Gillies: H. C. Brewer, Registrar : F. J. W. Gaseoyne, Sheriff; Dr. talcs, R.M. ; Mr. Clendon, R.M. ; M. Niecol, Chairman Harbour Board : J. M. Brigham. Secretary Harbour Board; Win. Morgan, Mayor, Newmarket: 0. E. Button, Mayor, Birkenhead : H. B. Sealey, Mayor, Parnell : S. J. Ambury, Mayor, Newton ; J. H. Upton, Chairman Board of Education ; Sir G. M. O'Korke, M.H.R. ; Hon. Col. Haultain : Revs. Dr. Cowie, Bishop of Auckland ; Dr. Luck, Roman Catholic Bishop of Auckland ; Messrs. E. A. Mackechnie, President Society of Arts : Wm. Ait ken. Vice-President Society of Arts ; Dr. Campbell. Vice-President Society of Arts ; Messrs. F. .1). Feu ton, VicePresident Choral Society ; R. Tudehope, President Trades and Labour Council : Cape. Colbeck, Chairman Chamber of Commerce : dpi. Morton, ship Pleiades: Capt. Glazebrook, ship Alastor ; Mr. E. Hesketh, VicePresident Auckland Law Society ; Sir F. Whitaker ; Messrs. Thos. Cotter, City Solicitor ; J as. Coates, City Banker ; G. Price, Dr. Honeyman; Messrs. L. D. Nathan, President Auckland Racing Club ; Edward Hartley. J. L. Holland, J. Simons, Art Gallery Hanging Committee ; Sir W. Fox, Mr. J. C. Firth, Captain Davenev, Chas. La Roche, W. S. Aldis, J. A. Pond, W. Berry, A. E. Isaacs, A. G. Horton, I). L. Murdoch, W. Kensington, P. Hayman, F. C. Ewington, 11. C. B.irstow; Hons. P. Dig-nan, Dr. Pollen, W. Swauson, M.L.C.'s: Commander Fredericks, H.M.S. Dart: ExMayors Clark and Prime; Mr. S. Jackson, Dr. Laishley, Mr. Theo. Cooper; Revs. A. Carrick and D. Bruce, Presbyterian ; Rev. E. Best, Wesleyan ; Rev. J. Chew, Congregational ; Rev. T. Spurgeon, Baptist; Rev. A. J. Smith, Primitive Methodist ; Chairmen of the Arch Hill Road Board, Mount Eden Read Board, Eden Terrace Road Board, Remuera Road Board.

ARRIVAL OF THE VICE-REGAL FARTV. Shortly before half-past nine nine the vice-regal party left the Grand Hotel in two carriages, in the first of which was His Excellency the Earl of Onslow, the Countess of Onslow, Mr. A. E. Devore (Mayor of Auckland) and Mrs. Devore: and in the second Captain Saville (the Governor's Aide-de-Camp) and Colonel Hume (Inspector of Volunteers). The route taken was down Shortland-street, through Custom-street West, Little Queen-street, and Quay-street. From Quay-street the party drove into. Queen-street and through the triumphal arch up to the platform. Upon their arrival the guard of honour presented arms, while those on the platform rose and the band played the National Anthem. His Worship the Mayor conducted the Countess of Onslow up to the covered dais, and was followed by His Excellency the Governor, accompanied by the Mayoress. They were followed by Captain Sarille and Colonel Hume. The Right Rev. Dr. Cowie (Bishop of Auckland) and His Honor Mr. Justice Gillies also occupied seats of honour on the dais. COSTUMES. His Excellency the Governor was dressed in the First-class Civil Service uniform, while his Aide-de-camp, Captain Saville, wore the uniform of Captain of the West Kent Yeomanry. The Countess of Onslow wore a grey silk dress brocaded with white flowers, and a handsome white silk panel down the side; dainty white lace bonnet, with pale pink roses; tan coloured shoes and gloves of the same colour. On her arm she carried a handsome fawn cloak. The Mayoress wore a ruby silk trimmed with moire, bonnet to match, and black plush mantle trimmed with jet. the .MAYOR'S ADDRESS. The Mayor, addressing Lord Onslow, welcomed him to New Zealand, assuring him of the great gratification which his arrival had given to the citizens at large, who considered his selection of Auckland as the port of his arrival a most appropriate one, since Auckland was one of the first settled towns in the colony. His Lordship had arrived in this colony at a somewhat fortunate time, when our prospects seemed brighter than they had been for ' some time past. The long-continued depression seemed to bo at an end, and they hoped that during His Excellency's term of office there would be a much-needed increase of commerce and population. THE MUNICIPAL ADDRESS. Mr. P. A. Philips, Town Clerk, read the j address, as follows : — I To His Lordship the Right Honourable the Earl of Onslow, K.C.M.G., Governor of New Zealand, &c. May it please your Lordship,— Ihe citizens of Auckland desire to respectfully welcome your Lordship to our city, on this your first arrival in New Zealand. " We have heard of the great esteem in which you fW w . Great lir 'tain, and Her Most haul US i JeSt . Queen Victoria has greatly honoured the colony in appointing you to be J,, ( '°™r. JVe trust that daring your tenure of office this youn- H „d vigorous colony may continue to.increase and prosper, and we hope your Lordship's residence in New Zealand may be prolonged and pleasant. We also respectfully welcome the arrival with jour _Excellency of the Countess of Onslow * d family, and hope that you and they may be frequent visitors to Auckland and residents among us. With loyalty and respect we, on behalf of the citizens of Auckland, subscribe ourselves, A. E. T. Devour Mayor; P. A. Philips, Town Clerk. The Mayor : In begging your Lordship's acceptance of this address, I do so with the leeling that all the sentiments contained in it will be echoed throughout the colony. (Applause.) J The address, which was handsomely illuminated, was presented to His Excellency amidst applause.

SPEECH BY THE GOVERNOR. Lord Onslow, in replying, said: Your "orsnip,—l tender you my heartiest thanks or the cordial welcome bestowed on behalf ot yourself and your fellow-citizens of Auck'anci on , my i anding on the shores of this great colony, to the government of which it nas pleased Her Most Gracious Majesty to appoint me. I learn with especial gratifi»non , at the immediate prospects of New th,n arare , looked upon with more favour wan hey have been for some time past, com y - y° urselves and by the commercial ">mm«nity in the mother country, which I S ,St left. I feel convinced that tho Pint of enterprise which has distinguished A'ar PaS u' cou P led wifcn the bounties which jure has bestowed upon these islands, of i leallse thafc increase in the prosperity hone .° Dy which you are Phased to offie« ~ be coin cidenb with my tenure of of l 'l (^PP lau I beg to add, on behalf tude f nslow . and our children, our gratiVqup «?i\ kind expressions contained in ' " address. As you have presented this

address to me with a few introductory words, you will, perhaps, Mr. Mayor, allow me to say a few words beyond formal expressions. I feel that lam in somewhat of an anomalous position, because, although I have in my pocket a commission from Her Majesty the Queen appointing me Governor and Commander-in-Chief over the colony of New Zealand and its dependencies, yet that commission does not supersede the one issued to Sir William Jervois until such time as 1 have been sworn in at the seat of Government, and therefore I accept this address as a tribute of personal regard rather than as an expression of that loyalty which I am sure you all feel toward the representative of the sovereign, ami which I have no doubt, I will experience when 1 return at a future date, and come amongst you as Her Majesty's representative. You may perhaps be surprised that I should have landed at Auckland rather than at the seat of Government, but when I was first appointed to the ollice which I have the honour to hold, I, in the spirit in which I propose to hold ollice, that of a constitutional Governor, looked round for advice, and I found that advice from one of the most popular and highly esteemed men in England —your Agent-General, Sir Francis Dillon Bell (applause), who advised me to take the largest ship, ami follow the example set by that veteran colonial Governor, the Marquis of Nornmnby, who landed at Auckland on the iii'd December, 187-1. I must ask you to forgive me if 1 defer making any allusion to the immediate prospects of New Zealand, and if I also defer any remarks upon the duties which 1 up-

prebend belong to the otlice of a Governor, or the maimer in which I hope, with God's blessing, to carry out these duties, until 1 have an opportunity of speaking as Governor after the duo assumption of that office. 1 will only say that my aim and ambition will be to imitate Her Gracious Majesty in the noble and extremely able manner in which she carries out the duties of a constitutional monarch, and that I may win the esteem of the people of New Zealand by an impartial discharge of the duties of a Governor. (Applause.) The Mayoress presented a handsome bouquet of (lowers to Lady Onslow. AOOKKSS KKO.M TIIK .MAORIS. A number of Maoris of rank were present on the platform, and two of these now advanced— Paora Tuhacre, of Orakci, and Honana te Maiolm, of Tawhiao's tribe (the Ngatimahuta), the latter being one of the relatives of Tawhiao. Major Gaseoyne introduced Paora, who read an address, of which the following is a translation : — Auckland. April '22nd, ISS9. Welcome by the Chiefs of the province of Auckland to His Excellency the Governor of New Zealand : — Ist. Welcome. Governor Lord Onslow. Welcome, thou stranger from afar. Welcome, 0 descendant of nobility. Welcome through the word of Queen Victoria to come hither. where lies the Covenant of the Treaty of Waitangi to protect its people, the two races, English ami Maori. Though other Governors have come before you, and others Mill come after, there is but one duty, to guard the Treaty of Waitangi that it be not cist away. '2nd. Our fathers, the Chiefs, who welcomed former Governors and English people to Waitemata, have died, and we, the children, who are living now, express the wishes of the chiefs of the two provinces, that you lie persuaded to stay in Auckland. This town is a big one and fair to look upon, a warm climate, with tine scenery, level land to promenade upon for Governors who have descended from high standing. '['he wish of the chiefs of Waikato, Taupe. Rotorua, Tauranga. Hauraki, Kaipara, the Bay of Islands, and the surrounding districts, is, that our European friends join us in asking you to live with us in Auckland, because here it has been the seat of Government, the residing house is here, and will you renew the old order of things? 3rd. The great desire of the chiefs of this island : That you live amoifst your Maori people : the. House of Representatives, that it may be brought back to Auckland again. 4th. We pray that your Excellency give your regard to your Maori tribes : that you protect them under your Government, as we trust those who come after your Excellency shall do. May God save the. C'ueen and the Royal Family. May God protect you all. From your Excellency's friends who welcome you.—[Then ; follow the signatures.] j

Lord Onslow, replying to this address, said : I am particularly interested to receive this welcome from Her Majesty's Maori subjects. I am glad to think that I come amongst you at a time when everything is at peace between you and your fellow-colonists from England. There was a time—a dark page in the history of New Zealand—when Governors coming here were unable to hold out the hand of peace to the Maoris, but that is all past now—we are friends again, and you are secure in the possession of your rights and your lands. Her Majesty the Queen, when I had the honour of seeing her before I left for New Zealand, said that she took more interest in her Maori subjects than in almost any other of the varied peoples over whom she ruled. (Applause). I am greatly pleased that I come amongst you with a message of peace, and I sincerely hope that peace and plenty may spread through the land, and amongst the -Maori people. (Cheers). His Excellency's reply was rendered into Maori by Major Gascoyne. The Countess of Onslow was then introduced to the chiefs, Paora Tuhaere and j Honana te Maioha, with both of whom she cordially shook hands. After this the Mayor called for three cheers for His Excellency the Governor, which were given with great enthusiasm, and one cheer more for the Countess, the crowd heartily responding with three. THE PROCESSION". Immediately the proceedings on the platform terminated, His Excellency, with Lady Onslow, and His Worship the Mayor and Mrs. Devore, entered the carriage which was in waiting at the steps, ami the procession, marshalled by Mr. Crowther, marched off, headed by the band and the guard of honour. The Governor's carriage was preceded and followed by mounted constables. The second carriage contained Captain Saville, aide-de-camp to His Excellency, Colonel Hume, Mr. P. A. Philips, town clerk, and Commander Fredericks, of 11.M.5. Dart. The third carriage contained Lieutenant-Colonel Dignan, who represented Colonel Shepherd, ollicer commanding the district, but who as a city councillor took his seat in their carriage. The fourth and fifth carriages were also occupied by City Councillors, and the procession was brought up by a number of private carriages. The lino of march was through Queen - street, Wellesley - street, Symonds-street, and Waterloo Quadrant, to theentiance to Government House, opposite the Northern Club. A very great concourse of people assembled here by the time the procession reached the gates. j THE SCENE EN ROUTE. The appearance of Lower Queen-street as the procession moved off, was very pleasing. Notwithstanding the showery and unfavourable weather, a large concourse of people were assembled at the entrance to the wharf and opposite the platform, behind where the guard of honour was drawn up; and as the Governor and Lady Onslow entered the carriage they were greeted with rousing cheers, His Excellency and the Countess repeatedly bowing. All the stores and hotels in the vicinity were occupied by sightseers, who from the windows commanded a view of the route, and they also cheered loudly. The triumphal arch Mas gaily decorated with Hags, while a line of flags was stretched across the street. The Sailors' Home and Harbour Board offices were each surmounted by a Union Jack, while many of the mercantile establishments and nearly all the hotels on the line hoisted the Union Jack. At the Victoria Arcade, corner of Fort-stroet, Mr. Foulds, draper, displayed a Union Jack, flanked by bannerettes. Along the verandah were the words, in white letters on a red ground, " Welcome to Our Heart and Home." The legend was flanked by Masonic symbols. The verandah posts were decorated with evergreens. At the American Consulate, in the same block, were to be seen floating from an upper window the Stars and Stripes. A line of flags was suspended across Queenstreet, between Messrs. Phillips and Sonsand Porter and Co. 's ironmongery establishment. At the corner of Durham and Queen streets, Mr. T. Harle Giles' educational chambers were nicely decorated with evergreens and garlands of roses and flowers, with circle in centre, flanked by Union Jacks. Along the front were the words, executed in rice on a red ground, "Auckland "Welcomes Lord Onslow !" Mr. T. B. Hill, chemist, had his verandah tastefully adorned with bannerettes. As the procession opened Darbystreet, the fine display of flags and bannerettes on the fire tower of the Auckland Fire Brigade station could be seen. There were two streams of flags on either hand, with a flag on the turret, and each successive storey was decorated at the angles with bannerettes. It had a very pretty effect, and Superintendent Hughes is to be

congratulated on his display. In Wellesleysfreet .East the Free Public Library and Municipal Buildings were gaily decorated at every pinnacle, while the city flagstaff in the Albert Park was ablaze with bunfc-

ing. At tho various coigns of vantage along the route to Government House, the crowds cheered the viceregal party, and Lord Onslow courteously bowed his acknowlodgments. THE MASONIC KKCKI'TION.

The arrangements made for the reception of His Excellency by the Freemasons were admirable. The brethren of tho three Constitutions, assembled in the Freemasons' Hall, shortly after nine o'clock, and here they were suitably arranged in their respective orders and lodges, and proceeded to Government House, lining the entrance in open order up to the verandah. The muster of Masons was hardly up to expectation, but there were about 150 present, and we were pleased to notice that some of the country lodges, especially Pukekoho, had a very fair representation, the members arriving just in time to take part in the reception at Government House. The entrance through the verandah to the house was lined by the District and Provincial Grand Lodge officers. The English Grand Lodge was represented by Brother G. S. Graham, D.G.M. ; Brother W. Lodder, D.D.G.M. ; Brother 11. G. Wade, D.G.S. ; Brothers Rev. C. M. Nelson and W. Tebbs (the latter also appearing as Past Grand Chaplain of Somerset), and Brothers Clark and Warren. The Irish Constitution was represented by Brothers G. P. Pierce, P.G.M., Brothers Powley, Mitchell, Dr. Kidd, and A. Brock. The Scottish Constitution was represented by Brother tho Hon. Sir Frederick Whitaker, P.G.M., and Brother M. Nieeol, D.P.G.M., the other officers of the Grand Lodge taking up their positions with their respective craft lodges.

The bands and troops marched past Government House without. stopping, and when His Excellency's carriage arrived a halt Mas made, and the vice-regal party having alighted, were greeted with cheers, and Lord Onslow was at once received on the verandah by the District and Provincial Grand Masters, and Brother G. S. Graham advancing addressed His Excellency. lie said that to him had been entrusted the pleasing duty of presenting an address from the Freemasons of Auckland. He then read the address, which was handsomely bound in blue and gold and ornamented with Masonic emblems. The text was as follows :— To the Right Worshipful Brother the Right Honorable the Earl of Onslow. P.G.S.W. of Kit-land: Right Worshipful Sir and Brother,—On behalf of the Freemasons of Auckland, we beg to oiler you a cordial and fraternal welcome to New /.caland. We hail with great pleasure the advent of so distinguished a brother in Freemasonry as yourself, and we cannot but feel that your residence amongst us will tend to promote the welfare and prosperity of the craft throughout the colony. With hearty good wishes for tin; health and happiness of yourself. Lady Onslow and family, and trusting that, your sojourn amongst us may be every way agreeable and enjoyable. —We have the honour to subscribe ourselves, Right Worshipful Sir, vours trulv and fraternally — G. S. Graham, D.G.M., "E.G., G. P. Pikkck, P.G.M., I.C, Fkkok. Whitakkk, P.G.M., S.C.

His Lohoshu' read the following reply :—

Worshipful Brethren, has afforded me sincere pleasure to receive in your name, representing as you do the important District Grand Lodge of Auckland, so cordial and fraternal a welcome on landing on the shores of New Zealand. it shows, if proof were wanting, that brotherly love, the first principle of Freemasonry, is as strong in this important province of the Empire as in the heart of the Grand Lodge of England itself. As a Grand Warden of that Lodge it will be a pleasure to me to express to his Royal Highness, the Grand Master, the satisfaction which 1 feel in learning that Freemasonry in New Zealand Woes not yield in vigour, in prosperity, or in loyalty to any of her sister colonies in Australasia.Onslow. Auckland, April 22nd, 1880.

The Rev. C. M. Nelson then advanced to His Excellency to present the address from the .Mark Master Masons. He said in the absence of the P.G.M., Brother F. W. K. Dawson, who was on duty at the Easter encampment, it was his pleasing duty as D.P.O.M. to present this address from the Mar* Master Masons of Auckland.

To the R.W. Bro. the lion, the Earl of Onslow, K.C.M.G., T.G.S.W. Right Worshipful Sir and Brother, It affords us great pleasure, on behalf of the Mark Master Masons of Auckland, 13.C, to welcome you to New Zealand. The great interest you have always taken in Mark Masonry, and the exalted position you occupy in connection with the degree, is already well known to and highly appreciated by us. You come amongst us. worshipful sir, not as a stranger, but as a brother, who has made such a mark in our order as can never be effaced, and whilst we honour you as the representative of our Gracious Majesty the Queen, we would beg you to accept our most sincere and fraternal regards as a representative of that Grand Lodge of Marie Master Masons of which we have the honour to be humble but loval members. — (Scl.) F. W. E. Dawson, P.G.M.; C. M. Nelson, D.P.G.M. ; W. P. Moat, P.G.1)., P.G. Treasurer; T. W. Kitt, P.G. Swd. Br., P.G. Secretary.

Lord Onslow replied as follows : —

Worshipful Brethren, —1 have received your friendly and fraternal address with feelings of no small gratitude. To be welcomed, not as a stranger, but as a brother, in a land where I am not personally known, adds another proof of the value to all men of being included within our degree. Cemented by tins common bond, 1 am led to hope that my brethren of the Craft, who are so numerous, so influential, and so widely spread throughout the colony, will be favourably predisposed towards my humble efforts worthily to represent Her Gracious Majesty. That they will not readily mark whatever may be done amiss, but will rather seek to interpret all actions in the spirit suggested by the principles inculcated by our Order.— Onslow. Auckland, April 22, ISSU. Lord Onslow then retired into Government House, and the brethren, reforming procession, returned to Freemasons' Hall, where, after disrobing, they separated for the day. AT THE RACES. The Governor and Lady Onslow attended the races at Ellerslie on April 22. Mr. W. Percival, the secretary of the Auckland Racing Club, had made arrangements that the carriage in which the party were seated should be brought along the course proper to a point opposite the lawn ; but by some misapprehension it was taken under tho carriage-way at the back of the stand, and Lord and Lady Onslow entered by the terrace. They were received by the stewards of the club, and conducted to the grandstand, amidst the cheers of the assembly, the band playing the National Anthem. His Excellency and party remained on the course until tho steeplechase had been run. A scene of considerable interest took place at their departure. The lawn gates having been thrown open, Lady Onslow was conducted by Mr. J. M. Clark, president of the club, to the carriage, which was drawn up on the course proper opposite the grandstand. Her Ladyship and Lord Onslow having taken their seats, enthusiastic cheers were given, and the carriage drove off, the Mayor, Mr. Devore, accompanying the vice-regal party. MASONIC BANQUET TO LORD ONSLOW. Some time ago, when it became definitely known that the Earl of Onslow, G.S. Warden of England, was on his way to Now Zealand in the capacity of Governor of tho colony, and that his port of arrival would be Auckland, the Masonic brethren determined to giro the illustrious brother a cordial and fraternal reception on his arrival, and when Lord Onslow reached Australia a cable message was sent to him inviting'his presence to a Masonic banquet on his arrival in Auckland. His Lordship promptly and frankly accepted the invitation, and the banquet took place on April 3. Tho decorating committee consisted of Brothers Hewson, Carlaw, Wine, Coom, and Olive, and admirably indeed they carried out the duties entrusted to them, for the hall was made a picture of beauty. THE 15ANQUET. The banqnetting committee consisted of the Board of General Purposes of the District Grand Lodge, E.C. This committee consists of Dr. Dawson, Rev. C. M. Nelson, W. Lodder, C. La Roche, Esam, Coom, Windsor, J. P. Clark, Carlaw, Hewson, Rev. W. Tebbs, Wright, Hatswell, and others. Punctually at eight p.m. on April 23, His Excellency Lord Onslow, accompanied by Captain Saville, A.D.C., arrived, and His Excellency was escorted to tho post of honour by Brother G. S. Graham, D.G.M., Brother Sir F. Whitaker, P.G.M., S.C., and Brother G. P. Pierce, P.G.M., I.C. Brother Graham presided, and on his right was Lord Onslow (the guest of the evening), Brother Sir F. Whitaker, Rev. C. M, Nel-

son, and Brother M. Niccol. On his left were Brother G. P. Pierce, Brother the Rev. W. Tebbs, and. Brother W. Lodder. The vice-chairs were occupied by Brothers Clark and Skinner. There were about 140 brethren seated at the tables in regalia, and on the stage wore about SO ladies. Brother B. J. Esam officiated as director of ceremonies and toast master, and performed his duties iii a most satisfactory man nor. ARRIVAL OF LADY ONSLOW. At half-past nine o'clock, just before the speaking commenced, the Countess of Onslow arrived, and was received by the brethren upstanding. She was escorted to the platform, and took her seat beside Miss Whitaker, Mrs. Graham, and Mrs. Pierce. THE TOASTS. The Chairman proposed the toast of Her Majesty the Queen, which was loyally drunk, the band playing the National Anthem. The Chairman then proposed the toast of "The Prince of Wales, Grand Master of England anil Grand Patron of Irish and Scottish Freemasons." He said that they all experienced the care and recognition that they had received from the Grand Lodge of England presided over by His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales. This was of course so far as the English Constitution was concerned, but lie was also patron of the other Orders, and his loyalty and fealty extended to the craft amongst the whole human race, The interests of Masonry here were as carefully looked after by their Grand Master as if they were not 10,000 miles away from where he resides. The toast was responded to with Masonic honors, the band playing "God Bless tho Prince of Wales." Brother Graham, on rising to propose the toast of the evening, was received with cheers. lie said, Brethren, at my initiation into the mysteries of our ancient order, some .'sl years ago, it never occurred I to me that I should have such an important ! and pleasant duty imposed upon myself as that of having, on behalf of the Freemasons in this province, to propose the toast, which I am about to do. In doing so, 1 trust the brethren of the three constitutions will make all allowances for any errors of omission or commission. We have assembled this evening to welcome , our .noble guest, who is a worker in the ] craft. I cannot help looking back to the earliest recollections I have of Auckland, and comparing the reception we afforded on Monday to that of our first Lieutenant - Governor, Captain llobson, in IS4O. My memory is but that of early childhood, and I think there are some, my seniors, here, who may have to speak this evening, can set me right if those memories of an infantile period are incorrect. However, brethren, 1 give them to you as 1 can. In that early date there was a reception, and the whole of the inhabitants made a special holiday of it, and welcomed with the same loyalty as we do this day the representative of our beloved Queen and country. i cannot say that so far as guard of honour, triumphal arches, or the ladies they could bear comparison with the present; still, they were there ; and though we had not. the excellent band of to-day, and guard, we had a few soldiers and a drummer and titer. If my memory serves me correctly, Governor llobson was so escorted to the tunc of "The King of the Cannibal islands,'' ami the ladies, principally represented by aboriginals, were, though dressed in a primitive manner, still in the fashion of the time. .Brethren, yon may say, " What has this to do with Masonry and the subject It is simply to illustrate that in that early stage there were germs of making this a glorious country —a Britain of the South. The early settlers had their vicissitudes, those remaining amongst us reaping the rewards of their labours. Concurrently with this our Order was established, and has progressed until we have attained that proud position of having District and Provincial Grand Lodges for the throe Constitutions, with interest held conjointly for the benefit of the craft, and whilst emu la ting each other in their working, still do so with all brotherly love and harmony. We see around us to-night the results. We are favoured with the presence of ladies, and especially Lady Onslow, supporting us in our proceedings. Though we have had several Governors heretofore we have not had the privilege to welcome one who has taken such an interest in the craft. You have no doubt noticed as I have the number of farewell banquets given to our illustrious brother before his departure from England, and the expressions of regret which were given, but their loss is our gain. But, brethren, words fail me to express on your behalf our feelings towards him. I can only say we hope his identifying himself with this, the land of our adoption, will be conducive to his and Lady Onslow's health and happiness. He can be fully assured we as Masons will be all ready and willing to assist him with the right hand of fellowship, and with the heartiest good wishes of the craft. I pro. pose the toast of our guest. (Loud cheering).

The toast was responded to with Masonic and musical honours.

The Chairman said he had received a communication from the Grand Lodge of Westland, containing hearty good wishes and welcome to Lord Onslow, and he had also received a similar communication from Lodge To Awamutu.

• Lord O.vsi.ow, on rising to respond to the toast of his health, was received with loud cheers. He said : —Right Worshipful Sir and Brethren. I need hardly tell you how gratified I felt when I learnt of the early steps which you took to welcome me on my arrival as a Mason, for although I was assured of your loyalty, and know that when fully invested 1 would not fail to meet with manifestations of loyalty, yet I felt some misgivings as to the manner of the reception which would be given to the humble individual who for the next five years is to do his best to represent Her Most Gracious Majesty in this colony. (Cheers.) When I found such an influential section of the community prepared to accord mo such a welcome, it gave me encouragement to proceed with my task, and it proves, if proof were wanted, how the craft gives welcome help when required. I recollect when I was initiated, 1 asked somo of my elder brethren what was the use of Freemasonry. Of course I understood all about the dinners given at Oxford and Cambridge, but my elders then told me that the time would come when i would appreciate the benefits of belonging to the Masonic body, and brethren that day came to me on the '2-Jnd of April, 1889, in the cordial welcome which I. received from you and the citizens of Auckland. That cordial welcome and your invitation was followed by one from the Auckland Racing Club, and at their meeting I for the first time saw that ingenious machine you call the totalizator, and if 1 continue on the same favourable terms on which I commenced I shall have no reason to regret my acquaintance with it. (Laughter.) Let mo thank you and the citizens generally for tho great kindness I have been met with. I have met with oilers of sports and amusements from all quarters, but all my life I have been a man of business, and my duty is to proceed without delay to the seat of Government and take office. I have scon your magnificent town and harbour, and I learn that it has one characteristic with Wellington in that it posscses a Government House. (Cheers). I think wherever Englishmen are found they will continue tho same whether under the Northern Star or the Southern Cross, and none will be more anxious to lend help to each other than the brethren of the craft. We all know tho great interest which is now being manifested in drawing the mother country and tho colonies together. Let us not overlook one of : these bonds which has for its principles good fellowship and federation, which are those of the symbols and emblems of Freemasonry, and which shall combine throughout the whole empire of our Empress Queen. (Loud and prolonged cheering.) Lord Onslow, on rising to propose the next toast, was received with renewed cheering. The toast was "the Grand Lodges of England, Ireland, and Scotland, and their representatives in this colony." He said : Wearied as you must all be with the sound of my voice ("No, no."), I have to propose this toast. I confess I feel in a somewhat difficult position as a member of the Grand Lodge in proposing what might appear to be my own health. (Laughter.) But I have been at Grand Lodge meetings when this toast was proposed, and when there were fewer to drink ib than those who sat down. However, I obey the commands of the W.M., and ask you to drink the toast of the Grand Lodges and their worthy and able representatives in this colony. (Cheers.)

The toast was acknowledged with Masonic and musical honours.

Brother Graham, on behalf of the District Grand Lodge, E.G., remarked that it was now 12 years since the Grand Lodge was formed in Auckland, He was pleased to see the cordial welcome which had been accorded to their guest, and might add that the District Grand Lodge had risen to success, and had achieved the object for which it was instituted, He thanked them for the manner in which they had responded to the toast.

Brother G. P. Ptktice said as representative of the smallest constitution in New Zealand, it afforded him great pleasure to rise and return thanks. There was one peculiarity about it, however, and that was that it was the first constitution of Freemasonry established in New Zealand, for Lodge Am was the first lodge established, and Sir Frederick Whitaker was its first master. (Cheers.) The fact of its being the first lodge was disputed by the Pacific Lodge in Wellington, but by records which had been exhumed it was now found that the Ara was the first lodge of Freemasons in New Zealand. The Irish constitution, as he said, was the smallest in New Zealand. It had only one Provincial Grand Lodge, and one P.G.M., and ho was not an Irishman. (Laughter.) It afforded him great pleasure to visit the lodges in the South, and he could assure their guest that from Invercargill to Auckland he would find the same loyalty and devotion to Her Majesty, and also to their mother constitutions of the old country. (Cheers.) An abler speaker was to follow him, and without further remarks on his part, he thanked them for the manner in which they had responded to the toast. (Cheers.)

Sir F. Wiiitakkr was received with applause. He had two duties to perform, first to return thanks for the Grand Lodge of Scotland and next for himself as P.G.M. He might say that he had met with every consideration from the Grand Lodge, and the most satisfactory relations existed between the Grand Lodge and the Provincial Grand Lodge. With regard to himself, allusions had been made by Mr. Pierce about his (Sir F. Whi baker) experience as a Mason. He was an English Mason, and he became an Irishman, and now he was a Scotchman, and reference was made to how they got along, but it so happened that the D.G.M. of the English constitution was a Scotchman, his friend Brother Pierce, (he P.G.M. of the Irish Constitution was an Englishman, and he himself, the P.G.M. of the Scotch Constitution, was an Englishman. This showed that they were not exclusive. Whether the Ara or the Pacific Lodge was the oldest was a matter of dispute, but he was the first Englishman who was Master of an Irish lodge in New Zealand. He had now been a Mason since ItSIJS, and if there were any older present lie would like to sec them. (Cheers.) He felt obliged for the manner in which the toast had been responded to, and expressed his great pleasure with, the cordial reception which was always accorded to him not only by his Masonic brethren but by the public of Auckland on all occasions. (Loud cheers.)

Brother M. Ntceor,, 5.P.0.M., &.C., proposed the toast of " The Ladies," and referred to the gratification which they all fell, in having so many of their lady friends present ; above all, in seeing amongst them the Countess of Onslow (cheers) ; and he trusted it was not the only occasion on which they would see her the guest of Auckland, and that they'would see Her Ladyship and Lord Onslow housed in Government House, that commodious establishment which was prepared for them. (Cheers.) Band: "Here's a Health to All Good Lasses." Brother P.M. Brock responded for the ladies in happy terms. The band then played "Auld Lang 1 Syne," and as Lord and Lady Onslow retired they played the National Anthem. This brought the proceedings to a conclusion, and the caterer and managing committees were warmly congratulated on all sides. DINNER AT TILE NORTHERN CLUB. Lord Onslow was entertained to dinner on the 24th of April at the Northern Club. There were about 00 members present. Dr. .1. Logan Campbell (president) presided, and Mr. ..las. Russell (vice-president) occupied the vice-chair. Lord Onslow and Sir Fred. Whitaker were on the right of the chair, and Captain Frederick, of If.M.S. Dart, on the left. The chairman proposed the toast of " The Queen," which was did)' honoured, after which, in an effective speech, he gave the toast of " The Health of Lord Onslow, Lady Onslow, and Family," as follows :— Lord Onslow,We have met here this evening to welcome you to this colony, over which you have been appointed by our Queen to preside as her representative, and we tender you a. most cordial and hearty welcome, dictated by feelings inspired by true loyalty and love of our Queen, as well, sir, as with high respect to yourself—a respect which we feel assured will be deepened as the period of your sojourn amongst us runs its course. We have lead with great interest the declaration of your reasons for accepting the position which you now hold, and we can only sincerely trust that when the time arrives when you have to return to the mother country, you may be able to leave us, satisfied that you have accomplished your mission, and that you will be able to bear testimony that the great colonics of the South Pacific are worthy to hold the place to which they aspire in the British Empire. As regards this colony, we are vain enough to believe it is the brightest jewel in the Crown of England. Nature has been truly bountiful to us. has endowed us with every natural wealth within ourselves; we are rich in mineral products of all kinds, we have a soil the most prolific, and last and not least, a, climate unsurpassed in the world. Time only is wanted to develop her resources, when .New Zealand will take that foremost place which a manifest destiny has marked for her. A country is sometimes only what its population makes it, and I believe that the first element in a population to make its country great is a love for the land wherein it dwells. Now if there is one feature more prominent than any other with which you will b'i impressed as you proceed through the various settlements of New Zealand, it will be the love displayed by the settlers for that particular locality they have chosen for their homes. In every settlement you visit you will be astonished to discover that that particular locality is the picked spot of the colony. l'eradventure, had you first landed at Dunedin, you would have heard from her settlers that in reality Dunodhi was New Zealand, that their climate was temporal with just that severity which produced a hardy and energetic race, that their rich hills and fertile vales were only waiting occupation by these hardy sons of her soil to make the land teem with wealth. And did they not possess scenery in their lakes, and great sounds, and fiords which the world could not rival. Yes, you may go from one end of the colony to the other, but after all Otago was the place ! And then travelling north. 'Christchurch, the City of the Plains, is reached, and there you hear, Ah, yes, Dunedin is all very well, but you know the climate is just a trifle too cold ; and then as far as the other end of the colony, at Auckland, you know it is just a trifle too warm ; but here, here we have the happy medium." And with a satisfied wave of the hand, " Look at our vast sheep runs, and where but in Canterbury can the ploughman walk behind a furrow miles in length without having to turn his team—-we are the granary of New Zealand." Happy Christchurch. And now still wending northward we slip into landlocked Wellington—in more appropriate language probably we are blown in —and there, encircled in steep hills, you sec' the city climbing up them to find footroom for the villa residences of her merchants, levelling down her hill to make great reclamations from the harbour whereon to build great warehouses, but proud of her central position, you hear on all sides. " This is the Empire City ; tee can smile at far away Dunedin and far away Auckland ; we command the colony; we hold it in the palm of our hand, whither you come from wherever you go to, call here you must; we are the corner lot of New Zealand, you cannot go past our door ; here is the seat of Government, this is the centre of the Island ; our future supremacy is secure." And now you arrive at Auckland, and if every place has sung its own praises, none the less— haps a great deal more— Auckland sing hers. And has she not just cause? Upon her many hills she sits a queen, the Corinth of the South; upon her isthmus is destined to grow the Babylon city of the Great South Lands of the Pacific ; her stately suburbs will clothe the shores of her picturesque harbour the shores away down her great roadstead, and the adjacent islands, where the navies of many empires may ride in safety. Here, centuries hence, will be fulfilled the prophecy given forth in Froude's " Oceana," a prophecy looking far into the future, and thus couched, " If it lies written in the book of destiny that the English nation has still within it great men who will take a place among the demigods, I can well believe that it will be in the unexhausted soil and spirit-

I ual capabilities of New Zealand that the great English poets, artists, philosophers, statesmen, soldiers, of the future will be born and nurtured." My Lord,-- may, provoke from you a smile to hear us all bepraising outsolves thus throughout the colony, but what were a colonist without love for the land of his adoption. In this love we have the true element of patriotism, which will nerve the hand in case of need ; for if we love our homes we will defend them ; if we ever require to raise our arm the blow will come from the heart, struck pro aria etfocix, and, if needs be, for the Empire. You arrive in this bright colony darkened by a passing cloud of depression—a passing cloud only, which time will lift, and the sunshine of prosperity will brighten all again. We still have a trying ordeal to pass through,which may bear heavil the present generation, for we have the burthen of a debt which, if it is any boast, is the largest debt for its population in the world. It would have been well for us had we taken as a motto that of your ancient house, " FeMina lenle," and gone "slow ahead;" but we went " full speed," and ran into the breakers of debt. With a marvellous thoughtlessness we have in our own day made the colony ready for posterity ; we have in the most courageous manner piped : a happy posterity, will dance. But as for New Zealand not coming to the front and holding the foremost place in the colonies of the empire, be her present trials what they are, or ten times worse, I have never doubted. A land with little more than half a million of people, and callable of supporting twenty ; a land with such unrivalled resources within itself, and the Saxon race to bring them forth, who shall say that our future shall not be even as depicted in the glowing words of "Oceana." No; I, lotone, have never wavered in my belief in New Zealand, and I may be permitted now to repeat what I set down ten years ago in language which many at the time thought high flown, but which every decade the more confirms. And these are the words :—" For this land of which I write is destined to lie the happy pleasure ground of all the great south lands of the Pacific." Lord Onslow, as the mouthpiece of the members of the Northern Club, 1 have to offer you our most cordial and hearty welcome to New Zealand, and we pray you we may be permitted to extend that welcome to Lady Onslow and your family. We pledge your Lordship in a bumper glass. AT THE HOT LAKES. The special train which left Auckland at 11 a.m. on the 25th April reached Oxford at 5.20, and His Excellency's party were at once conveyed in Garter's coach to Okoroire Hot Springs Hotel, where they passed the night, leaving again after breakfast. Both Lord and Lady Onslow expressed themselves as well-pleased with the comfort of the hotel, the capital baths, and the attention they received. The drive to Rotorua was a pleasant one, occasional small showers laying the dust the greater part of the way. Ruapehu was not visible. There were a, good many pheasants along the road, and their Exclleneies were greatly impressed with the beauty of the tree ferns and forest trees. When nearing Rotorua, it became evident that something out of the ordinary was taking place there. Flags were waving, ami a fine triumphal arch with the legend " ffaeremai ! Haeremai.'" (Welcome!) on a white ground was visible over the road. On nearing the Utuhina Bridge, a Maori in full costume, viz., a scarlet shawl round his loins, his head garlanded with leaves, and his hand clasping a taiaha, came forward towards the coach and motioned the driver to stop. At, the same momenta band of about 20 youths, similarly attired, executed a war dance on the bridge, and Dr. Cinders approaching the coach submitted to His Excellency the proposed programme, and requested his permission to its being carried out. This being done, the garlanded youths came gaily to the horses' heads and unharnessed them from the coach, and fastening ropes to the swingle bars and the pole commenced, at a sign from the scarlet shawled M.C., who had now climbed up behind the splashboard, to drag the coach over the bridge. A short distance further a party of fine well-built Maoris, all equally "fulldressed" and armed with guns, seemed prepared to dispute the passage. After a long harangue from the gentleman behind the splashboard, convincing them that the Governor's errand was one of peace, they fired their guns in the air, and executed a capital war dance, in which they were shortly joined by the several girls, the whole number keeping time in action and facial expression with the M.C. on the coach.

Every twenty yards or so the " braves" seemed to require fresh evidence that the visit was a peaceful one, and every time the M.C. indulged in a fresh harangue, until at last the coach was brought to a standstill within a few yards of the porch of Lake House, where Mr. Mcßae was ready to receive his guests. Here, Maoris and the village children were assembled, and silence having been obtained, the Rev. Mr. Spencer gave the note, and the children sang " God Save the Queen." An address was then presented to the Governor from the Arawa tribe, being interpreted into good English by Willie Rogers. It briefly alluded to the fact that the Arawas had always been allied to the Government, that they welcomed the Earl and his Countess with rejoicing, and that they trusted that peace would henceforth reign between the pakehas and Maoris. His Excellency replied, that it gave him great pleasure to receive the address on entering genuine Maori territory, and more especially since lie was enabled to fulfil a command of Her Majesty the Queen on that occasion. The Queen had asked him to assure the Maoris that she took particular interest in them, and while delivering her message, he thanked them for their kindly reception of him, her representative, and trusted that peace would reign between Maori and pakeha as long as he remained in New Zealand and for ever. "God Save the Queen." Three cheers were then given for their Excellencies and the gathering dispersed. In the afternoon, the party were driven out to Whakarewarewa via the Sanatorium, where Dr. Ginders acted as chaperon, and although both Lord and Lady Onslow have seen the Yellowstone Park, they found the geysers, terrace formations, and the darkskinned youngsters diving in the pools, extremely interesting. After partaking of tea at the Geyser Hotel they returned to Lake House. ARRIVAL IN WELLINGTON. Brilliant weather greeted the Governor's arrival in Wellington, which took place punctually at twenty minutes past two on May 2. The ceremony at the railway station was of the briefest description. Mayor Duthie received His Excellency and Lady Onslow, who at once stepped into a carriage and drove ofT with the Premier and Mayor. The Heretaunga Light Horse formed in front as an escort, preceded by the friendly societies, pupils from the Wellington and St. Patrick's Colleges, &c., and behind came members of the Harbour Board, City Council, and other bodies. The procession moved along Thorndon Quay, past the wharves to Lambton Quay, when it turned and marched down to Government Buildings. There a little delay took place waiting for some of the official addresses, but at ten minutes past three Lord Onslow, Lady Onslow and party, appeared on a platform erected under the principal portico. In the absence of Mr. Goring, Clerk of the Executive Council, Captain Fortescue, formerly A.I).C. to Sir William Jervois, read the commission appointing Lord Onslow Governor, and the oath was then administered by the Chief Justice. The City Rifles and other corps forming the guard of honour, presented arms, and the Artillery fired a salute of seventeen guns, the band meanwhile playing the National Anthem.

The Town Clerk read address on behalf of the Corporation : —

The Mayor congratulated His Excellency on his appointment, and his safe arrival. His Excellency read a formal reply as follows :— " Sir, —1 heartily thank you as the representative of the citizens of Wellington for the cordial welcome which you have been good enough to extend to Lady Onslow, myself, and my family, who for some years to come are likely to be resident in your midst. I am further indebted to you for the manner in which you have extended the welcome bo me personally, for I cannot doubt even if your address did not reiterate the sentiment, that your loyalty to Her Majesty the Queen does not depend on the individual who may have the power temporarily to represent her in this colony. I thank you for the expression of a hope that my term of office may be a pleasant and successful one. I have little doubt but that the well-known amenities of New Zealand will, so far as I am concerned, fulfil the first of these desires. Whether it shall be successful or nob depends largely on your forbearance, but a feeling of confidence that I may from

the words of your address rely upon your support encourages me to persevere in the determination to exercise the duties of Governor in an impartial and constitutional spirit, so as to merit the approval and the confidence of the people of New Zealand." lie would not, however, he added, content himself with a merely formal reply on such an occasion, but would add a few words to what he had road. He recognised from the spirit of the address that the loyalty of the colonists to the Crown was undiminished, and did not depend on the merits or demerits of the individual who might be sent here to represent Her Majesty. He was well aware of the difficulty an}' man would find who had to succeed a Governor like Sir William Jcrvois, who had endeared himself to the hearts of all by his unfailing courtesy and his soldierly bearing, and who, moreover, had been of such service, not only to this colony but to others, by his experience in matters of defence. He recognised, too, that lie was what he had already been called in some of the papers, " Our Cheap Governor ;" but he might say at once he sympathised with the difficulties New Zealand had to contend with, and the efforts it was now making to rehabilitate itself. It was far better to earn a reputation for honesty than to pursue a career of lavishness and extravagance, or even kind-hearted expensiveness. He would promise to identify himself with the progress of the colon}', and the efforts to promote the great industries which had been planted in it, and which they were now engaged in fostering. During his passage through the country he had noted with interest its great natural resources and features. He had seen the kauri forests, its great sanatorium in the Lake district, the fertile and prosperous district of the Wairarnpa, and, finally, he had just been gazing on the expanse of Port Nicholson, a great harbour eminently fitted to be the centre of trade and distribution. He believed in a Governor of a colony making himself thoroughly acquainted with the country in which he had to live, and identifying himself with it as far as possible. He could not deny he had taken part in English party politics, but the questions which were being fought out at home were not of interest here. Colonists had long ago settled for themselves home rule and triennial Parliaments. He intended to keep two texts of scripture prominently before him, " Pender unto Caesar the things that are Cesar's," and " Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might." He had too, the example of the purest Constitutional monarch known to,followthat of Her Gracious Majesty the Queen, whom God save. (Cheers.) After His Excellency had finished his brief speech, addresses were presented by the Druids, Oddfellows, Wellington College, and the Masons. To these Lord Onslow made short and suitable replies, and the ceremony then terminated. On the 7th of May nine members of the Congregational Union of New Zealand v/aited on the Governor at Wellington and presented an address of welcome. His Excellency made a suitable reply A deputation from the Presbyterian Assembly waited on the Governor at Wellington on trie liith of May, for the purpose of presenting an address of welcome. His Excellency made a suitable reply, and added:—"l recognise that the difference of religious convictions does not prevent the belief that Her Majesty's representative in the colony will allow no such consideration to interpose in the faithful and impartial exercise of the duties of a Governor, a hope which it will be my earnest endeavour to fulfil."