PREMIERS AS BENCHERS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XLIV, Issue 13487, 14 May 1907, Page 5

PREMIERS AS BENCHERS.

CEREMONY- AT GRAY'S INN. By Telegraph.— Association.—Copyright. London, May 12. '' Sir Wilfrid Latjrier and Mr. Deakin were admitted as benchers of Gray's Inn on Saturday. ' The ceremony took place in the pensionroom, and luncheon was taken in the room where tradition says Queen Elizabeth welcomed the pioneers of England's colonial empire, ■The Duke of Connaught and ■ all the leading lawyers and judges, and the lady members of. their families, were present. (Received May 13, 10.14 p.m.) London, May 13. Sir Wilfrid Laurier, speaking at Gray's Inn, said British law indeed was a,bond of Empire, securing to eevry one of the Sovereign's subjects his entire rights; Mr. Deakin I following, % delivered a great speech. He remarked on the law-abiding character •of all the peoples of the Empire. "Amid its multitude of forms of government, we find everywhere in its citizens allegiance to the principles derived from the Motherland, , and its great lawyers. Consequently ,\to - day there were discussions which otherwise they might ; forego Jto essay, and when those present passed the loving cup he would say in that was another symbol of the Conference now assembled in London and all it stood for. He concluded by re-1 ferring to the stimulating memories of a great heritage, ■as arming the i '•- young and growing; ; States of - the Empire with courage to face new conditions and -conquer r whatever ; trials and difficulties were in store.