THE INDO-COLONIAL EXHIBITION.

Otago Witness, Issue 1798, 7 May 1886, Page 18

THE INDO-COLONIAL EXHIBITION.

♦ THE OPENING CEREMONY. (Reuter's Telegrams.) London, May 4, Noon. The Indian and Colonial Exhibition at South KeiiMiigton was formally opened this morning by the Queen. The members of the Executive Commission were presented to her Majesty on her entrance to the building, the vestibule of which -was panelled round with views of Australian scenery. A procession was then formed, which traversed the Indian, Australian, aud Canadian courts and then proceeded to tho Albert Hall, where an imposing inaugural ci.ivmony took x>bce. The Prince of Wales bli-'ii, in his capacity of president of tho Executive Commission, read an address to her Majesty, stating that the display made by the British colonies at the Paris Exposition of 1878 had led him to express a hope that her Majesty's subjects in England might be enabled to witness the marvellous development which had taken place in the colonial portions of the empire. Her Majesty, in her reply, stated that she was sincerely gratified to witness the successful result which had attended the exertions of the Prince of Wales. Special stands were provided for the accommodation of colonists along the route taken by the procession. There was an immense concourse of people, and the pageant was of a most brilliant nature, splendid weather greatly enhancing its success, (Special to Press Association.) London, May 4. Several royalties have privately visited the exhibition. At the opening ceremony her Majesty the Queen was very quietly dressed in black, and 13 of her children and grandchildren were present. Her Majesty was immensely pleased at the reception accorded, and termed the exhibition a magnificent one. In the opening ode a passage occurred eulogising the federal idea. Her Majesty specially noticed the group of Hindoos and aboriginals in their several courts. Lord Augustus Lof tvs was not present, being confined to his house through indispo- . sition. , The market and wine bars for the sale of colonial produce and wines are a great attraction, and Adelaide fruit, which is being sold there, has realised good prices. Portraits of the Soudan contingent and views .of Sydney are greatly admired. Sir P. C. Owen, on behalf of the Prince of Wales, specially thanked Messrs Bosisto and Thompson, Sir Samuel Devonport, Mr Scott, Sir F. D. Bell, Dr Yon Haast, Sir Alexander Stuart, and Messrs Bunny and Garrick as ardent workers. The Times remarks on the absence of Mr

Gladstone at the opening ceremony of the exhibition.