AN INSUFFICIENCY OF CLOAK ROOMS.

Otago Witness, Issue 2467, 26 June 1901, Page 28

AN INSUFFICIENCY OF CLOAK ROOMS.

(By a Tj\r>Y Coerespoxdext.) WELLNGTON. June 19

Amongst those present at last night* leccption at Government House were Sir Joseph and Lady Ward, the former in his handsome Windsor uniform, the latter looking charming in black brocade and jet. with a black aigrette in her hair. They were heartily congratulated on their new honours by their friends. Mrs Donnelly, with her gold medal on its crimson and black ribbon resting on her black and white lace^ dress wa= aito among the guests. Mrs Seddon wove black brocade, and Mips Seddon a dainty ivory satin. Lady Stout's handsome fiock was of black brocade, wirh much jet about the bodice. Some of the lace and embroidered cluffon frocks were lovely, and the debutants looked charming in their white gowns of s-ilk and satin. But, indeed, the majority of the dre«es were handsome, much white satin and brocade being u.-ec', and many exquisite white and violet bouquet ■* carried. Though only half-mourning was peimittcd, the fla^h of the jewels., the jet and the sequins, and the vivid colouring of the beautifuJ rooms, combined with splendid uniforms ol the staff, military and- navai officers, and the various consuls, prevented th v scene from being in the least sombre. Altogether it was a mo«t successful reception. Not only was it enjoyable and an artistic treat, as Government House functious always are, but it was deeply interesting, and the brilliant spectacle will be a subject to discuss and remember fora very long time.

Another reception that was practically a levee, to which ladies as well as genHemen were invited, was held at Government House this afternoon. Unfortunately, the weather took a most disloyal turn, and the very heavens seemed to have opened on the best hats and the smartest frocks of the guests. For a space of time the rain came down ir; torrents, and as- the Government have failed to provide sufficient accommodation at Government House, cloakrooms were not available, aud the guests in consequence suffered much inconvenience. They had to take their wet things with them into the drawing room, and this led to some comical and almost pathetic situations. Ladies were to be seen struggling with wet waterproofs, dripping umbrella?, cards of invitation", and even goloshes. With so much impedimenta it is difficult to shake hands with even an ordinary mortal, and it is certainly embarrassing thus burdened to pay homage to a Duchess. Wraps, umbrellaß, and goloshes were sometiniGs deposited under the drawing room furniture, and as the guests, after being presented, had to pass ntraight out through the main entrance, it was difficult to get ai the left luggage again without a long wait. The Duke and Duchess shook hands with everyone. Her Royal Highness was dressed in black, and wore a diamond chain and brooch. She was very gracious, and smiled pleasantly, as if she quite enjoyed the ordeal. The Duke was in morning dress. The function under such trying circumstances, may be regarded as a striking evidence of the loyalty of the people. Amongst those presented was a iady friend of Earl Roberte, who wore two medals, one of them equivalent to the D.S.O. for men, presented to he' 1 for nursing under fii'e in India^