THE- STATE BANQUET. "HARBINGERS OF PEACE."

Otago Witness, Issue 2811, 26 August 1908, Page 31

THE- STATE BANQUET. "HARBINGERS OF PEACE."

SYDNEY, August 22. The weather is fine for to-day's programme. It includes visits of contingents from tEe fleet to the country, a number of sporting events, coucertß, theatre parties, and a Venetian carnival on the harbour. PEACE AND PROGRESS. SYDNEY, August 22. The guests at the State banquet numbered 1 1000. Mr Wade (the State Premier), in proposing the toast of "The King and the President of the United States," said that the feeling of kinship between the United States and Great Britain was growing stronger year by year. The British were only too willing to regard their friends across the Atlantic as their natural allies. Mr Deakin, in proposing the health of Lord Northcote, paid, a glowing farewell tribute to the departing Governor-General. He described the fleet as the harbingers of peace, bringing to Australia a message of confidence, and carrying throughout the world, an assurance of strength. No other flag would have received the welcome that was being tendered on this occasion. Lord Noxbhcote eaid foe believed that such visits only required development to become an important factor in the peace » and progress of the world. He hoped the time would come when an Australian squadron would be able to return the visit. Sir H. Rawson said that the flags of America and Great Britain were entwined, and he hoped that they would always be on the same side. Admiral Sperry, replying to the toast of " Our Guests." said that their welcome had been cordial and enthusiastic beyond measure. Evidently it came from o. people, from their, representatives, a. the representatives ot the iving. But back of all was that kinship of common interests, of blood, and of a common Christianity. He hoped that the ties* which were as strong as steel, would become stronger and more numerous. The Admiral then proposed " The British [ Navy." j Admiral Poore, replying, said that he attributed the enthusiasm and friendslu of the two peoples to their interests being almost identical, because each had a strong respect for each other's stitength, and because of their united efforts in the direction of peace. / Mr Deakin, responding to the toast of j " The Commonwealth," looked forward to the day when from their harbour would gD forth a fleet worthy to be compared to the magnificent squadron which had reached the Australian shores.