THE LATE PRIME MINISTER.

Otago Witness, Issue 3714, 19 May 1925, Page 14

THE LATE PRIME MINISTER.

TRIBUTES TO HIS MEMORY.

IMPRESSIVE FUNERAL SERVICE.

Following upon the death of Mr Massey representative opinion throughout the country has given expression to feelings of the deepest regret. From all quarters heartfelt sympathy has been expressed in hundreds of resolutions, and a very large number of letters aiid telegrams have been received by the bereaved relatives. In the larger centres of population the Supreme Court adjourned its sittings, the presiding judges paying high praise to Mr Massey, and the low r er courts and public bodies also adjourned their fixtures. The populace showed in every way by its actions that Mr Massey’s death had made a deep impression on the nation and that his work and worth was universally applauded.

THE KING’S SYMPATHY. WELLINGTON May 11. The following cable message lias been received by Mrs Massey:— The Queen and I join in the sorrow which has befallen ycu by the death of your dear husband. The dominion wili mourn the loss of a Prime Minister who held that office with honour and distinction before, throughout, and since the Great War. Wo heartily sympathise with you, your family, and tne people of New Zealand, and feel sure that these sentiments are shared generally throughout the British Empire. (Signed) George, R. 1.” MRS MASSEY’S REPLY. WELLINGTON, May li. Mrg Massey has sent the following reply to the King’s message:— My heartfelt thanks for your Majesties’ most gracious and sympathetic message. The knowledge that your Majesties join in our sorrow is a soiace to me and my family in our bereavement. We are proud of the unblemished record of sendee to the Empire and honoured by such recognition by our King and Queen. . EXPRESSIONS OF REGARD. MR T. M. WILFORD. WELLINGTON, May 11. Mr Wilford, Leader of tho Opposition, in a tribute to Mr Massey said that for 25 years they had been opponents. The dead Prime Minister hit hard, gave no quarter, and took everything quietly which was given in return. He was always punctual for business, and always ready for any eventuality. “His sturdy Imperialism was a joy to me, and I always saw eye to eye with him on matters of common loyalty and obligation which knit together and alone can maintain the integrity of the Empire. It is difficult to imagine Parliament witnout him.” SIR JOSEPH WARD. WELLINGTON, May 11. Sir Joseph Ward, in the course of a warm tribute, said that Mr Massey’s death will be deplored by all sections of the people. His own feeling was one of the greatest sympathy for Mrs Massey and the family. To the people of the country he had so long served Mr Massey’s death came as a great blow. Even those who had differed strongly from his views must feel deep regret that he had not been permitted to live to finish his public career and live in quiet retirement. Sir Joseph Ward said he was in Parliament when Mr Massey en tered it and though they often crossed swords he recognised in Mr Massey a man of strong courage and a fearless fighter, one whom the country could ill afford to lose The speaker had attended several con ferences with him in the Old Land, and could affirm that he did good work, his ripe experience proving most useful. “He will be missed greatly,” Sir Joseph Ward concluded, “both in Parliament and in the country and such a man’s removal especially whiie occupying the highest position in the State, comes as a disaster that is widespread from end to end of the country.” SIR JAMES PARR. AUCKLAND, May 11. Sir James Parr said: “I consider Mr Massey to have been the greatest parliamentary tactician New Zealand has known. In the House he knew exactly when to take off the gloves and when to conciliate. He was keenly sensitive to the psychology of every situation, and when the sudden and unexpected happened, and instant decision had to bo made, his mind worked like lightning, and however serious the emergency his quick judgment was nearly always equal to the occasion. What did he accomplish? In our darkest hours he stood like a rock. Through war’s dread aftermath for six years he administered and ruled his country sanely and wisely, so that ho dies leaving New Zealand the most happy and prosperous of all the King’s dominions'. All New Zealand will lament the passing of tho pilot who weathered the storm.” BISHOP CLEARY. AUCKLAND. May 11. Bishop Clearv last evening paid tno following tribute to the late Primo Minister “As a Catholic churchman I stand aside from political party allegiance of any kind, but the predominant feeling over the death of the late Prime Minister must ever be one of doop sympathy with him in the long sufferings so bravely home that preceded his death, one of heartfelt condolenco with Mrs Massey and family, and one of grateful remembrance to the departed statesman for the great and unselfish and valued services rendered by him to thi* dominion and to the Empire throughout the longdrawn agony of the Great War. Those were years that tried the souls of New Zealand’s responsible rulers and of New Zealand’s manhood and womanhood, and

I believe that the dominion will at his graveside and in the vcai's to come recall with deep appreciation the patriotic services of the deceased Prime Minister. Tho proudost epitaph of Lawrence, of East India fame, was that ‘he tried to do his dutv.’ Ihe late Mr Massey both tried to do his duty to his country, and did it in those hardest and most soul-searching years of our dominion’s history. My sympathy {roes with a whole heart to his bereaved family.” SUPREME COURT JUDGES. PALMERSTON NORTH, May 11. The Supreme Court adjourned till tomorrow after tributes had been paid to Mr Massey by Mr Justice Reed and members of the Law Society. His Honor said that by the death of Mr Massey a great New Zealander had passed away—an honest and upright man, whose heart and soul were devoted to New Zealand. CHRISTCHURCH, May 11. When tho Supreme Court adjourned this morning as a mark of respect Mr Justice Adams said that the loss suffered by tho death of the Prime Minister would be felt throughout the Empire, He was not onlv a local statesman, but he had rendered unique and remarkable service during the war. ■*. PRIMATE’S APPRECIATION. AUCKLAND, May 11. Archbishop Averill (Primate of New Zealand), referring to the Prime Minister’s death, said “If we try to think of the influence of Mr Massey upon this country during the many years in which lie has been associated with its political life, and particularly since he has held the important and difficult position of Prime Minister, we must acknowledge that this dominion owes to him a deep debt of gratitude for the honourable position which it now holds among the nations which constitute the British Empire. He has served his country well, he has served the Empire well, he has served the Empire’s King well. He leaves behind him a noble record of service—of faithful and disinterested service. He has given his best to the country and the Empire, and his name will be honoured in the country which he loved and served so well. His cheery optimfem, his upright character, his deep and yet unobstrusive religion, his realisation of the truth that “righteousness exalteth a notion,” and his acceptance of that working principle of Mr Gladstone, “that what is morally wrong cannot be politically right” will always be associated with the name of Mr Massey. To-day New Zealand is poorer for the loss of an upright and honest leader, and today New Zealand is richer for the and service and ideals of William Massey.” MESSAGES FROM ABROAD. WELLINGTON, May 11. The following is a message from Sir James Allen:—“With the most ptofound regret have I hoard the Bad news about Mr Massey, and I shall be obliged if vou will conyey my sincere sympathy to Mrs Massey and tne other members of the family. The loss i 3 treat to them and to New Zealand—his country, for which he did so much through many years of patriotic labour. His decease tikes from us the taost ardent of Empire-builders and supporters, and there will be universal regret in the United Kingdom, the dominions, and the colonies. Would you kindly procure two wreaths—one for me and one for the staff of this office —and place them on his last resting place as some small token of our esteem for a great Prime Minister, whose labour here is . ended, but whose works will live after him.” Mr S. M. Bruce, thb Australian Prime Minister, cabled as follows:—“On behalf of the Government and people of Australia I desire to extend to your Govern ment and the people of New Zealand our sincerost sympathy in the loss suffered bv New Zealand by the death of the Right Honourable W. F. Massey. The outstanding qualities of tho great statesman will long he remembered by the citizens of the Empire, and his place in the councils of Uio Empire will he difficult to fill. To his family our heartfelt sympathy is extended, nnd wo trust that the knowledge of his great valuable public service will temper their sorrow in his loss.” Mr L. ft. Amerv (Secretary of State for tho Colonies) sent the following personal message:—“Please convey to Mrs Masse? and the family the most sincere sympathy from Mrs Amerv and mvself. I deeply regret the lo«s of an old frfetfd and of one whose faith in the Empire never fnlterod.” Eari Jellicoe’s message was as follows:“ladv Jellicoe and I mourn with New Zealand the loss of a great Prime Minister. Please convey our deepest, sympathy to Mrs Massey and tho Government.” MAORI SYMPATHY. GISBORNE, May 11. On behalf of the Maoris of the Poverty Bay district the following message, signed by Messrs W. Pitt and W. Delnmere. on behalf of the Whanau. Apanui, Ngatiporou, Aitanga, Amahuki, Rongowhakaata. and Tamunuhiri tribes, has been forwarded to the Native Minister (the Hon. J. G. Coates): —

“Wo deeply deplore tho loss and out are sad at King Death having taken toll. The giant totara has fallen, and the earth has been shaken to its foundation. Farewell, old man. Go to the home o i vour ancestors, and the multitude take word hence that the generations who follow are aiming to carry on the good works founded by you. Take our love to Seddon. Neither of you will ever be forgotten by your Maori people nor your pakeho. brethren. May the good work you have done in this world be an everlasting monument to your memory and the younger generation. Farewell. Farewell. Go hence to the home where all must follow. Leave us here as orphans to mourn our loss. “Kindly convey to the house of mourning, and especially to the widow, our deepest affection and sympathy in her irreparable I08S.” The following telegram has been sent by Ladv Carroll to Mrs Massey:— “Deepest sympathy in your irreparable loss of a good man, father, and husband. May the knowledge that the whole of the people of the dominion —nay, the nation —• mourn with you, support you in this time of trial.” FROM MRS MASSEY. WELLINGTON, May 11. Of the very many mossages which have poured like a stream into the offices of the press of the dominion since the death of Mr Massey none is more touching in its application and affection than that received last nveninnr from Mrs Massey. With a fortitude that is characteristic yet striking. Airs Massey, bore her husband’s illness, and now that the end has come she expresses in her own words in the following message her grateful appreciation of the comfort and assistance sue has received from the people of the dominion: The affection expressed for my husband and tho assurances of prayers on his behalf to the Almighty, in Whom he believed, have been a revelation to us and have been a great comfort during the past six weeks. We are all most gratefuL TRIBUTES FROM LONDON. PRAISE FROM THE PRESS. LONDON, May 11. The Morning Post pays a tribute to Mr Massey under the title of “A Good Man and True.” This newspaper says: “All who know him will mourn with New Zealand the loss of her Prime Alinister. He had the grit and courage of Protestant Derby and the resourceful and loyal spirit of New Zealand. He had a firm faith in God and the Empire. His long term of office was the fruit not of mere political cleverness, or power in the tricks of debate, but of the greater qualities of courage, integrity, and love, and trust in his people.” The Daily Telegraph describes Air Alassey a*» “the last of the war Prime Alinisters throughout the Empire. It was a real gratification that such a gallant fighter died in harness.” AIR J. H. THOMAS’S AIESSAGE. LONDON, Alay 10. Air J, 11. Thomas (Colonial Secretary in the AlacDonald Government), in a message to the Australian Press Association, says: “The Empire as a wh ijf will hear with profound regret of Mr .I'assey’s death. He was of its most distinguished statesmen. None who had the privilege and honour of knowing him could be otherwise than impressed by his sincerity and his sinsde-minded desire to work for the good of his country.” COMMENT BY THE TIMES." LONDON, Alay 10. In a leading article The Times says: “New Zealand has lost a trusted national leader and the Empire a most loyal and devoted servant. One by one the statesmen who dominated the political stage in the Alothor Country and the dominions during war years have retired into the background. Mr Massey was the last, and perhaps he himself would have preierred that death and not defeat should end his long and honourable career in office. New Zealand is a country of fine loyalists. If her people are loyal to tho Empire they are also loyal to the men of their choice. Air Alassey, like his old opponent, Air Seddon, was Premier for 13 years. It is a tribute to his power and leadership that the various attempts at opposition during his period of office seemed half-hearted and almoet unreal. He was an Imperial leader of the old school. Even after the war he had little sympathy with the political ideals of some of his brother Premiers in the British partnership. In this, however, is reflected the opinion of the vast majority of his fellow-countrymen, for the restless dootrines of the past few years have taken longer to reach New Zealand than the nations nearer the heart of the Empire. The British people, knowing Air Alassey from his bluff, kindly figure, will receive tho news of nis death with the keenest regret, and they will be the first to sympathise with New Zealand in her great loss.” DEVOTED SON OF EAIPIRE. SYDNEY, Alay 11. The Sydney Morning Herald, in a leading article on Mr Massey, says : “By the passing of Mr Alassey the dominion (in which he spent most of his life) loses one of its mosthonoured citizens and the Empire a dei voted son. Rugged plainness, integrity, and directness were the outstanding qualities in this sterling farmer, who established for himself and nis party an authority which seemed imprognable. It was an instructive achievement to he long remembered, for the career of Mr Maesey, if reflecting anything at all, is an annihilating answer to those tricky-minded people with the demoralising gospel that wiliness and artifice are the soundest passports to tho pubic confidence. From the day that he entered Parliament until he died no suspicion of tho betrayal of the public interest was over attached to his name. 110 leaves an unblemished record—tljat of a plain, simple man seeing his duty clearly and doing it fearlessly. In what nioro vital way could the theory of government common to the British dominions be justified?” FOREMOST EMPIRE MAN. SYDNEY, May 11. Sir George Fuller (Premier of New South' Wales) said: “I regret exceedingly to hear of Mr Massey’s death. He waa one of our foremost Empire men. He has done work of tremendoue worth, not only to Nesg Zealand but to all the Empire aa well.’*

CONDOLENCES FROM CANADA. OTTAWA, May 11. Regret is expressed in Government circles at the death of Mr Massey. A message of S indolence was cabled by the Prime Minter. Mr Mackenzie King, to the Acting Prime Minister of New Zealand. SYMPATHY FROM ABROAD. LONDON, May 11. Several of the newspapers recall the episode that a telegram containing an invitation to stand for Parliament reached Mr Massey on the point of a pitchfork while “straw walloping.” The Daily Chronicle instances Mr Massey’, inflexible moral courage in his threat to resign unless large cruisers were sent to eaoort the New Zealand transports as a protection against Admiral von Spee. The Governor of Northern Ireland has telegraphed to Sir James Allen that Mr Massey’s death “is a personal bereavement to us in the land of his birth and ancestry.” Sir James Craig, on behalf of the Government of Northern Ireland, ha 9 sent a message to the effect that the Empire has lost a renowned statesman and Imperialist, and Ulster one of her most distinguished sons.— WHAT MR MASSEY MIGHT HAVE BEEN. LONDON, May 11. The Daily Telegraph says: “His fixe! immovable principles, his unshakable determination to see trouble through, and his readiness to throw in his all were invaluable qualities in the time of danger. Mr Massey was an Imperialist through anl through. We hope his successor will be a statesman of equal courage, with a devotion as fixed and ardent.” Mr T. P. O’Connor contributes a twocolumn obituary notice to the Daily Telegraph, in which he says: “Mr Massey wa=» born at Limavady, which represents the Ulster Orange temperament in the rigidest and dourest form. With a slight change in his life he might have occupied the place of Sir James Craig has. He had the same resolute temper and the same stern, simple creed.’ EMPIRE-WIDE RENOWN. SYDNEY, May 11. The Daily Telegraph says a grey granite stone, graven with the words: “Here lies an Imperialist,” would be a fitting monument to raise above the last resting-place of William Ferguson Massey. It would be expressive of a man most notable in political circles in the dominion since the day of Richar d John Seddon.” Tb *. article proceeds to pay a tribute to him as a bluff, strong, far-sighted man of ada mantine qualities, and places his work as an Imperialist on a high plane, and declares that he was a robust, unequivocal patriot, diffusing confidence when most urgently needed. Referring to Mr Massey’s efforts and achievements in the direction of closer relations between the Commonwealth and the dominion the article declares that all along he has been a firm believer in co operation between the commonwealth and the dominion in all matters of mutual concern. Australia will jo'n sincerely with her sister dominion in regretting the death of so true a friend and so sterling a character, whose abilities won him Einpire-wide renown. PEERAGE DECLINED. AUCKLAND, May 11. A writor in the New Zealand Herald says it may be told now that Mr Massey had the unique honour of declining to aocept a peerage. This is not second-hand gossip. The writer was present when thtf offer was made and doefinod. The honour was proffered on behalf of the British Government by Mr Walter Long, afterwards Lord Long, at the conclusion of the Peace Conference. Mr Massey was given his choice of a title. Mr Massey was sincore in his reply and firm in his refusal, though naturally he Was very grateful for the tribute. MASONIC BODY. AUCKLAND, May 11. Mr Mauey'i death deprive! the Maaontc laatltutiou in Naw Zealand o< its official

bead, as this is the first time in the 35 years’ existance of the Grand Lodge of New Zealand that a Grand Master has died while in harness| When Mr Massey-was installed Into that office in Auckland last November the ravages of the disease which has resulted in his death were already painfully appar ent, and it was obvious that only his re markable fortitude enabled him to gc through the fatiguing ceremony .of Installation. As a matter of fact, he has never been able to perform any of the duties of his office beyond the signing of the documents issued from the Grand Lodge office which required his signature for their,completion. Under the Masonic system of administration the duties of Grand Master devolve automatically upon the Deputy Grand Master of the year, Mr R. H. Richmond, of Greymout.h, who will continue (o fulfil them until th*e next communication in November, when another Grand Master will be elected according to the sys tem established by the New Zealand Grand TiOdge, which enables each of the four rhief Masonic provinces to nominate a Grand Master for two years out of every eight. Auckland will have the right to give the lead in the choice of Mr Massey’s succes sor. In point of fact, the transfer of authority to Mr Richmond involves no actual change of procedure in the craft. Practically tho whole of the visitation of lodges and other Masonic functions have been undertaken by Mr Richmond during the last five months. All lodges in New Zealand are to be draped in mourning for the next month. SITE OF THE TOMB. WELLINGTON, May 12. The gunpit at Point Halswell, which is being converted into the tomb of the late Prime Minister, is about 100 ft above water, and was constructed in ISSO. It occupies the most commanding point in the harbour, and was- suggested as a site for the soldiers’ memorial. An 18ih gun occupied the pit, but it has now been dismounted and rolled down the hillside. MESSAGES OF SYMPATHY. - MR BALDWIN’S TRIBUTE. WELLINGTON, May 12. The telegram from the Secretary of State for the Colonies to the Governor-Gene-ral, conveying the British Prime Ministers’ message, is as follows: “My colleagues and I have received the news of Mr Massey’s death with profound regret. Please convey our most deep sympathy to Mrs Massey and her family, and to the Government and people of New Zealand. As Prime Minister Sir Massey guided the destinies of New Zealand • through -12 most troublous and critical years. Of his great service in fosterinrg the growth and expansion of the dominion others are more qualified than I to sDeak, but those who, like myself, have had the opportunity and privilege of watching his work for the Empire know how much wo all have owea in these momontaus yoars to his whole-hearted care for its honour, safety, and well-being. We gratefully remember his fortitude in every crisis of the war,r his determinaiton that Now Zealand should play a part worthy of hor dostiny in helping the cause of the Allies, his own unsparing efforts in that cause, and the success- which they achieved. At the Imperial War Cabinet meetings of 1917 and 1918, and at the Paris Peace Conference ho renrderod consistent service, and successive Imperial Conferences since that time have profited by his wide human sympathy, his ripe experience in affairs, and his sagacity in council. Mr Massey’s death will not be a loss to New Zealand only. The whole Empire will mourn him to-day, both os a man and a statesman, and many of us will long cherish the memory of a most gonuine and lovable personality.” OTHER DOMINIONS. WELLINGTON, May 12. The following meseages hae been received by hit Excellency the GorernorGenerali —

From the Governor of Western Australia, Sir W. R. Campion: “I have been requested by my Ministers to send you the following message:—‘The Government and people of Western Australia desire to offer their sincerest condolences to the Government and the people of New Zealand in the loss of their distinguished Primo Minister.’—(Signed) Campion, Governor.” From the Governor-General of Australia, Lord Forster: —“1 desire fully to associate myself with tho Prime Minister’s telegram of sympathy on Mr Massey’s death and I shall be grateful to your Excellency if you will convey my own personal sorrow and sympathy to Mrs Massey.—(Signed) Forster, Governor-General.” From the Governor of Newfoundland, Sir William Allardyco:—“My Ministers and the people of Newfoundland desire me to express their profound sympathy with the people of New Zealand on the passing of a great Imperial statesman. —(Signed) Allard ice.” From- the Governor-General of the Union of South Africa, the Earl of Athlone: — “My Ministers have learned, with deep regret of the death of the R/„ht Honourable W. F. Massey, Prime Minister of New Zealand, and ask that an expression of heartiest sympathy in ineir irreparable loss may be conveyed to his family and to tho people of Now Zealand iviy Ministers recall the groat services rendered by Mr Massey t 6 the dominion of New Zealand and to the British Empire during his long tenure of office, more especially at the Peace Conference in 191$, where his wise statesmanship was of inestimable value to his colleagues. Please convey an expression of my personal regret and deep sympathy to the family of the deceased statesman.—(Signed) Athlone.” Sir James Allen, High Commissioner, has cabled Sir Francis Bell expressing profound regret at Mr Massey’s death and sympathy with the family. “Death has taken from us,” he says, “a most ardent Empire-builder, and the United Kingdom and the dominions and colonies will all regret Mr Massey’s passing.” Mr Bruce, Australia’s Prime Minister; in cabled condolences, says: “The outstanding qualities of this great statesman will long be remembered by the citizens of the Empire. His place in the Council of the Empire will be difficult to fill.” MR AMERY’S TRIBUTE. LONDON, May 11. Mr L. C. Amery (Colonial Seoretaiw), interviewed by the Australian Press, said that Mr Massey’s death was a great loss, not only to New Zealand, but to the Empire. “I feel a sense of personal loss in the departure of an old friend,” he said. “I had the pleasure and the privilege of knowing Mr Massey for many years, and during the war, as Secretary of the Imperial War Cabinets from 1917 to 1918. I came into close contact with him. What impressed me most was the broad serenity of his outlook during those anxious times, and his unswerving confidence in ultimate victory. No matter how long the struggle continued, however difficult the problems, one alwavs knew that Mr Massey was prepared to play up for the common good, and believed, with unwavering taitn, that New Zealand stood with him. He was a most lovable, warm-hearted, and genuine man.” LONDON’S SORROW. LONDON, May 11. The Lord Mayor of London has telegraphed as follows to the High Commissioner for New Zealand (Sir James Allen) “The citizens of London deeply regre* the death of youi Prime Minister. They happily recall the fact that they added hir» to London's roll of famous freemen many years ago.’*AMEIUCAN TRIBUTE. NEW YORK, May 11. The New York Times, in a leader, eulogises Mr Massey, saying that he was by the force of his character one of the statesmen of the now Pacific. New Zealand and Australia havo been forced to think internationally and give special attention to the Empire’s policies in the Far East. This explains the vigour with which Mr Massey protested against the abandonment of the Singapore base. The Singapore base to him, a 3 to the leaders in Australia, was vital to the integrity of Britain. It was largely owing to his efforts that the dominions wero represented at tho Washington Conference. Such was Mr Massey’s hold on his own people that only death displaced him. It is a curious paradox that in a country which is noted for its excess of Liberalism, a man who by nature was so staunch a Conservative so long held power.COUNCIL OF WOMEN. WASHINGTON, May 11 The New Zealand delegates to the conference of the International Council of Women have cabled their condolences to Mrs Massey.SYMPATHY IN SYDNEY. SYDNEY, May 12. The flag at the New Zealand Government offices was flown at half-mast. Several consular representativos and a number of members of the New Zealand community in Sydney called upon Mr Blow to express their sorrow. THE WEST COAST. MESSAGE FROM MR HOLLAND. WESTPORT, May 12. Numerous tributes to the memory of Mr Massey have been paid by public men In und about Westport. All testify to his broad-minded Ktnr.esmanship. Mr 11. H. Hollnnd, M.P., telegraphed the Acting Prime Minister as follows:—“I wish to convey to yourself and members of the Government my own sincere sympathy aud that of the Labour Party in the almost irreparable loss they have suffered in the death of the Prime Minister. I shall always remember him as a statesman of wide capabilities aud strong determination and a great opponent, who, having given his word never once broke it. After life’s fitful fever may be sleep well.” Mr Holland also sent a messago of condolence to Mrs Massey. The Mayor (Mr J. W. Menzles) telegraphed expressing deepest sympathy on behalf of the citizens of Westport The president of the Buller Progress League and the county chairman (Mr D. O. O’Bretn) telegraphed Mrs Massey as follows -.—“ May your dignity In sorrow overcoine your grief.”

Ministers, school tearl;us t and others also paid warm tributes to the dead states man’s services to New Zealand and the Empire. LAND OF HIS BIRTH. MESSAGES FROM NORTHERN IRELAND. WELLINGTON, May 12. The following message has been received froin the Duke of Abercorn, the Governor of Northern Ireland: “In the name of Northern Ireland and inyself I beg to offer the people of New Zealand our truest sympathy in the death of the Prime Minister, llis loss is a personal bereavement to us in the land of his birth and ancestry * Sir James Craig, Prime Minister of Northern Ireland, telegraphed: “On behalf of the Government of Northern Ireland I tender to his relatives and to the Government and to the people of New Zealand my warmest sympathy upon tho death of Mr Massey. The Empire has lost in him a renowned statesman and Imperialist, and Ulster one of her most distinguished eons. With a lively recollection of his visit to the land of his birth she is proudly sharing the sorrow that will be felt wherever the British flag is flying.” 4 Lord Liverpool’s message is as followg: io the Government and people of New Zealand the deepest sympathy of Lady Liverpool and myself is extended, arid cially to Mrs Massey in her hour of need.” Lord Ranfuny telegraphed: “The principal merchants and residents of Dungannon, who lately met Mr Massey on his visit here together with Lady Ranfurly and myself, tender to the Government and people of ■''New Zealand our sincere sympathy on the death of your Prime Minister.” Mr J. Gilbert Magee, Mayor of Londonderry, telegraphed: “‘Please convey the deepest sympathy of the citizens of Londonderry to your Government and to the relatives of New Zealand's late Prime Minister on the blow they and the Empire nave suffered in his untimely death.” ANOTHER MAORI MESSAGE. NAPIER. May 12. Kurupo Taroha has sent the following message to the Native Minister (the Hon. »T. G. Coat as) on behalf of the Ngatikahungunu tribes: “Kindly convey to Mrs Massey and family our deepest and most heartfelt sympathy and sorrow in their great bereavement. We mourn the loss of this great man —a loss to the on f i Now Zealand—to pakeha and Maori alike. “Farewell, thou giant of the forest, in whose enfolding bowers we, thy children, in the past did find a sure shield from the wintry showers and the stormy blast. Farewell, O noble spirit. Depart thou hence from this earthly mold to those eternal shades our ancestors have betold. and find surcease from toil and pain untold. Farewell, our friend in need and friend indeed. Depart thou hence with the western wind. Our woeful dirge and doleful wail lift ve up to heaven in combine farewell. O noble chief, farewell.” THE ARAWAS’ SORROW. AUCKLAND. May 12. The Arawa Trust Board at Rotorua has sent the following message to the Minister of Native Affairs (the Hon. J. G. Coates): “New Zealand’s greatest and grandest Rangatira has moved on. and to his Government he leaves his beloved land and all his ideals as a sacred trust. Therefore be strong as he was strong in our country’s hour of need.. The Arawas share with the Government its sorrow and grief at the passim* away of a groart patriot, a great Englishman, and a true friend of the Maori race.” JEWISH SYMPATHY.. NAPIER, May 12. Mr Sain Harris, on behalf of the Jewish citizens of Hawke’s Bay, has telegraphed as follows to Mrs Massey:—“The «Jewi s T> c«tizen3 of Hawke s Jhiy wish to extend their deepest sympathy and regrets to you in your great loss, which is also the dominion’s great loss, and a great loss to our race, to whom he has always been a great friend.” WREATH FROM KING OF BELGIUM. WELLINGTON, May 13. Among the wreaths ordered for the funeral is ono from the King and Queen of the Belgians. So many wreaths have been ordered that it will require several large motor vans to take them all to the graveside. MESSAGES OF SYMPATHY. MR LLOYD GEORGE’S TRIBUTE WELLINGTON, May 13. The Speaker of the Legislative Council (Sir Walter Carncross) received to-day tho following cablegram from Melbourne: “The Speaker of the Legislative Council and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Wellington,—On behalf of the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia, the President and Speaker extend their deepest sympathy to Mr Massey’s relatives and mourn with New Zealand in the los9 of her distinguished Prime Minister. —(Signed) T. Givens, President; W. A. Watt, Speaker.” . , , Sir Walter Carncross also received tho following cablegram from the Old Country: “The members of the United Kingdom branch of the Empire Parliamentary Association in both Houses of Parliament express to your branch their sincere sympathy in the great loss your Parliament and nation have suffered by the death of your Primo Minister, who played such a great part in Empire affairs.—(Signed) Howard De Gavello, secretary.” The following additional messages have been received by Mrs Massey iThe Pan-Pacifio Union expresses sincore sorrow in the death of Mr Massey, and extends deep sympathy to his family and the people of New Zoalnnd. Tho lloyal Agricultural Society deplores the loss of your husband, and extends Bincorest sympathy to yourself and family. The New Zealand Farmer*’ Union deeply sympathises with you and your family in the loss of your distinguished husband. From Mr Lloyd Georgo: “T deeply regret Mr Massey’s death. He was a fine Imperial patriot. I shall never forget the support of hi* unflinching comradeship in the War Cabinet in the (fays of tho Empire’s greatest trial.” From Lord Derby t *“I should be deeply obliged If you would convey to the family

of the late Mr Massey my most sincere sympathy. I saw a great deal of him at different tinios during the last few years, and hilly realise hi 3 sterling qualities. Tlie Empire has loefc one of its most sterling supporters. ’ From the Premier of Queensland: “On behalf of the Queensland Government I desire to convey deep sympathy on the occasion of th# loss suffered by your dominion by the death of the Prime Minister.” REFERENCE IN AUSTRALIA. “LONG AND HONOURABLE RECORD.” MELBOURNE, May 13. The Argus, referring to Mr Massey, says that shortly after the end of the war it was naively explained that William Ferguson Massey, who was in office when the war began, and -who was still Prime Minister when it ended, owed not a little of his success as a farmer and a politician to the fact that he was three parts a Scot and was a native of Ulster. In many respects he was similar to a previous outstanding character among New Zealand Prime Ministers—Mr Seddon—but Mr MasSe .y had a love of literature which Mr Seddon lacked, and the gift of onibellishing many a speech with ail apt quotation from the classics in prose, poem, some novel, or a newspaper article, or irom the Bible. In a leader the Argus says:—“Peculiarly British in temperament and outlook, Mr Massay was the very embodiment of the cherished British tradition of public service. Those who knew best the courage, energy, and thoroughness with which he applied himself to the weal of the Empire and the dominion, of which he was the loyal, devoted, ana adopted son, will most deplore his loss. We need noc despair of the maintenance of Imperial unity wnile the Empire produces men with so persistent a sense of duty, with such singleminded devotion to the Imperial connection, and such steadiness of aim in preserving it as Mr Massey unfailingly exhibited throughout his long, strenuous, and honourable public career.” MOURNING IN ULSTER LONDON, May 12. Sir James Craig, speaking in the Ulster Parliament, said that Mr Massey’s whole soul was centred in the people of New Zealand ; nevertheless ho had a warm place in his heart for his native country. They mourned for a distinguished Ulsterman whom they all loved. IMPRESSIVE FUNERAL SERVICES. WELLINGTON, May 14. Clouds hung over the city as a pall as the great leader of New Zealand was borne from the scene of his life’s labour. It was a day in keeping with the solemnity of the occasion—still and peaceful. The heavy rain of the forenoon by midday had given place to calm. The busy, bustling town had suddenly become quiet with the shuttered silence of a Sabbath morning, broken only by the sound of people moving quietly towards Parliament House. From before noon there was a steady procession, and by 1 o’clock there were thousands waiting upon the slopes and streets adjoining Parliament House. In patient stillness they watched, and with a reverent silence took their part in the solemn and simple service with which the last rites commenced. Then, while men bared their heads the bier was slowly borne down the steps in a silence broken only by the strains of the “Dead March,” and the mournful tolling of the bell. A ten minutes’ silence had been requested, but it was for much more than 10 minutes that the waiting lines of people stood quietly by while the cortege passed slowly along tho noiseless streets. From balconies and windows, as well as from the pathways, many thousands watched the slowly-moving procession. As the funeral car appeared, followed by the floral-laden lorries, heads wero bared and bands played stately funeral musio. Thus the mortal remains of the leader beloved of all passed from the halls where he had led the councils of the nation to a last resting place on the silent height of Point Halswell. LAST HOMAGE PAID. Through all the heavy rain that fell at intervals during the morning a constant stream of people desiring to pay their last homage to the memory of the late Prime Minister passed up the slopes of Parliament grounds and through the portals draped in purple and black to file past the bier upon which lay tho mortal remains of the leader. Just before noon there was a break in the clouds. The rain ceased as the last of the long procession mounted the steps, and umbrellas came down among the crowds lining the ropes about the statue of Richard Seddon and tho carriage way in front of the buildings. AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE. On tho roof of Parliament House, on tho balconies and terraces many spectator# assembled, and every coign of vantage on buildings overlooking the grounds was early occupied. Wreaths wore being brought out from the basement, and placed on lorries with raised platforms for a bettor display. Car after car drove up with identifying signs on tho wind shield to determine the order in the procession on its long journey through tho stroots of tho city and out along the shore of tho bay# to the last resting place of the Primo Minister at Point Halswell. Everything moved in orderly maimer in perfect organisation. The naval detachment arrived to take up its duty os bearers of tho casket, and thon there was a long procession of veterans and returned soldiers with medals on breast marching in two lines. At noon there was a slight lull, and tho steps were clear for a while. Inside could bo beard the voices of the ministers, and then the higher strain of a Maori lament for the dead. A fitful gleam of sunshine shot through the clouds, and then the party emerged from tho door of tho building to take up its position on the steps for tho funoral service. In the lead were the four minister* of tho church with the silver-haired Moderator (the Rev. G. Miller), accompanied by tho Rev. J. Gibaon-Smith. In the centre be*

hind were the Ministers of the Crown—the Hons. Sir Francis Bell, Sir James Parr, Sir Heaton Rhodes, Sir Maui Pomare, Messrs E. Guthrie, W. Nosworthy, R. F. Bollard, G. J. Anderson, and A. D. M'Leod. Mr Coates did not appear at this stage, but was present later With the Ministers was Commander Beal, representing the navy, ana behind were ■everal high naval officers, with General Melvill representing the army. The Leader of the Opposition (the Hon. T. M. Wilford) and Mr H. Holland (Leader of the Labour Party) were conspicuous, while Sir Joseph Ward and Sir William HallJones stood as Prime Ministers of the past. A picturesque touch was lent to the •ombre gathering by an old chief in Maori costume, carrying his taiaha, who posed for the battery of cameras, throwing off his cloak to display old Maori war medals. The weather was clearer when the funeral service commenced from the steps. The divine service was commenced by the Rev. G. Miller (Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of New Zealand) reading the 23rd Psalm, “The Lord is My Shepherd,” part of the 14th chapter of John, “Let not your heart be troubled.” Romans, chapter 8, verses 34 to 39, and Isaiah, chapter 38, verso 12, “I have rolled up like a weaver my life. He will cut me off from the loom.” MODERATOR’S ADDRESS. “Our life,” said the preacher, “is like a web that is woven little by little until it is complete, and then God cuts it off from the loom. In that web of life is to be found the results of all that we have done, whether it be good or bad. Two things are of importance—the kind of threads that we weave with, and the kind of pattern that we follow. There are times when the shuttle is filled with very dark and dull thread, but when the web is complete and woven according to the pattern given by Christ, our great example, it will be found that we grow strong through contest, wise through trial, noble through victory over adverse forces, and gentle through suffering. All the bright and dull threaas will be woven into a wonderful and beautiful harmony, and when the web is complete God cuts it off from the loom. That is what wo call death, but it is not death to die in Christ; it is but a falling asleep and awakening in the presence of •God. Oar Lord said: ‘I am the resurrection and tho life. He that believeth in Me, though lie were dead, yet shall he live; and whosoever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die.’ He whose body we are to lay in the grave to-day is not dead. Ho is olive. He nas loft the land of the dying and has entered into the land of the living. Tho late Prime Minister had a good upbringing. He was taught to reverence God and His Word, and that means a Yery great deal in any man’s life. Impression were made upon his heart that hever left him. The reverent way in which he qucU’d tho Scriptures revealed his familiarity v. itli the pages of Holy Writ. Wo do not sorrow to-day as those who have fio lnpo. We believe that ho rested upon the eve ting arms of God—that is, by faiih he g asped the unfailing hand of Christ id (hat by tho saving power of the Son of 'id he has been lifted up into the he:t »:dy places. We do not, then, thin’, r ,i h dead. lie is not doad, but alive for eve-more. “There t«- :.o death I What seems so is This l. e oi mortal breath

Is but a suburb of the life elysian, Whose portal we call Death. “There are few men who have not regarded death with something of aversion,” continued the preacher, “and we all sympathise with the touching prayer of Dr Matheson, the blind preacher, of Edinburgh, the author of the beautiful hymn, *0 Love, That Will Not Let Me Go.’ His prayer was: ‘ Reveal to me that angel at the gate. Give me a view of death as a hallowed thing. It has long been to me the king of terrors. My gravestone was held a spectre. Take away the spectre and put an angel there.’ But when we look up into the face of Jesus Christ and commit our souls into His keeping, then we are able tp exclaim with the great Apostle: * O Death, where is thy sting ? O Grave, where is thy victory?’ As has been said: * Not by all the lamps of worldly wisdom clustered in one place can we guide our stepf so securely |s by fixing our eyes on this inevitable cloud through which all must pass, which at every step becomes darker and more threatening to the children of this world, but to the children of faith and obedience still thins away as they approach, to melt at length and dissolve into that glorious light which knows no setting.’ “The whole dominion mourns to-day the loss of a great statesman who loved the land of his adoption, who laboured assiduously and devotedly for her good, who for over SO years gave to this dominion faithful public service and for 13 years used those splendid gifts of leadership with which God endowed him for the advancement of the dominion and the honour and prestige of the Empire. His has been a noble service. No man has done greater. He was steadfast and courageous He had strength of character and nobleness of spirit. He bore through all the political life and political strife an unsullied record. Ho wa» thoroughly honest and loyal to his convictions. He was faithful to his friends and generous to his foes. A courageous fighter, he had unswerving determination, and yet withal was generous and tolerant. The dominion owes him a debt of gratitude which it is impossible to repay. He came to the end of a long and honourable career with an unsullied character, and with an honour and a glory of which any man might be justly proud. He was also a true patriot. He loved his King and his country with a burning love. When the war came, how loyal he was. How zealously he threw himself into the struggle and helped New Zealand to play a very important and a very pronounced and a very honoured part in the great struggle. Then how ably and in what a masterly way he grappled with the perplexing problems that arose after (ho war. and through it all there was not the slightest indication of self-seeking. As Bomeono has said, no public man ever had h cleaner record or was less open to the charge of having used his position for his own glorification or aggrandisement. He will be held in grateful momory as one who in years of unexampled stress nnd difficulty served his country and tho Empire with ability, loyalty, and single-hearted devotion. “Now is the stately coloumn broke, The beacon light is quenched in smoke, The trumpet’s silver voice is still, Tho warder silent on the hill. “To-day our hearts go out in deep symr lathy to her who has been bereaved of a ovea and loving husband, to those who have been bereaved of a kind and noble father, and to those who have lost a leader and a friend. We commend them to our graoious Heavenly Father, Who is their refuge and their atrength, a very present

help in trouble, and who in all their afflictions is afflicted. May He look down upon (hem in their sorrow and affliction, and comfort them. The remembrance of his devotion to duty and of great service for his country nobly done will ever be fresh in their memory and fill their hearts with gladness.” BIER BORNE FORTH. It was now past the half-hour. The Ministers entered the building again to prepare for the final exit of their leader from the restlessness of the political stage. The ordered throng on the steps broke up into little groups, and there was a silent shaking of hands with those, including his private secretary, who had been most intimately associated with the late Prmje Minister. The military band under its conductor took up its position at the foot of the Seddon statue, and the cameramen altered their positions to catch the party issuing from the portals.of Parliament House. The veterans of the earlier and later wars lined the approach along which the cortege would leave. There was a tense moment or two of suspense and expectancy, and then the reverent figures of the ministers of the church were seen slowly emerging from the doorway, followed by the men of the Navy bearing the coffin and the mortal remains of the late leader. The band struck up the infinitely affecting strains of the “Dead March,” with the sad beat of the muffled drum punctuating the solemn dirge for the departed. Slowly the funeral party with the Ministers on each side of 4 he casket as pall-bearers descended with measured tread the long flight of steps till they reached the hearse. Here already were gathered many of the most beautiful wreaths placed affectionately there by representatives of the various departments. THE CORTEGE MOVES OFF. The l coffin, covered with the Union Jack, and witlKa Maori mat al; the foot, symbolising the joint sorrow of the Native r.eople and the pakelia am! the nations of the Empire, was gently placed within the hearse. The members of the funeral party took their seats in the long line of cars stretching right round the whole parliamentary block. There was a slight yause, and then almost on the stroke of 1 o’clock with a little puff of smoke from its running engine the hearse slowly began to move down the driveway, followed by • he long procession of cars. The band struck up ft new air as of triumph over mortality, and thus as it were with a note of good cheer Parliament bade farewell to Its long-tjme leader on his journey to a place where there arc no debates and no divisions, and where the only majority is the great majority of those who have gone that way before. BAREHEADED CROWDS. Long before mid-day on the sidewalks of Lambton quay, of Molesworth and Bowen streets, the people had congregated, the numbers steadily growing till almosc 1 o’clock, when movement ceased and the great concourse stood in silence. All (rnllic had been diverted from the streets Jn the vicinity of Parliament Buildings, and the funeral cars according to their classes and groups were drawn up. The early arrangements for traffic control were carried through smoothly and without incident. With one accord, when the Artillery Band, stationed in tho parliamentary grounds, played the first bars of the “Dead March” in “Saul,” the great gathering at the entrance gatea and far along the

quay uncovered, and stood motionless and silent as the hearse, followed by eight draped lorries bearing a wonderful floral tribute to the late dominion leader and the official cars, wound slowly down the winding carriage way to the quay. There the semi-official cars joined in from Bowen street, and after them again an apparently endless stream of cars from Molesworth street, from Lower Lambton quay, and Bunny street. As the cortege filed slowly past almost noiselessly, car after car, those on the roadside stood uncovered, motionless, and silent. The wonder of it was—so the thought struck one—that so many could stand so very quietly. Only the mournful music of the funeral dirge played by the Petone Band at the intersection of Featherston street and Lambton quay and the slow toll of the town clock broke in upon the reverent silence as the cortege moved on, with, upon either side, pacing veterans of the South African campaign and men returned from the Great War through more thousands standing in Upper Lambton quay and Willis street. All along Manners street to Courtenay place the route was lined by dense crowds of reverent spectators. When the cortege reached the head of Courtenay place the veterans and returned soldiers escorting the hearse halted and stood to attention while the funeral passed. From Courtenay place to Newtown manv thousands of people lined both sides of the streets, and the noble music of the “Dead March,” which at intervals along the route pierced the muffled atmoiphere, gave a most impressive and inspirational touch to the last stage of the Prime Minister’s last journey. After leaving Newtown district the cortege gathered speed somewhat, and continued at a faster pace in order to reach Point Halsweil in good time. Along the whole route to the head of Shelly Bay road, and to the Miramar wharf, there were large assemblages of people to pay their final tribute. AT POINT HALSWELL. On the arrival of the hearse at Point Halsweil the pallbearers, comprising 11 petty officers of the Roval Navy, removed the casket from the hearse and placed it on the gun carriage and behind it to the barrier. They lifted the coffin from the gun carriage at the barrier and carried it to and subsequently lowered it into the grave. The gun carriage, when the coffin had been placed upon it, was drawn to the barrier by a party of 23 noncommissioned officers of the Royal New Zealand Artillery and New Zealand Permanent Staff, and the pallbearers followed be"f? 1 ®- The band of the First Batalion Wellington Regiment plaved a funeral march to the grave. AT THE GRAVESIDE. At the graveside the ceremony was simple but impressive. The Rev. John Gibson-Sinith. of Wellington, read the 103rd Psalm, verses 15 to 18: “As for man, his days are as grass. As a flower of the field so ho flourisheth, for the wind passeth ever it, and it is gone, a.nd the place thereof shall know it no more. But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear Him, and His righteousness unto children’s children to such as keep His covenant and those that remember his precepts to do them.” And from Revelation, 14th chapter, 13th verse: “And I heard a voice from Heaven saying write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord, from henceforth. Yea, saith the spirit that they may rest from their labours for their works follow with them.” He also read 1 Thess., 4th chapter, verses 13 and 14, and 1 Cor., 15th chapter, verses 20, 21. and 22, and Revelation, chapter 21,. verses 1 to 4. ending: “And He shall wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall #be no more.” The Rev. G. Miller, the body having been laid in tjie grave, said: “Forasmuch as it hath pleased Almighty God to take out. of this world the soud of our brother departed, we therefore commit his body to the ground, earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust, looking for the general resurrection on the last day and the life of the world to come, and believing that as Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him.” Prayer was offered and the Bendiction was pronounced. THE LAST POST. Staff-sergeant L. Baker then sounded “The Last Post.” The chief mourners were the members of the family, including the three sons— Messrs W. W. J. N. f and F. G. Mpssey (sons), and Mr John Massey (brother). MASONIC SERVICE. WELLINGTON, May 14. Following the ecclesiastical service at the graveside, the Masonic service was read by the Deputy Grand Master of the New Zealand Constitution (Bro. Oliver Nicholson), assisted by Bros. W. G. Girling, H. L. Michel. J. A. Nash, and the Rev. W. Shiror, who pronounced the Benediction. REVERENT MIEN OF CROWDS. WELLINGTON. May 15. The arrangements for yesterday’s funeral passed off without a hitch throughout, despite the length of the pr jcession, which included about 300 motor cars end eight large lorries laden with floral tributes, r.nd the great amount of organisation needed to handle the traffic and tho allocation of the cars to their respective posi tions, especially in view of the heavy rain immediately preceding the start. It is estimated that fully 70,000 people viewed the procession on the way to Point Halsweil. It certainly neemed as if threequarters of Wellington’s population v as In the streets—all most reverent in mien. There was an entire absence of untoward incidents. Ambulances were placed at Intervals along the route, but their services were fortunately not required. The Maori farewell ceremony In Parliament Building prior to the beginning of (ho pakehu rites is generally conceded by those privileged to bo present to have bo3ii the most impressive part of the whole proceedings, the wonjerful eloquence, clothed In the beautiful words of the Native poet mind throwing all the while man’s orations into the shade of cold formality by contrast. The chiefs breathed love and levcrence for the White Chief gone to his rest, and thankfulness for the benefits that the Native race had reaped through his labours. A temporary pyramidal cover lias been erected over the gunplt whare Mr Massey’s coffin lies, and this is so arranged as to onable the wreaths which could not he taken to the graveside yesterday to be displayed. A guard will be stationed there for the next few days, and it is anticipated

that there will be a large influx of visitors at the week-end. MEMORIAL SERVICES. 1 THE COUNTRY DISTRICTS.. In common with the cities the country districts marked the occasion of the Prime Minister’s funeral by bolding appropriate memorial services. LAST SAD SCENES. GOLDEN GLEAM OF SUNSHINE. WELLINGTON, May 14. As the graveside services ended rain began to fall, and continued for some minutes heavily, while the dead Prime Minister’s late colleagues and many friends took a last 9ad look at the casket in which reposed all that remained of him whom in life they hod loved so well. Then they slowly made their way down to the roadway, and so back to the city and the thousand-and-one cares of public and private life. As they did so the clouds lifted and the sun shone fitfully forth ana poured its slanting golden rays upon the spot where, in lonely grandeur, tne dead leader sleeps, bringing to mind the closing words of the well-known favourite hymn t “Abide With Me”: Heaven’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee; In life, in death, 0 Lord, abide with me. WESTMINSTER ABBEY. IMPRESSIVE MEMORIAL SERVICE. A DISTINGUISHED ASSEMBLY. LONDON, May 14. A largo congregation of New Zealanders and others was present at the memorial service to Mr Massey in Westminster Abbey. His Majesty the King was represented by Viscount Hampden. There were also present representatives of the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Connaught. The members of the Government present weren Mr Baldwin, Mr Austen Chamberlain, Lord Balfour, Viscount Cecil, Mr L. C. Amery, Mr Neville Chamberlain, Mr W. C. Bridgman, Sir Philip Cunliffe-Lister, Mr W. G Ormsby-Gore, while all the other Minister* were represented. Mr Crabb represented Sir James Alien, There were also present Lady Allen and Miss Allen, Lord Liverpool, Lord Lady Gvvendoiin Jellicoe, Sir Frederick Chapman, Sir Donald M'Gavin, Sir lan Hamilton, Sir Campbell Stuart, the Hon. W. P. Reeves, Mr A. F. Roberts, the High Commissioner for Canada (Mr Larkin), and the Australian Agents-General, also representatives of the Australian and Indian High Commissioners, and many distinguished Englishmen. The Duke of Connaught was represented by Colonel Gordon, and the Prince of Wales by Captain Alan Laseelles. Mr Montagu Norman represented the Bank of England. There were also present Sir Arthur and Lady Myers, Admiral Hotham, Lady Russell, and Mr R. S. Forsyth (representing the New Zealand meat producers). The various New Zealand shipping companies were represented.—A. and N.Z. Cable. A fully choral service was conducted by the sub-dean (Canon Carnegie). The service began with the hymn “For All the Saints,” and Psalm x::iii. was, sung. The lesson was from Revelation xxi., 1-7. The anthem was “I Heard a Voice From Heaven” (Goss). The service concluded with the singing of Kipling’s “Recessional’' and (he playing of the “Dead March” in “Saul.*\ MAORIS LAST TRIBUTE. eloquence” of grief. WELLINGTON, May 14. Scenes which will live long in the memory were witnessed in the vestibule at Parliament Buildings to-day. . An hour before the funeral procession left the scenes of the late Mr Massey’s untiring labours, representatives of the Maori race, led by their aged chieftain, gathered round the catafalque, and with that eloquence which has ever been an outstanding feature of the Native pecp.les paid tribute to their departed leader. Their grief was no mere outward show. Sincerity rang m everv word that was uttered. It was a lament typical of a race which is emotional to a The Maoris, with heads bowed and hearts saddened by the loss of a leader who was also a friend, were led by the Minister of Native Affairs (the Hon. J. G. Coates), the Minister of Public Health (the Hon. Sir Maui Pomare), Mr H W. Uru (the member for the Southern Maori District), Mita Taupopoki (of Rotorua), representing the Arawas, Tamaiwhiua Rawhiri (of Thames), and Rere Nicholson (representing the Ngatiruakawa tribe). On one side stood the Ministers of the Crown, and on the other side of the vestibule were gathered in silent reverence the members of the Legislature. There was an impressive silence as Mita Taupopoki, old in years but young in spirit* approached the rail surrounding the bier. For a moment he bowed in silence, and then, raising himself to his full height and w ith tears rolling down his cheeks, he turned slowly to Mr Coates and Sfir Maui Pomare. In a strong foice which at times shook with emotion he delivered himself of an eloquent oration, eulogising in wellchosen and picturesque language the work of the departed statesman. There were times when his voice renched a high pitch and rang through the mighty corridors of Parliament, and many of the sentiments which he expressed found a responsive chord in the hearts of his hearers, who joined with their chieftain. Briefly translated, Mita’s oration was as follows: Ye sons of the departed Prime Minister (referring to Sir Maui Pomare and Mr Coates), we greet you who remain. Great is the grief of the Maori race on this day because of the old man who lies here* Ilia noblo works for Maori and pakeha alike will over remain. Pure well, O greatest of Prime Ministers, in love, in action, in law-making, and in all the attributes which make a great man. Farewell. Farewell. Farewell. Farewell, Divesting himself of tho mats which he vras wearing, the old chieftain approached the railing and reverently laid the mats there, indicating that these were the lasi gifts of the Maori race. Sir Maui Pomare and Mr Coates then ltd the mats on tho coffin, and for some seconds there was an impressive sileoMt

broken only by the sobs of Maori men and women, who bowed their heads in silent tribute. Then Tamaiwhiua, supporting himself with a stick, but bearing himself with all the inherent pride of his race, advanced and added an eloquent tribute, on behalf of the Maoris of the Auckland district. In an oration that plainly came from the heart the old chief declared that it had been through the departed Prime Minister that the Maori race had earned recognition. Through him it had been possible for the Maoris to take part in the Great War. He concluded: “Great is our grief. Our hearts are heavy with sadness.” The ceremony was concluded by an impassioned farewell by Rere Nicholson, and once again the sobs and wailings of the Maoris were heard. Then gradually the Natives, satisfied in their hearts that they had paid a fitting farewell to the great pakeha, slowly ,went their way. IN OTHER CENTRES. THE AUCKLAND SERVICE. AUCKLAND. May 14. The memorial service as a combined tribute to the late Prime Minister which was held in the Town Hall this afternoon concurrently with the funeral of the dead statesman in Wellington was most impressive. One large hall was well filled some time prior to the commencement of proceedings, the gathering being representative of all classes of the community and all shades of political thought. Most of those present were in mourning, and there were numerous manifestations of universal sorrow. A STRIKING TRIBUTE. AUCKLAND, May 14. “A man whose life was so full of service, of devotion, and of knowledge will not be cast as rubbish on the fires of death. God has a place of service for William Ferguson Massey.” The lofty walls of St. Matthew’s Church Bcemed to ring with this striking tribute to the departed statesman from one who knew the Prime Minister well. The preacher was Archdeacon M‘Murray, who was visibly affected by his country’s loss." He recalled the words of a former Prime Minister. “I met Sir William Hall-Jones the other day,” he said, “and his words to me were: ‘Mr Massey was a man with clean hands who never used his public posi 1 tion to further his own private means. He was a man of great kindliness of heart in spite of his plain, almost bluff, manner. Indeed, if I had one fault to find with him it was that sometimes he allowed his kindliness of heart to over-ride his head.’ ” We just need that, said the preacher, to complete the picture of a grand human man. Mr Massey and he had gone to school together in adjoining villages in Ireland, the Archdeacon continued, and they were both unanimous that what had proved of great value had been the fact that they were taught the Bible—that inestimable instrument in developing intelligence and character. CHRISTCHURCH. SERVICE AT CATHEDRAL. CHRISTCHURCH, May 14. Christchurch to-day observed a day of mourning and joined in solemn tributes to the dead Prime Minister. Nearly all the shops in the city were closed for the day, and only a few kept open in the morning. At noon the factories ceased operations and all places of amusement closed. Only such activities as it was impossible to interfere with went on, but evon these ceased during the 10 minutes’ silence from 1 p.m. which was universally observed. The atmospherio conditions were in keeping with the feeling of sadness that pervaded the city. A thick mist hung like a pall during the greater part of the morning, and tho afternoon was very dull, with sombre grey skies. SERVICES IN DUNEDIN. impressive' tributes. Dunedin, in common with the dominion at large, was a city of sorrow on Thursday. In koeping with the solemn nature of the occasion it was a dull, quiet, mournful day with a soft rain falling in the afternoon, Nature allying herself with man to provide {n appropriate atmosphere for the last loyal rlbutes of respect to the honoured memory Of the late Prime Minister. Flags flown at half-mast drooped listlessly, and the closing of shops and business premises gave the oity an unwonted air of quiet.. At 1 o’clook all tram and railway traffic stopped for 10 minutes, but the period of silence enjoined by Sir Francis Bell was not gener-

ally observed, owing no doubt to the insufficient notice whjch was given of the request. Shortly before 2 o’clock silent crowds commenced to file into First Church, Knox Church, and St. Paul’s Cathedral, where the local. memorial services were held, and where finely expressed tributes were paid to the dead leader whose body was being conveyed to its last resting place on an eminence overlooking Wellington Harbour. Altogether, the local observances were in full accord with the spirit of the day.