THE GOVERNOR'S FAREWELL.

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume XXXIX, Issue 12927, 22 November 1912, Page 3

THE GOVERNOR'S FAREWELL.

(Per Press Association.)

WELLINGTON, last night. Over 3000 attended a farewell gathering in the Town Hall this evening to Lord and Lady Islington. The Mayor (Mr D. McLaren) presided, and paid a graceful tribute to their Excellencies, saying they had "stolen their way into our hearts and made themselves masters of our affections." Though their stay had been short, they had interested themselves at every stage in conserving and advancing the institutions, aspirations, and needs of the people. He recognised the high capacity of I/brd Islington in civic government, and appreciated the great interest he had taken in all phases of New Zealand public life. In many respects he was a director and adviser whom it would be impossible to replace. His speeches had embodied sound Imperialism, free from cant, which led New Zealanders to extend the hand of_ friendship to other portions of the Empire. Lady Islington also, by her interest in the welfare of tho women and children, had endeared herself to every truehearted woman and spirited man. They had each beeh true representatives of his Majesty, and true helpers and guides to the destinies of the country. , He was sure his Excellency's life in future would ever be a movement upward in the interests of Imperial business.. The Minister for Internal Affairs (Hon. H. D. Bell), on behalf of the Government and country, wished their Excellencies a tender and grateful farewell. Appreciative speeches were also given by Mr R. JF letcher, who said Lord Islington was the best Governor New Zealand ever had, and Mr T. M. Wilford, M.P., who declared that their Excellencies had "made good," and by Mr James Trevor.

Replying, Lord Islington heartily thanked the audience for expressions of loyalty and personal regard. His ideas had been to promote national power and Imperial unity. As Governor he had endeavored to assist the progress of the country in every stage. He emphasised the importance of agricultural development for this country. " It was its very blood and marrow. Colonising was still needed, and a wise immigration policy should be prosecuted. Population ' and development were guarantees of national security. Having presided over three Governments, he desired to express the pleasure with which he had worked with each. He had been interested in the establishment of the defence system, and believed that if it received the hearty co-operation of the people it would be a great help to the country and a source of great moral good. The naval problem required to be faced in the future, but, however decided, he was sure it would be in the direction of full co-operation with the other portions of the Empire and the Homeland. . "

In. conclusion he heartily thanked one and all for the courtesy and co-opera-tion extended to him during his stay. Lady Islington also added a few words of thanks. She hoped New Zealanders would not lose the qualities of respect and veneration for what was old, good, and beautiful.

The greatest heartiness characterised the gathering, which concluded with the singing of the "National Anthem."