YOUNG NEW ZEALAND

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 18583, 18 December 1934, Page 13

YOUNG NEW ZEALAND

PARADE FOR THE DUKE A COLORED!, PICTURE WONDERFUL RECEPTION (Per Press Association.) WELLINGTON, this day. Ten thousand sturdy young New Zealanders, drawn from schools and different organisations in Wellington city united at, Newton Park to-day to extend to the Duke of Gloucester such a welcome as can come only from the throat of a rising generation, it was a remarkable demonstration, and a colorful moving picture of young New Zealand at its enthusiastic best. Great thoughtfulness was shown by His Royal Highness in appearing in the distinctive uniform of a colonel of the tenth Hussars, and for 75 minutes every eye was fixed on him. Ho took the march past from the foot of the steps of the Royal enclosure, and saluted each leader as the division passed him. The marching 'was first-rate, and in harmony with the kaleidoscopic: variety of the school and organisation uniforms. Acting strictly to whistled signals, the children carried out the programme witli exactitude, but this did not restrain the river of enthusiasm which was subsequently displayed, In accordance with his usual practice, the Duke found time to chat with several cot cases from the Wellington Hospital, who arc sufferers from infantile paralysis and belong to a special class conducted at the institution by the Edtication Board. One little boy, Abie Bvles, who was aide to walk, received the thrill of a lifetime when the Duke shook him by Ihe hand. A brief address was delivered to tho children by the Prince, who made his First public' extemporary speech in New Zealand. “Bovs and girls of Wellington,’’ ho said, “I thank you for giving mo this opportunity of seeing you this morning. [ know some of you have had to start very early in order to get here. T appreciate that very much. I know also that you have just finished your examinations. [ hope you have all been successful in defeating' the examiners.’’ (Bond laughter.) “Now, boys and girls, I take this opportunity of wishing you a happy Christmas, anil I hope you will enjoy your holidays.” The Duke then paused for a few seconds adding: “I have succeeded in getting an extra day’s holiday for you at the end of your' Christmas vacation.” The announcement was received with unbounded enthusiasm, the children firing hats into the air and waving their arms, and shouting with delight. The hills girdling Newton Park will long echo the •Mooring His Royal Highness was given at the conclusion of the function. On foot, he had inspected each division, in the vast group, and at the finish circled the ground by car, but inevitably the previously staid ranks were broken, youngsters swarming to both . siubs to give the Royal visitor a final cheer. The remainder of the afternoon' is at the Duke’s own disposal, and arrangements have been made for him 1o have a swim at a secluded beach 20 miles out. ■