THE ROYAL TOUR.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XLV, Issue 12063, 27 May 1920, Page 8

THE ROYAL TOUR.

Second Edition

United Press Association— By Electric Telegraph—Copyright. Received May 27, 10 a.m. Melbourne. May' 27 After the procession the Prince attenderf the Governor-General’s ball at Government House, where there was a brilliant assembly. Though certain proceedings at the landing were shortened and it was shorn of a good deal of ceremony owing to the delayed arrival, there was a groat outburst of cheering and wild enthusiasm among the packed multitude gathered round St. Kilda pier, which was probably more appreciated by the Prince than a more elaborate procedure His Royal Highness showed lively appreciation of the great and spontaneous people’s welcome which greeted him on first setting his toot on Australian soil. The route of the procession was lined With soldiers and sailors who, during the long wait, found considerable difficulty in keeping f,the impatient crowds in check and clearing the way for the procession. As it passed the jam was so great that many women fainted. Arrangements had been made for a civic reception in the Town Hall, where there was a great gathering, but at the Prince’s suggestion the Lord Mayor’s address and the Prince’s reply were taken as read, the Prince handing his reply to the Lord Mayor with a tow words of thanks for the City’s splendid reception. . , The Prince said “You don’t mind if I don’t read it, do you? I will see you again, won’t I?” During the progress the returned soldiers made many demands on the Prince’s attention which were readily accorded. One insisted on a handshake and when the Prince tendered his left bund he demanded his right, and the Prince laughingly conceded it. When Collins btreet was reached the measured tread of the prooesison was abandoned and the remainder of the journey was made at a rapid pace. Special provision was made along the route for wounded soldiers and veterans, For the loss of the spectacular effect of the entrance of the Renown, which clear weather would have provided, the people condole themselves that the Prince landed";in in one of Australia’s own warships. This consolation made up a good deal for the public disappointment. The Renown misse l getting inside the schedule time by a near margin. She held clear weather till the entrance was approached, arriving in good time, then the fog swept down for some hours, and it looked as if the day’s programme would be spoiled. Later it was arranged that the Prince bo taken aboard the destroyer Anzac, which had considerable difficulty in discovering the warship owing to the density of the fog. The Prince was informed that great crowds were awaiting the procession and he heartily concurred and assisted in pushing arrangements to get to St. Kilda in time to save the waiting people from being disappointed. The mist considerably cleared in :the bay by the time the Anzac started for cb” city, enabling her to make a fast run, thus saving the ailuation. The city at night surpassed all previous efforts in the way of illuminations, public and private buildings being brilliantly outlined and the streets ablaze with coloured lights and designs. The warships and other vessels in the harbour provided a fine spectacle. The weather late in the day made amends for the misty morning and the night was line. Dense admiring crowds paraded the streets till early morning, showing an exuberance of spirit which towards the close here and there developed into horse play and practical jokes The Prince’s engagements to-day include a levee and investiture at Government House, the presentation of the Federal Parliament addresses and a banquet.