A "WELCOME HOME" RECEPTION.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume IV, Issue 1060, 5 July 1917, Page 4

A "WELCOME HOME" RECEPTION.

A very cordial and cheerful welcome home was accorded to Mrs Massey and Lady Ward at the Sydney Street Soldiers' Club yesterday afternoon (says Tuesday's Wellington "Post"). Her Excellency the Countess of Liverpool was present, and there was a very large attendance of members of committee, hostesses, and helpers at the club. A dainty tea was provided. Mrs Coleridge, who was acting-president of the club in the absence of Mrs Massey, spoke of the pleasure which all had in welcoming home Mrs Massey and Lady Ward, and said that it would be very interesting to all present if they would give some idea ot the work "going on at present in England. Her Excellency Lady Liverpool also expressed her pleasure at the return of the travellers, and mentioned how much they had been missed. Mrs Massey, in reply, said that she was more than glad to be safely at home among so many friends again. One of their greatest privileges in England had been to visit our New Zealand soldiers in hospital and to help in various ways. The brightness and cheerfulness of the men was wonderful, and they had made a splendid reputation for themselves, of which everybody might be proud. Lady Ward, in replying to the welcome accorded, also'mentioned the kindness of English people to our soldiers. Among other beautiful homes where they were entertained was that of Sir lan and Ladv Hamilton, where about three hundred were entertained each week at afternoon tea, and a good concert. The Soldiers' Club in Russell Square and the Convalescent Home for officers at Brighton were also described by Lady Ward, and all present realised how very well arranged and comfortable they were. Ladv Ward concluded by saying how pleasant it was to be home and among friends once more. A short musical programme then followed, in which Mrs A. Myers, Mrs N. Nathan, Miss Moran, and Mr H. Harcourt took part, the accompanists being Mrs Esther Fisher, Miss Shi>. tcliiTe, and Mrs Miraras. Miss Massey was with Mrs Massey, and Mrs Bernard Wood with Lady Ward. Mrs J. P. Luke, the Mayoress, was among those present during the afternoon.