THE D.I.C.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume VI, Issue 1808, 29 November 1919, Page 7

THE D.I.C.

FATHER CHRISTMAS'S ARRIVAL WATCHED BY GREAT CROWDS. ENTHUSIASTIC RECEPTION. Thousands of children and thousands of "grown-ups" blocked the footpaths and streets in front of the D.I.C. yesterday afternoon, when Father Christmas arrived to open the season with which his name is associated. Children of all sizes and all ages'were present. The crowd extended along Cashcl Street from High Street to Colombo Street, and filled the whole of the triangle in front of Ihe D.l.C.'s splendid buildings. Shortly before four o'clock, the time fixed for the arrival of their white-bearded genial friend, the youngsters became so eager and restive that order was maintained only with difficulty. It had been expected by many that he would come by airplane, but it was explained that although the great flat roof of the D.1.C., extending from Cashel Street to Lichfield Street, is admirably adapted as an alighting place for airplanes, the art of flying is not sufficiently advanced to enable the roof to be taken advantage of. Father Christmas came in a large, luxurious motor-car, accompanied by his attendant. He was heralded by the cry, "Here he comes," and hqwas greeted by little waving hands, by caps thrown into the air, by shrill cheers, and by bright faces. One golden-haired, blue-eyed boy presented him with a bouquet of roses. He showered blessings from his car, and then slowly walked through the crowding children into the D.I.C. buildings, uu the wide staircase, and on to the.first floor, where he was enthroned. There he received the homage of thousands of the most loyal subjects' any monarch has, ruled. Me will occupy his throne daily up to Christinas Eve. The event was watched outside by manv passers-by, and all the windows and balconies were fringed with faces. It was an animated and unusual scene, and it showed beyond all doubt that Father Christinas al the D.I.C. is the most popular institution in Christchurch, as far as the young people are concerned. .11