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Taranaki Daily News, 4 May 1920, Page 5

AH ENTHUSIASTIC WELCOME.

LARGE CROWDS EVERYWHERE.

The Prince of Wales visited Taranaki yesterday, and everywhere His Royal Highness received a remarkable reception. New Plymouth was visited first, and an enormous gathering at Pukekura Park provided an enthusiastic welcome. The return of the Royal visitor to the railway station, and the farewell there, witnessed one of the most memorable scenes ever known in New Plymouth. Stratford was next visited, and here the Prince met with another splendid reception. Then Hawera expressed its loyalty in a demonstration unparalleled in the history of the southern end of the province, while the parting tribute from Taranaki came at Patea.

NEW PLYMOUTH.

A REMARKABLE WELCOME. PUKEKURA PARK FUNCTION. The great day, which had been looked forward to very eagerly by young and old alike, on which the Heir to the British Throne was to visit New Plymouth, hag at length come and gone, but it is «afe to say the memory of it, and the welcome accorded to the young Prince, together with the pleasure afforded by the very free and gracious manner in which His Royal Highness mingled with those who were assembled on the ground where the reception took place, will never be effaced from the minds of any who were present on the historic occasion, and the story of the visit will be told for generations to come. In spite of the fact that after all the notice of the hour at which the Prince would arrive was very short, and in spite also of the very impropitious state of the weather at an early hour yesterday morning, it was soon evident that the residents of New Plymouth and thb surrounding districts had made up their minds to "see the Prince," and to give him a reception worthy of the chief town of the prosperous province of Taranaki.

Business people were early astir putting the finishing touches on the decorations of their premises, and it was surprising how much was actually accomSlished in the master of general street ecorations in so short a space of time. Loyal hearts made light of the inconvenient* of having to "get ready" in a tittle time, and by the hour for the arrival of the Royal train the streets and buildings along the route marked out for the procession were gaily bedecked with greenery and bunting.

From the railway station to the Park flags of all descriptions fluttered a welcome to the King's son, and the expectant hearts of his loyal subjects were ready and eager to burst forth in a tumultous cheer at the first glimpse gained of the slight figure of him who one day will sit upon the Throne of the world's mightiest Empire.

/ From an early hour crowds of people from til points of the compass came Streaming into town. Most of them fealked the route and noted the decoration* which had been put up, but all made for the Park where the ceremon*** >, were to take place. THE MILITARY PARADE. The scene on the Recreation Grounds was kaleidoscopic, as the different sections of the parade were marshalled in their appointed positions, and as the general public gathered on the terraces, which were crowded with those eager to Sit.a good view of the whole proceedThe arrangement of the parade was splendidly planned, and as carried out, produced a very pleasing effect. The Royal Stand, at the north end of the ground, facing right down the arena, was the point from which the whole arrangement radiated. Immediately on the left of the pavilion were the Maori war veterans, under the command of Captains Wilson and Black. Beside these were a number of members of the flonth African War Veterans' Association, under Lieut. C B S.Russell. The returned soldiers came next, though the unit, which was a large one, was divided in two, the second half being on the light of the pavilion. Lt.-Col. Weston, D.5.0., was in charge of the parade and the other officers Were. Lt.-Col. Archdeacon Evans, Lt.Col. Home, 0.8.E, Major Brewster, MC, Major Joll, Captain Dallinger, M.C., Captain King, DJ.C., Croix-de-Guerre, Captain Hartnell, Captain Macdiarmid, Cap-tain-Chaplain Gavin, Lt. Andrews, V.C, tt Hopkins, MC, Lt. Ewing, Lt. PearIcm, Lt Oliver, Lt. Hayward, Lt. Austin, Lt. Bailey, and Lt. Shephard. Uext to the soldiers were Scouts, including the New Plymouth and St. Mary's troops, and a party of bridge-bnilders from the Inglewood troop. The latter erected a double-lock tressel bridge with handrail, which they put up in surprisingly quick time. The Scouts were in command of Commissioner W. H. Humphreys, and Hon- ComAuttioner Major W. F. Sandford. . THE YOUNG PEOPLE. In the centre of the grounds, immediately in front of the Royal dais, were the children of the primary schools, who, MMer the direction of the teachers and eeinmittees, were formed up in a representation of the Prince of Wales' feathers, and with the pampas plumes' which each child carried, they made a very effective display. Other spectacular displays were made by the Technical College students who formed the letters "H-B-H." on the southern terrace, and the girls of the High School, who formed the word "welcome" on the eastern terrace, but the fact that the public crowded on the ends of the terraces nearest the Royal stand had the effect of leaving these designs somewhat isolated. On fM «Utt 9t,9» Mm 4 the cemsaqx of

Boys' High School Cadets, which formed the Prince's guard of honor, was drawn up near the entrance to the arena. These were in charge of Captain Ryder, Lts. Diprose and Bertrand. The next In order were the Senior Cadets, the 90th Coy- being in command of Lt. A, J. Clarke and the 89th (Technical. College) and 92nd (Waitara) Coys, being in charge of Lt- Kempsell. The balance of the High School Cadets, with their fife and drum band, were drawn up next, under command of Lt. Saxton. The Citizens' Band (under Bandmaster P. W. G. McLeod), which played the music for the occasion, was placed immediately on the right of the stand. A number of the specially invited guests occupied seats on the Royal dais, • while the rest were accommodated on i a stand specially erected just behind | the veterans and returned soldiers on ! the left of the stand, while the relatives of deceased soldiers were given seats along the first terrace on the eastern side of the Park. THE INVITED GUESTS. Following is the list of the invited ■ guests:—The Mayoress (Mrs. James- ! Clarke), Crs. W. A. Collis, J. W- Hayden, F. J. Hill, W. F. Short, A. S. Brooker, j A. E. Sykcs, R. L. Parkin, and H. VI Griffiths and the wives of councillors, ■ Mr. and Mrs. F. T. Bellringer, Mr. , and Mrs. R. H. Bartley, Mr. and Mrs. ; W. H- Cock, Mr. and Mrs. R. Day, Mr. and Mrs. J. Blair Mason, Mr. and Mrs. Ronald H. Quilliam, Mr. and Mrs. D. Hutehen, Mr. J. B. Rov, Mr. and Mrs. E. Dockrill; Mr. and Mrs. R. Cock, Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Browne, Mr and Mrs. C. H. Burgess, Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Wilson, the Hon 0. and Mrs. Samuel, the Hon. T. and Mrs. Kellv, Mr and Mrs. S. G. Smith, M.P., Mr. and Mrs. W. T. Jennings, MP., Captain and Mrs- Dallinger, Lieut. Andrews, V.C., and Mrh. Andrews, Lieut.-Col. and Mrs. Evans, the president of the Veterans' Association and lady, the president of the South African Veterans' Association and lady, the president of the Red Cross Society and lady, the president of the St. John Ambulance Association, the president of the Women's National Reserve, the president of the Women's Patriotic Committee, the president of the Victoria League, the president of the Mothers of Empire League, the president of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the president of the Society for the Health of Women and Children, the president of the Medical Association and lady, the president of the Ministers' Association and lady, the Very Rev. Dean McK'enna, the ministers of the Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian, and Baptist churches and the officer of the Salvation Army and their ladies, the I president of the Workers' Council and lady, the chairman of the New Plymouth Patriotic Committee and lady,'the rhairman of the Repatriation Board and lady, the chairman of the Harbor Board and lady, the chairman of the Education Board and lady, the chairman of the Hospital and Charitable Aid Board and lady, the chairman of the High Schools Board and lady, the chairman of the Fire Board and lady, the chairman of the Employers' Association and lady, the presidert of the Chamber of Commerce and lady, the president of the. New Plymouth Ratepayers' Association, the president of the Fitzroy Ratepayers' Association, the president of the own Progressive Association, th&/~pre.!dent of the Westown Progressive Association, the chairman of the Carnegie Institute, Mr. and Mrs. T. A/B. Bailey. Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Burt/ n , Mr. and Mrs. J. J. O'Shea. Mr. *nd Mrs. W. Brodie, Mr and Mrs. T./C. List, Mr. and Mrs- W. J. Pcnn, /Mr. and Mrs. I Richardson, the chairma* of the Tarnnaki County Council, t*e chairman of , the Egmont County Council, the chairI man of the Clifton Cottnty Council, the I chairman of the Opur/ake Town Board. j the Mayor and Mayoress of Waitara. | the town clerk of /Waitara and lady. f the Mayor and Mayoress of Ing]ewond, the town clerk of/inglcwood and lady, the chairman of ttte School Committees' Association and lady, the chairman of the Technical Colfiegra Advisory Committee and lady, Mir H. Weston, the president of the Polynesian Society, the Mayors of Strafford. Hawera, Eltham, Patea, and Wanfrgniu, Captain and Mrs. Waller, Mr. ami's Mrs. E. Gilmonr, the chairman of the uVaitara Harbor Board, and Mr. and Mrsj, i„. A- Nolan. THE PRINZE'S ARRIVAL. Promptly to f/imc the Royal train steamed in ij tint station at 10 a.m. By this time tine weather cleared, it was fine throughout the proceedings, and a glimpse of \ft. Egmont added to the beauty elf the surroundings. All ceremonies ware dispensed with here I The Royal visiter, with his personal staff and attendants, was directed to the I waiting motors anil'then began the pro- | gress to the Recrteation ground. The I Prince wore a ligho grey check suit with ! a soft felt hat whiLh was set characterj istically to one Bidi of the head, and all his staff were in iivilian clothes. The boyish face of His 1 toyal Highness, made familiar by many life-like portraits of him which have be« n shown everywhere, was easily distingv ishable, and in the car with Rear Adn nral Sir Lionel Halsey, K.C.M.G., K.C V.0.. C.8., chief of , jiift who was alreoldf familiar ttunost

New Zealanders, liis appearance was greeted everywhere with tumultuous acclamation.

As the Royal car came to the entrance of the arena there was a great shout of welcome, which the Prince acknowledged with characteristic simplicity. In a moment he had alighted before the Royal pavilion and was presented to the Mayor (Mr. James Clarke) Iby Sir Wm. Fraser, K. 8.. Minister in charge of the tour. The Mayor then presented the Mayoress, the Councillors, and Council officials, and the party then mounted the dais. Accompanying the Prince, as a personal staff, in addition to Sir Lionel Halsey, were Lt.-Col. E. W. M. Greig.. C.M.G., C.V.0.. D.5.0., M.C (secretary), Sir Godfrey Thomas, Bart, M.V.O. (personal secretary) Captain Dudley North, CM.G., M.V.O. (extra equerry), Captain Claude N. Hamilton, D 5.0., M.V.0.. Captain the Hon. Piers Legh, 0.8. E., M.V.O. (equerries), and Captain Tahu Rhodes, attache for the New Zealand tour. Lt.Col. Melville, C.8., C.M.0., D.5.0., O.C. the District, also accompanied the Prince.

THE CIVIC ADDRESS. When the Royal party had ascended the dais, ataid the plaudits of the assemblage, the National Anthem was ple.yed and then the town clerk (Mr. V. T. Bellringer) read the address of welcome to the Prince, the text of waicn wt.s as follows: To His Royal Highness, Edward, Albert Christian George Andrew Patrick, David, Prince of Wales, Earl of Chester in the Peerage of the United Kingdom, Duke of Cornwall in the Peerage of England, Duke of Rothesay, Earl of Carrick, and Baron of Renfrew in the Peerage of Scotland, Lord of the Isles and Great Stewart of Scotland, K.G., G.M.M.G., M.C, etc., etc., May it please your Royal Highness, We, the Mayor, Councillors, and Burgesses of the Borough of New Plymouth respectfully tender to Your Royal Highness a most cordial welcome to our borough, the chief town of the provincial district of Taranaki, and the settlement founded by the pioneers who came to this country from England under the auspices of The Plymouth Company of New Zealand. With gratitude we acknowledge the esteem for his people which prompted His Majesty the King to sanction the visit of Your Royal Highness to tn;s Dominion and we desire to express our appreciation of the compliment paid us by your presence here to-day. As New Zealanders by (birth or adoption we are proud to feel that -by efforts and sacrifices in the Great War our people have been able to demonstrate that although they reside in a land by situation more remote from the Mother Country than any other 'part of His Majesty's Dominions, they yield to none in loyalty to the Crown and attachment to the Empire The visit of Your Royal Highness will undoubtedly be the means of intensifying the spirit of goodwill and of strengthening the bonds of affection which so happily exist and which knit us to the Motherland. We feel assured that the impressions of this Dominion and of the varied needs of its people which you will derive from your all too brief stay amongst us will be of the greatest value to Your Royal Highness in the discharge of the duties of your exalted calling and must necessarily be fruitful of good to us who have our homes in this outlying portion of the Empire. That your visit may be in every respect enjoyable and satisfactory is our earnest wish and we trust that when leaving New Zealand you will carry away most pleasant recollections of the land and of its loyal and devoted people. Finally wo pray that Your Royal Highness may be blessed with length of days, good health, and a full measure of happiness and that all parts of the Empire may enjoy an unbroken era of peace and prosperity in which to heal the wounds of the deplorable world war through which we have so recently passed. Given under the common seal of the Corporation of the Mayor, Councillors, and Burgesses of the Borougli of New Plymuth, New Zealand, (his third day of May, 1920—James Clarke, Mayor, F. T. Bellringer, Town Clerk,

companiment of the band, then sang tie Prince of Wales anthem, which evidently pleased His Royal Highness, PRESENTATION OF WAR MEDALS, The Prince then presented medals for war service to the following North Taranaki men, conversing with each man .is he pinned the decoration on his coat:— Mr. T. J. Billing (as next-of-kin for the late L-Corp. E. A. Billing), M.M. Mr. G. Cadinan (as next-of-kin for Bom. A. C. Cadman), M.M. Sergt. F. 0. Edgecombe, M.MTrooper W. G. Fargic, M.M. L.-Corp. J. G. Gould, M.M. Sergt. W. J. Haldane, M.M. Private E. J. Herbert, M.S.M. Sergt. H. L. Kasper, M.M. Private W. F.. Lowe, M.M. Private C. W. Ray nor, M.M. Private C. Soffe, M.M. Rfm. A. L. Sturmey, D.C.M. Private E. J. Williams, M.M. The men were warmly applauded as they left the Royal platform. INSPECTION OF THE PARADE. As the Prince descended from the dais, there was a fresh outburst of enthusiasm and this was renewed again and again as it was seen the first attention was given to the returned soldiers. The whole of the men filed past His Royal Highness and he shook hands with each one, stopping to question, here and there, where a man bore signs of having bcr-n wounded, or where the ribbons worn denoted service throughout almost the whole period of the war. These little touches of personal interest appealed to the people and tended to intensify the enthusiasm of the proceedings. There was great cheering when Lt. Andrews, V.C., was presented and the Prince spent quite a few minutes conversing with the distinguished officer. Sister McAllura, a returned nurse, was also presented to His Royal Highness.

The next to receive the attention of the Prince were the Maori war veterans, in whom the Royal visitor displayed great interest, chatting with many of them and looking at their war medals. After inspecting the South African war veterans the Prince came to the scouts, with whom lie seemed particularly struck, and he pleased them and made a very popular hit whicli brought cheers from the crowd, by walking over the bridge that the boys had erected. The Prince then passed right round the top of the children forming the feathers, and proceeded to inspect the Guard of Honor of Higli School cadets, and then the balance of the parade of Senior and High School cadets, each O.C. being presented to the Prince in turn.

This being done, and the programme being still well inside of schedule time, the Prince turned his attention to the children, and was conducted right through their ranks by Mr. H. A. Stratford, the youngsters shouting themselves hoarse with cheering at the pleasure of having His Royal Highness right in their midst. After this the Prince walked to the stand for the invited guests, who cheered him vigorously, and Mr. and Mrs. C. 11. Burgess, both of whom wore the M.B.E. Order in token of their war work, were presented to the Prince, who chatted for a moment with Mrs. Burgess. The Mayors of Inglewood and Waitara (Messrs. J. Sutherland and R. Morgan), the chairman of the Taranaki County Council (Mr- J. S. Connett), the chairman of the Kew Plymouth Harbor Board (Mr. Newton King), and Mr. S. G. Smith, MP., were also in turn presented to His Royal Highness.

The Prince then returned to stand for a few moments in front of the Royal pavilion. The camera fiends had been busy during the progress of His Royal Highness around the grounds, but he very good naturally gave the returned soldiers who had cameras carte blanche to snap him as he stood amongst his attendants. He lit a cigarette to fortify himself for the ordeal, which he went through with an unconcern born of usage to the custom. He oven told one operator whose camera gave him some trouble, how to complete the operation. He al'o autographed the pnybook of one returned soldier who was venturesome enough to proffer a request for his natureDEPARTURE FROM THE PARK. Before entering his- car to return to the station the wives of the borough councillors, and a few other notable guests who were on the platform, were presented to the Prince. On stepping into the ear there was again a great outburst of enthusiastic cheering, and the Prince stood up, or rather was held up by Admiral .Halsey, and with bared head' he acknowledged the plaudits of the throng. The cars quickly fdled up, and as the party left the grounds the scene was omvof unbounded enthusiasm. There was a rush from the Park in the direction of the railway station, and the streets were thronged with those eager to get another glimpse of the Prince that shall be King. THE FINAL SCENES.

THE PRINCE'S REPLY. His Royal Highness, vdio spoke in clear and distinct tones, replied as follows: — Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen,— "* Your cordial .address has touched me very mucl;,' and I thank you most sincerely fc,r your good wishes witli regard to. myself. I saw much of the New Zealand Division i.t different timer/during the great war, and I am .delighted now to he able to congratulate in person, not only your troops, but also all of you on your / splendid contribution to the fighting strength of the EmpireNew Plymouth, as you remind me, was founded by some of the earliest of the pioneers who settled in the Dominion. When I look at the development of this wonderful dairying country, I am amazed at the enterprise and energy which have achieved so much in little more than two gen (■rations. I have been interested to hear also that yon are hoping to develop an oil-field in this neighbourhood. In this and in nil your industries I wish you much prosperity and success. I know that no part of the Empire is more deeply devoted to British ideals and Imperial unity than this Dominion. I appreciate most deeply the assurances of loyalty to my father, the Kinor. which you have given me to-day. and I will not fail ' t'n convey them to His MajestyDESIGN OP ADDRESS. The address was a beautifully executed piece of work in the form of an album portfolio. The front or title page bore the address and titles of His Royal Highness, and was surmounted by the Borough Coat of Arms, and had the Prince of Wales' Feathers at the foot. The work is done in six colors and the scheme of illumination includes a border design of flax, pampas grass, and supplejack. The succeeding pages, on which the text of the address is lettered in the centre, are embellished with views of the Breakwater and Moknu River, Mt. Egmont, Pukekura Park, the Boys' High School. Technical College, the Post Office, and the Municipal Buildings, the Borough seal being attached at'the bottom right-hand corner, over the signatures of the Mayor and Town Clerk- The address is beautifully bound in full-calf of royal purple color, the front has a lining border of gold, with the Prince of Wales' cre&t in a gold circle in. the centre.* The name of the town and the letters "N.Z." are stamped in gold at the bottom right-hand corner. The massed choir on the western terrace *M tie school children, .to the sc

At the station there was a dense pack of people waiting to give the Royal visiter a good send-oll'. No sooner had he ■alighted from his car than there was a rush for the platform, which the fewpolice officers in attendance would have been powerless to stop h.-.d they wished to. However, there appeared to be a common understanding that the people should be allowed to see the very last of the departing visitor and they were admitted into the station premises without hindrance, and were even directed across the line in the station yard at the rear of the train by Admiral Halsey himself

A few minutes after 11 o'clock the Royal train, which consisted of eight carriages and a van, and drawn by two engines, the foremost of which carried a. small Royal Standard, left the station, and the last that the cheering crowds of loyal New Plymouth citizens saw of their future King was the Prince, with Sir Lionel Halsey, on the rear platform of his carriage, smiling and bowing his acknowledgments of the demonstration of loyalty made towards him. Crowds gathered' about the vantage points to watch the train as it passed along on its way through tlie eastern suburb of the town. Thus ended the ceremonies in

connection with one of the most notable days in the history of New Plymouth.

ENTERTAINING THE CHILDREN. After the departure of the Prince, attention was directed to providing some refreshments and entertainment. Good plans had been made through the Education Department by the school teachers and committees, who saw that the children of both town and country were provided with buns, pies, and tea. About two o'clock in the afternoon the children were gathered together for some further refreshments which had been orovided by Mrs. C. H, Surgess and her

helpers. The girls were grouped in one p ace and the boys in another, and they "led past a long table erected near the sports pavilion and each child received a drink of ginger beer, some fruit and a bag of sweets. Nearly two thousand children were catered for in this way. The children were entertained with games and races till the middle of the afternoon when they gradually dispersed, after having had a very enjoyable time. When the country children arrived in the morning they were also given some light refreshment before proceeding to the Park. JOURNEY TO TARANAKI. CURIOSITY BEINGS ADVENTURE. LADY ON THE ROYAL TRAIN. The Press Association agent with the noyal party thus describes the journey through Taranaki to New Plymouth:— Early though the hour was as the train passed through Hawera, Eltham, Stratford and Inglewood en route, to New Plymouth, considerable crowd;, children predominating, gathered at the railway stations evidently intent on getting at least one good view of the Royal equipage and mindful of the danger that at the big demonstration later in the day they might get shut out from the picture.

versed for a few minutes. Meanwhile the National Anthem was sung enthusiastically by the crowds, the combined choirs leading the singing, accompanied by the orchestra under Mr. 0. 11. Fox-, and the Klthaiu .Salvation Army Boys' Home- , THE ADDRESS. The, Mayor, in presenting the Prince with the address, enclosed in a beautiful volume of photographic views of local places of interest, addressed His Royal Highness as follows: "It is witli pride and pleasure that we of Stratford and surrounding districts welcome you here to-day, and our only regret is that your slay with us is so very short. New Zealand prides herself on being the most British of all the Dominions of the Empire, and the people before you and the children are good samples of her citizens. From them I beg your Royal Highness to accept this album as a token of loyalty, and as a little memento of your kind visit." The following was the text of the address:—

"We, the undersigned, on behalf of the Mayor, Councillors and Burgesses of Stratford, and the chairman, councillors, and inhabitants of the Counties of Stratford and Whangsmomom - ., humbly beg to express to you the loyalty to the Crown, of the subjects of these portions of His Majesty's Dominions, and also the deep affection and respect for your Royal Highness personally. "We sincerely appreciate the honor of the visit you are paying to the Dominion and particularly to our town of Stratford, so named after Strat-ford-on-Avon, the birthplace of the famous \yilliam Shakespeare, and we. evtend to your Royal Highness a most hearty welcome. "We desire you to accept this album with the views of local interest contained there, in remembrance of your visit here. "We pray that the blessing of Almighty God may rest upon yon, both now and hereafter, in bearing the responsibility of your high calling for the best welfare of our Empire. "We have the honor to be your Highness' most obedient servants, — James Watson McMillan (Mayor of Stratford), Edward Walter (chairman. Stratford County Council), Norman Robert Cleland (chairman, Whangamomona County Council). THE PRINCE'S REPLY. His Royal Highness replied as follows: — Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen, — "I thank you most sincerely for the terms of the address which you have just read to me, and 1 am very glad to have had this opportunity r i coming to Stratford. Although I am, unfortunately, unable to pay a vis't to the neighbourhood, the album o! views which you have so kindly presented !■> me will enable me to form some id-n of its natural beauties, and it wili always serve as a pleasant recollection of my visit lam very grateful to j on all for this gift. "I will not fail, when T return hone, to convey to my father, the King, your expressions of loyalty am 1 , devotion, and I wish all success and happiness to the inhabitants of Stratford and the surrounding districts." A pleasing incident occurred immediately aftei the ceremony, when Misss Molly McMillan, the three-year-old daughter of the Mayor and Maycress handed His Royal Highness a beautiful button-hole on behalf of the cb Mren, flic Prince smilingly accepted the gift, an J pinned the button-hole in his cox-. WITH THE RETURNED SOLDI M!S. His Royal Highness then stepped from the dais and passed into the Municipal Buildings, where he unveiled the local Rod of Honor, which contains 1 -21 photographs arranged in eight panels, beaut'' fully decorated with flowers and greenery, of men from the district who had made the supreme sacrifice. Tn the corridor of the buildings were assembled over one hundred veterans and returned soldiers, and His Royal Highness shook j hands: with each in turn, and ehatt'd briefly with, several who had been badly wounded or wore a conspicuous medal. Passing through the ranks of the returned soldiers, the Prince then entered the Municipal Chambers where he met °nd conversed with about forty mothers svho had lost sons at the war. His Royal Highness was very moved when conversing with the mothers, and expressed his sincerest sympathy with them in their loss.

One unrehearsed incident of the morning had its beginning at Hawera and in that, deep-rooted curiosity which femininity has always been" supposed to possess in such a marked degree. A lady got on the carriage just to have a look at the quarters provided for travellers in the Royal train. She became so interested that she did not notice the train was moving and when at last she realised the fact alarm took possession of her. However, the officials soothed her and pointed out that not everyone got a ride through tlie country with a real liv,> Prince, and the lady soon calmed down and accepted the position. She left the train at Stratford to await one that would take her home again.. The Royal train made a halt at Waiongona for breakfast, special dining care having been sent out from New Plymouth on Sunday night so that, the meal could be prepared with the minimum of delay and inconvenience. It was a happy thought that prompted .'his step. The cars stood in t!/c midst of green fields dotted with plantations, and Egmont, pushing his snow-clad cone up above the undulations of land to the left, made up a scene of al fresco beauty which elicited the warm commendations of visitors. Breakfast finished, the tram drew out to make New Plymouth on schedule time and begin the real programme of the day.

AT STRATFORD. WELCOMED BY CHEERING CROWDS. DEMONSTRATIONS OF LOYALTY. (From Our Own Correspondent.) .itford, Last Night. Demonstratiu... uf loyalty from a cheering crowd of about 5000 people greeted His Royal Highness on his arrival at Stratford to-day, and the entire programme which had been arranged by the Reception Committee was carried out. The day broke fine but threatening, and throughout the morning there were occasional sun showers, but not sufficient to spoil what was to be a very great event in the history of Stratford. From an early hour trains, motor cars, and horse vehicles poured into the town, all bringing crowds of eager adults and children to see their future King, and to demonstrate to him their loyalty to the British Throne. Broadway Central was closed to traffic all the morning, but in all the side streets long lines of motor cars and vehicles were lined up, giving ample evidence of the number who had come to Stratford from far and near.

The Reception Committee left nothing to chance, and had made very complete arrangements in order that the whole function could be carried out without the slightest hitch. . A space in Broadway Central, leading from the north end of the railway station to the special platform in front of the Bank of New Zealand, was barricaded off in order that a clear passage could be obtained for the Royal party, and other sections were set aside for the exclusive use of the 1700 school children assembled. The decorations left nothing to be desired, and the fine array of Native shrubbery, intermingled with flags and bunting, produced a particularly charming effect. From ail flag, poles in "the borough flags were flying, and in the area through which His Royal Highness and party walked, streamers of flags of the Empire and Allied nations were strung across the street.

On leaving the Chambers, the Mayor invited the Prince to slim the visitors' book, and he appended his signature—"Edward P." Others, including Admiral Halsey, ailso signed the book. The pen with -which. His Royal Highness signed the book is now the valued possesssion of the Mayor.

THE DEPARTURE. On returning to the railway station, His Royal Highness was again greeted by cheering crowds, the route being lined with the school children, who waved their flags and cheered lustily as the Prince walked past, bowing his acknowledgments of their loyalty and devotion- His Royal Highness expressed to Mr- F. Tyrer his ureat pleasure at seeing so many children present. The railway station, which had been opened to the public at the request of His Royal Highness, was crowded with onlookers as the Prince returned to the platform, and when the train drew out at about twenty minutes to one further cheers rent the air. His Royal Highness remained on the platform of the last carriage, waving and bowing to the cheering crowds, until the train was past Feu ton Street and the Royal visit was ', mi end. The Prince spent nearly hnlf-an-honr in Stratford instead of 15 minutes, which was the time allotted,

At 11 o'clock all the retail shops were closed, and from then on the people commenced to select their positions in order to obtain as good a view as possible of the Prince. The school children were given the much appreciated privilege of getting close alongside the barriers, so that the little ones should have the best opportunity of seeing their Prince, while, on the platform were assembled the guests of the Reception Committee, including representatives of the Stratford Borough and County Councils, Eltham Borough and County Councils, and the Whangamomona County Council.

THE ARRIVAL. The pilot train drew into the station at about ten minutes to twelve, and the children, believing it was the Royal train, burst into cheering. Twenty minutes later, however, the Royal train arrived, steaming into the station quietly At once the crowds let themselves .go, and a great outburst of cheering filled the air as the Prince stepped from his carriage. He was introduced to the Mayor (Mr. J- W. McMillan), who presented the borough councillors to His Royal Highness. The party then left the railway platform, and ■ accompanied by the Mayor, the Prince walked slowly through the cheering crowds to the dais, where the presentation of the address took place. The spectacle as the Prince made his way slowly to the dais was one which will live in the minds of the public and the children especially, for many years to come. All of the children had been given flags, which they waved with great enthusiasm as the Prince passed by. On reaching the dais, His Royal Highness was presented to the Mayoress (Mrs. McMillan), with, whom he eon-

THE CHILDREN. The Royal visit was a very notable event in the lives of the children, and in order that they should enjoy the day to the fullest as a day of remembrance for all time, a special programme of sports was carried out in Victoria Park in the afternoon. Children from Eltham and intermediate districts- in the south, Waiongona and intermediate districts in the north, and a.s fur east as Pohokura, came by train, while others reached the town by vehicles of various descriptions. Unfortunately, owing to the blockage of the Whangamomona tunnel, children from further east, than Pohokura were debarred from coming by train. Excellent arrangements had been made for catering for the children, and these were carried out to the satisfaction of all, the country and Convent School children being supplied with lunch and hot cocoa at the Town Hall, and the local public school children at the Stratford High School. Mr. E. Tyrer, headmaster of the Stratford School, and Mr. P. Thomson, chairman of the Children's Committee, were

presented to His. Royal Highness, who expressed his wish 'that the children should have a full holiday, in order that the day should be a memorable one for them. At Victoria Park a big programme of sports and games was carried out, the children enjoying themselves thoroughly. Willing helpers there were in plenty, and the races were carried out with great expedition, most of the children receiving prizes and bags of lollies. The weather cleared beautifully in the afternoon, and the children were able to enjoy the sports in bright sunshine. THE ALBUM. The presentation album which was Stratford's gift to the Prince, was a very fine and artistic piece of workmanship, being bound in leather and finished in blue and gold. On the front cover appeared the coat of arms of the .Stratford Borough, and the words ''Stratford, New Zealand." The various industries of the Dominion were illustrated on the first page, which also contained a map of New Zealand in the centre, an arrow indicating Stratford's position. Views of Broadway, the diesel station, the present Council Chambers, and the previous Council Chambers, the library, public hospital, fire brigade, and hydro-weir appeared on the Municipal page, while views of King Edward Park, Mt. Egmonr, from different aspects, the local Peace celebrations and numerous other scenes were also included, Tho dairy industry—the main stay of Taranaki—was depicted with a fine series of photographs showing the progress of dairying in the district. Interior and exterior views of the Stratford Dairy Factory were also included. A total of 43 photographs were contained in tho album, which consisted of six pages, and credit is due to Mr. J. RWall, of the Carlton Studios, Stratford, and Messrs. McLeod and Slade, New Plymouth, who jointly produced the album. NOTES. As the Royal party reached the dais, Sir William Fraset (representing the Government) noticed the Hon. W. C. F. Carucross (Speaker of the Legislative Council) and presented him to the Prince. The parade of returned soldiers in the corridor of the Municipal Buildings, was in charge of Major Hine. The great success of the function was due to the manner in which the members of the Reception Committee and their willing helpers set themselves out to work, but the greatest credit is duo to the town clerk (Mr. P. Rkoglnud) who had most of the work of direction to do.

ARRIVAL AT WANOANUI.

SOLDIERS' NOVEL RECEPTION. DEAD HERO HONORED. By Teleirrapli.—Press Assn.—CoryrleM. Wanganui, Last Night"When the Prince reached Wanganui his welcome was such as would have stirred a heart of atone, and although by now he is accustomed to hearty demonstrations, His Royal pleased smile betokened the very keenest appreciation of this latest exhibition of goodwill.

Territorials and Boy Scouts formed a guard of honor, and the streets were lined by thousands of peoplo as the procession set out for Cooks' Garden*, where the main ceremonial was held. Hero were gathered probably aootbel ten thousand people on the terraces Hanking the sports ground, while on the level werft drawn up 500 returned soldiers, nurses, and sailors, and terrl-, torials, with their band, along with the Wanganui Collego Cadets. They made » fine display. The Mayor (Mr. Mackay) read-an Address of welcome, and the Prince, in reply, paid a tribute to the courage of the pioneers in overcoming all the difljculties, and leaving such splendid land ns a heritage for their children. The Prince presented a number of decorations for gallantry in the field, and after making the rounds of the parade, he entered his car, to which the soldiers, and the nurses too, attached a rope, and drew the Prince once around the ground, the Prince having to remain standing and acknowledging the people's applause during the whole circuit.

I AT HAWERA. A SPLENDID WELCOME. PROCESSION THROUGH THE TOWN. Uiiwera was crowded with people and the streets presented a gay appearance when the Royal train arrived. A procession was formed at the railway station, comprising veterans, returned soldiers, and school children, and led by the Citizens' Band, it proceeded through ihe beautifully decorated streets, lined by cheering crowds, to the Park. When the Prince arrived at the Park lie was received by the Mayor (Mr. E. Dixon), who was accompanied by Mr. J. 13. Murdoch (chairman of the Hawera County Council), and members of the Borough Council. The first intimation of the Prince's arrival at the gates was the lusty cheering of the children and the. waving of countless flags. As His Royal Highness marched down the lines, with his head bared, the cheering inrrea.=(ed in volumo, and the children strewed his path with flowers. As soon as the Prince appeared on the dais the feelings of the people found vent in a great cheer which was started by the returned soldiers and was taken up by the whole crowd- The Royal Salute was played by the Citizens' Band, after which there was further cheering.

To-morrow at 9.15 he leaves for Mar* ton, en route to Napier. The Prince to-night caused to be presented to him Mrs. Rowse, mother of the late Lieut-Colonel Cecil Humphriesone of New Zealand's most illustrious soldiers. Colonel Humphries, who was holiday-making in England when war broke out, enlisted immediately and went to France as a sergeant in the A.S.C. A week or two later he threw in his stripes and was transferred to the Manchester as a private. Thence his en reer was meteoric. He was given a commission and decorated with the D.C.M., being the first New Zoalander to gain a decoration on the field. Subsequently he earned the M.C. and bar and the DS.O., the latter being earned at Achiet-le-Petit. On the day of his death he was recommended for the V.C., and his General declared he was the bravest man he had ever known.

THE ADDRESS. The address' presented by his Worship the Mayor was as follows: "On behalf of the people of the town of Hawera and district, we, the Mayor of the Borough and the Chairman of the County, desire to express to Your Royal Highness an assurance of their loyalty to the Throne and person of His Majesty the King, and their delight that "Your Royal Highness lias included this town and district within the itinerary of your visit.

Sevbral' of the decorations presented this afternoon were given to next-of-kin, and each time there was an impressive hush, and many eyes were dimmed with tears at the remembrance of a brave life laid down.

"In this country, distant as it is from the heart of the Empire, we, iu common with the people of other parts of Now Zealand, gratefully realise that the Royal House of Windsor has borne a noble part in a great world-wide crisis, and we are deeply touched by many proofs which have reached us of the gracious and kindly personal interest which Your Royal Highness has taken in the welfare of the dear ones who went from our midst to fight for our beloved King and Empire.

RENOWN LEAVES AUCKLAND. Auckland, May 3. Xhe Renown left for Wellington this morning. WELLINGTON'S WELCOME. Wellington, May 3. Wellington seems likely to be the* chief sufferer by the alteration in the Prince's programme. Rain and wind are playing havoc with the decoration!) and the greenery will be faded before his arrival. The catering for the balls and the children will bo much emUarnwed and many of the piunsioris prepared will he spoiled.

"We beg Your Royal Highness to be assured of the warmth and reality of the loyal affection which underlies our welcome to you, simple;in form though it be.

"May wo bo granted permission to remind Your Royal Highness that this district through which you are travelling to-day is classic grountt. Not only was it the arena in which great native trihes fought for supremacy in times long antecedent to the touch of European civilisation, lint at many points in later years it was the scene of brave contention between the Pakeha and the Maori. Happily the days of v such conflict are 'gone for ever and ever by,' and the emulation between the races during the war of 1014-18 was in service to King and Empire, and Your Royal Highness will see this morning that the Maori who in time of stress fought in company with us is now rejoicing with us on the happy occasion of your gracious visit. "That Your Royal Highness may always have a pleasant recollection of New Zealand, that this visit may still further stimulate the Imperial ideals of unity, solidarity and maintenance of international peace and freedom, and that your life may ever be happy awl prosperous arc the heartfelt wishes of the people for whom we have the privilege to speak on this great occasion. Edwin Dixon (Mayor), J. B. Murdoch (County Chairman). I THE PRINCE'S REPLY. The Prince replied as follows: Mr. Mayor and Gentlemen,— "It is a great pleasure to me to pay this visit, short though it is, to Hawern, and I thank you most sincerely for TOUS warm w»l*nm« »nil

cordial address- lam particularly touched by the far too generous tkingß you have said about myself. There is no part of my very modest service in the great war which I value more than the close association into which it brought me with the splendid troops which these distant parts of the Empire despatched to the front? and I am happy to be able to congratulate you in person to-day on the gallant men whom you sent out to light and win in the Empire's struggle for justice, freedom, and peace. "Yon have reminded me,' r Mr.. Mayor, that this is historic ground* It is now a just matter of pride to both races that Die old strife between Pakeha and Maori has been transformed into mutual friendship and respect, and nothing has pleased me more in New Zealand than the evl« deuce which 1 have found everywhere, that Pakeha and Maori are now one people in devotion to their great Dominion, their mighty Empire and their King. "May t ask you to convey to all the inhabitants of this district my best wishes for their prosperity and happiness." THE PINAL SCENES. The Prince then inspected the returned soldiers, shaking hands with eaclf man as lie filed past, speaking to some wjij> wore conspicuous decorations. The veterans were next inspected, and the Prince drove slowly through the town, receiving a remarkable reception from the enormous crowds. All the way to the station the enthusiasm continued, and as the Royal train drew out the Prince waved his last farewell.

To-night tlie Prince attends a soldier*' entertainment at 9 o'clock, a concert at 0.30 and a supper in the Sargeant Art ' Gallery nt 10. •,