THE NEW ZEALAND.

Taranaki Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 144084, 1 May 1913, Page 2

THE NEW ZEALAND.

CAPTAIN HALSEY’S SPEECH. Per Press Association. AUCKLAND, April 29. In replying to the speech of welcome at the reception, by the port authorities, Captain Halsey said: “I hardly know what to say to you, for it has never been my privilege to witness such a reception as you have given usi this afternoon. You and your magnificent harbour have given us a wonderful reception. We have been fortunate, indeed, in arriving at your port bn Such a glorious day. When we were' in Bangitoto Channel we were met by your outposts, so to speak. Little did I think that we were going to meet hundreds of boats in your harbour. I thought, out there in the channel,, that I would have liked to stop for them, but as we _ went on, more and more came into view. 1 congratulate you on the still more splendid reception which awaited us on rounding the Heads into your harbour. The chairman has alluded to past naval visits to this port, and I can only say that, if the welcome accorded to those visitors was as hearty as this one, it is something which I thought was impossible. I can quite realise why you give us this welcome,” continued Captain Halsey. “You are quite right, but the welcome should not be to ua, but to your fine ship which you have given to the Mother, land. We are the fortunate ones who have brought her out to you,' and wo are deeply grateful for 1 your reception. Ladies and gentlemen, again let. me thank you from the bottom of my heart on behalf of my officers and the ship’s company for the hearty reception which the ship has received On entering youf port.”