SIR JOSEPH WARD.

Timaru Herald, Volume XC, Issue 13290, 20 May 1907, Page 5

SIR JOSEPH WARD.

HOMEWARD BOUND

A VALEDICTORY ADDRESS.

Press Assoeiation-By Telegraph-Copyright Received May 19th at 4.45 p.el _ LONDON, May 18.

Sir Joseph Ward was entertained at dinner by 250 students of Dublin University. The Provost of Trinity College presided, proposed the health of the visitor. Sir Josei)h Ward, in response, mentioned that a number of graduates of Dublin University, including Lord Plunket, held high positions in New Zealand. The students made a great demonstration as Sir Joseph left the hall. Sih Joseph Ward issued the following farewell address:—" Before leaving England, I wish to express thanks for the very great kindness of all classes of the community. I have everywhere been treated with the greatest possible cordiality. Attentions have been shown me in such profusion that it is impossible to acknowledge them individually. I fully recognise that in honouring me, the people of Britain - have shown their goodwill for New Zealand, and their desire to draw closer the ties binding them to their oversea kinsmen. New Zealand well understands this, and heartily reciprocates the sentiment. Speaking a s one of : the representatives of the oversea dominion?, I am satisfied that though we have not accomplished all we aimed at, our labours have not been in vain, for the ncble ideal of imperial unity is distinctly nearer and clearer than before we came."

Sir Joseph Ward inscribed his name in the visitors' book at Buckingham Palace. After having taken farewell of the Earl of Elgin (Colonial Secretary) and the other visiting Premiers and Colonial Office officials, Sir Joseph Ward, Dr. Eitchett, and Mr Belcher Parted from Charing Cross for Brindisi. The party received a hearty send-off, bouquets of roses and lilies being presented to Lady and Miss Ward.' The large gathering present to bid fur?\reH-in-cluded Mr W. P. Reeves and Mrs Reeves... the Earl of Haddington, Sir Westby Pereival, and Mr Bertram Cox of the Colonial Office.

LAST DAYS IN BRITAIN. v WELLINGTON, May 18. The Government ..supply the Press Association with tlio following cable: LONDON, May 17. In conferring ths freedom of the city on Sir Joseph Ward at Bristol on Wednesday morning, the Lord Mayor referred to New Zealand as probably the most beautiful country in the world. Sir Joseph Ward, in reply, stated that the colony was anxious to. extend its .trade, and would be glad to see. a general increase of its trade with the British Mes. He was glad to know that Bristol was anxious for reciprocity. Speaking in London at the New Zealand dinner the same evening, Sir Joseph Ward expressed the deepest regret at Mr HallJones's illness. He said that Mr HallJones had been an active, energetic and able Minister, and he was sure that &V. New Zealanders present would join in sending an expression of ■sympathy with his family, and of hope for his speedy recovery.' 'Sir Joseph referred to the general prosperity and financial* position of the colony, dealing with botli fully. He also referred to the splendid feeling that had been displayed everywhere towards New Zealand and its people. It was' a gratifying feature of hi 3 visit to find New Zealanders resident in England, doing well, but he hoped the best colonials would stick to the countrv. He urged the importance of New Zealanders in England using their influence with people-to obtain a fast passenger and mail service connecting the old land and the colony across Canada. • Sir Joseph proceeded to Dublin the <-ame night, and next day the degree of Doctor of Laws of Trinity College, Dublin, was conferred on him. The Lord Lieutenant of Ireland delivered a complimentary speech. Afterwards Sir Joseph went through the New Zealand court at the Dublin Exhibition, which presents an excelent exhibit of the colony's products. After proceeding to the vice-regal housa in Phoenix Park, he was •entertained by the Provost and 200 students of Dublin University. A party of New Zealanders accompanied him, and all had an enthusiastic reception in Dublin. Sir Joseph Ward left for New Zealand to-night. A large party at Charing Cross gave him an enthusiastic send-off. ° Before leaving London, Sir Joseph gave .evidence before the Royal Commission on Irish railways, He explained the general position of the New Zealand railways, and expressed a strong opinion in favour of State ownership.