THE GOVERNOR.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 8831, 18 January 1907, Page 3

THE GOVERNOR.

HIS VISIT TO THE WEST COAST. [Pkr Pbjcss Association.] n HOKITIKA, January 18. Excellent weather prevailed for the reception of his Excellency the Governor to-day. The special train arrived at 11 a.m., and Lord Plunket was received by a large assemblage. Volunteers formed a guard of honour. A loyal address was presented on behalf of Westland, and in the course of the address the following reference was made to the late Premier : — " In welcoming your Excellency to-day, there is a sadness in the hearts of the people that you are not under the personal escort of our respected and revered member, the lato Right Hon R. JSeddon, P.C. A ye*r ago when, amongst us, the late Mr Seddon expressed the hope that he would have the pleasure of accompanying your Excellency through Westland at this time. Providence has, alas, willed otherwise, and withdrawn the notable statesman from our midst and from the service of his country. Here, in the land he loved so well, his death is still deeply deplored, and, in common with the colony generally, the removal of a leader so magnetically vigorous is very sincerely regretted." His Excellency, in his official reply, tsaid : — " I join with you in your oxpressions of sorrow regarding the late Mr Seddon, with whom I had looked forward to making my official visit to West-land, and postponed doing ©o more than once with that object. As representative of the King I lament the death of a great Imperialist; as Governor I appreciate the loss of so distinguished a Prime- Minister] and as &• private individual I remember his constant courtesy and consideration towards myself." This afternoon the Governor's party is being taken to Lake Kanieri, and -will be entertained at a conversazione this evening. It will visit the mining districts to-morrow morning, proceeding to Kumara^in the afternoon.