SIR JOSEPH WARD.

West Coast Times, 24 June 1909, Page 3

SIR JOSEPH WARD.

GOVERNMENT- LUNCHEON AT MELBOURNE. EULOGISTIC SPEECHES. ' > [per press association.— copyright j MELBOURNE, June 23.— The New Zealand Premier, Sir J. G. Ward, arrived in Melbourne to-day, and was entertained by the Victorian Government at luncheon in the Parliamentary Buildings. In addition to all the members of ,the State Ministry, there were present the Federal Premier, Mr Dea'kin, and Mr Cook, of the Ministry. Sir John Forrept proposed the health of the guest. He said that Sir Joseph Ward was recognised as a very strong man throughout Australia and in" England. He had accomplished great work during his strenuous public career. Australia was proud of his latest «et in offering the New Zealand DreadiifHitdif* Sir s J. Forest said he regarded tiie coming Conference as the greatest in history since the days of Napoleon. He wished Sit- Joseph Ward a successful mission. He was suro their guest would take a leading and distinguished part. Sir Joseph Watf/1, in replying, said he was proud to rep^eiifc loyal New Zealand. He -egarded the Defence Conference as the most momentous one in the Empire's Hstory. H« wonW gladly co-operate ivith Australia's representative in the promotion of th-* Empire's interests. ■ A large party, including the Ministers, gave Sir Joseph Ward an enthusiastic send-off,