GOVERNOR-GENERAL.

Waikato Times, Volume 113, Issue 18926, 21 April 1933, Page 6

GOVERNOR-GENERAL.

VISIT TO THE ISLANDS. WARM WELCOME AT APIA. A COLOURFUL SPECTACLE. (Special to Press Association.) (By Radio from H.M.S. Diomede.) APIA, April 19. An inspiring reception awaited Their Excellencies at Apia, where the H.M.S. Diomede arrived at 9.30 today.

The warship was escorted by a flotilla of decorated native craft, each rowed by 30 men. These circled the Diomede after she anchored, and later escorted Lord Bledisloe’s launch to the landing wharf, making a picturesque spectacle. Their Excellencies were received by the Administrator and other officials. The shore was lined by thousands of spectators. Returned soldiers had the honour of first receiving Their Excellencies, who then proceeded through double lines of school children.

The reception was most cordial, only the showery weather interfering with its complete spectacular success. Their Excellencies proceeded to Mulinuu for the King’s kava ceremony. Living In Harmony. Lord Bledisloe said that for any country to be happy and prosperous it was necessary for the people to be contented and live in harmony. The history'of Samoa in the past had been one of contending factions. He exhorted them to do all in their power to restore and maintain complete harmony and mutual trustfulness. Much had been done by the Administration to improve health and education. His Excellency concluded with a few words of counsel to the principal chiefs and officials, urging them always to use their positions and influence for the good of the country. They should be loyal to the Government, help and support-the Administrator and in all things seek the welfare of the country and the people. No jealousy, envy, or unworthy personal ambition should prevent them from taking a useful and honourable part in the work- of the Government for the prosperity and happiness of Samoa. FESTIVITIES AT APIA. GREAT DISPLAY BY NATIVES. United Press Assn. —Elec. Tel. Copyright. (Received April 21, 2.51 p.m.) APIA, April 21. Residents of Apia are delighted at the® success of yesterday’s functions connected with the visit of Their Excellencies. A gathering In the afternoon was attended by fully 3000 natives. A lengthy entertainment in honour of the visitors was presented in its entirety despite a drenching downpour of rain. Representatives of the native districts' 1 , paid their respects and presented food and cocoanuts. The presentations were carried through-with great ceremony, amid fantastic scenes, which were unique in the experience of Their Excellencies. The natives were in high spirits, and the antics of the Jesters in different parties were excruciatingly funny, and were received with tremendous applause and laughter. A speech of welcome to Their Excellencies was made by Tofllau, a highly-respected chief and a popular orator. Suooessful Reception. His Excellency held a reception for representatives of local bodies, legislative councillors, clergy, Chamber of Commerce, social and sports organisations. There was a large attendance of European residents. A loyal address was presented by Hon. J. Carruthers, M.L.C. A cordial welcome was also extended to Lady Bledisloe. His Excellency, in replying, said the visit had been a source of unqualified satisfaction and pleasure*to them. Mau Adherents Holding Aloof. The Mau adherents are generally holding aloof from the celebrations, but the various gatherings are proving an irresistible attraction to a considerable number of this section of the native community. It is anticipated that the feeling will grow, and before Their Excellencies’ visit ends a substantial advance will have been made towards reconciliation. . . The impression made by Lord Bledisloe is favourable, and his tactful handling of a delicate situation is fully appreciated.