NELSON.

New Zealand Tablet, Volume XXXV, Issue 6, 7 February 1907, Page 12

NELSON.

Mr. Donovan delivered au address in the Theatre Royal, Nelson, on Saturday evening, January 2*>. Tne Mayor (Mr. Piper) presided. Beiore the proceedings began the Citizen's Band played selections outside the iheatre. On the platform were Mr. R. Reeves, M.L.C., Rev. Father Clancy, Councillors; Atmore, .Grace, Houn. sell, Turner, Messrs. Hayes" , secretary), "F.Hamilton, Lock, and Seymour. The Chairman having introduced Mr. Donovan to the audience, said that at this distance the. people were not very familiar with British politics, and doiiotle&s their visitor would enlighten them greatly. He bespoke for the visitor a -hearty welcome and an attentive hearing, and referred to Professor Newman's work on the division of the United Kingdom into seven- parts, with local government and Imperial Control. At the conclusion of Mr. Donovan's address, which was similar to that delivered in other centres the hon. R. H. J. Reeves, M.L.C., moved a vote of thanks to Mr. Donovan, with eulogistic comments on the excellence of the address, trusting that the time was not lar off when Orange and Green would blend together, and Ireland would have Home Rule. Mr. John Graham, M.H.R.-j seconded the motion, and described the address as an intellectual treat. Saturday night was not a good night in Nelson for a large meeting, but if the people had only known the treat in store for them they wouid have filled the hall. Mr. Graham declared that .Ireland should have self-government like parts . of the British Empire, and said the resolution should go- further and express sympathy with Mr. Donovan's cau&e. The loyalty of Ireland could not be doubted, and she should be givenan equal right with other British provinces to govern herself. He hoped the Irish cause would ■ prosper, and that soon Ireland woul<f have Home Rule. The motion was carried unanimously. The proceedings terminated with a vote of thanks to the Chairman, moved by Mr. Donovan, and carried with acclamation. A sum of over £51 was Nelson's contribution to the Home Rule fund.