MINISTERS AT REEF TON.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume V, Issue 1450, 7 February 1885, Page 2

MINISTERS AT REEF TON.

Reefton, Yesterday. The Hon the Premier and the Minister of Mines were met twelve miles from Reefton last evening by a large Reception Committee from Reefton and escorted to Cronadun, when the Hon Mr Larnach proceeded to Reefton, and the Premier remained at Cronadun. The preparations at Reefton were on an elaborate scale The State School and other buildings were illuminated, a band of music and torchlight procession met the Minister of Mines, the line of march was ablaze with fireworks Reaching the hotel, three cheers were given for the Minister of Mines by the large crowd assembled, and the Hon Mr Larnach briefly acknowledged the compliment. He apologised for the absence of the Premier, and hoped that hia visit to the district would enable him to discharge tfya duties of his office with advantage to the mining interests and the colony generally. A large crowd blocked the street for seme time afterwards, and the band played in front of the hotel for half an hour, when the demonstration ended. This morning the Premier and the Minister of Mines, accompanied by the County Chairman and other visitors, proceeded to Boatman’s, and inspected the Welcome battery and the principal mines. After lunch the Premier addressed those assembled, and expressed himself highly pleased with the reception accorded them. He said that the importance of the mining'lndustry to the colony was not fully understod or appreciated. After what had been brought under his notice justice would be done. The Hon Mr Larnach and Mr Seddon, M.H.R.’s, also addressed those present. Three cheers were given for the Premier, /;he Minister of Mines, and Messrs Seddon and Brennan, and the party then returned to Reefton. The Ministers will leave here for Greymonth on Sunday morning.