THE GOVERNOR'S VISIT.

Akaroa Mail and Banks Peninsula Advertiser, Volume V, Issue 486, 15 March 1881, Page 2

THE GOVERNOR'S VISIT.

His Excellaney the Governor paid his first official visit to Canterbury, arriving at Lyttelton by the Hinemoa on Fridaymorning last. He was accompanied by the Premier and a numerous suit. The weather was splendid, and the town and shipping were decorated with flags. The Christchurch Artillery fired a vies regal salute, and the Lyttelton Naval Brigade formed a guard of honor. Immediately on landing, addresses were presented by tho Mayor and Council of Lyttelton, and from the Odd Fellows and Foresters, to all of which tho Governor made suitable replies. After inspecting the works in progress at the new graving docks, and tbe Lyttelton Orphanage, and expressing a wish to be present at the formal opening of the dock, His Excellency proceeded by special train to Christchurch at noon, where he was met by a large number of citizens and others. A detatchment of the City Guards formed the guard of honor. Addresses, breathing sentiments of loyalty to tbe Crown and respect to His Excellency persona!!}', wore presented from the Mayor and City Council of Christchurch, the Selwyn County Counoil, and from the President of the Canterbury Sunday School Union, to all of which gracious replies were made. A procession was then formed and marched to Cathedral Square, where His Excellency was enthusiastically received by a large assemblage of people and over 1,200 of the children al tending tho various public schools. Hearty cheers were given for the Governor, who afterwards proceeded to G'kor's Hotel, where he in to reside during his stay in the city.

During tbe afternoon His Excellency, accompanied by the Mayor, drove to tbe Normal School, Sunnyside Asylum, and the establishments ot Messrs Lightband, Allan and Co. and W. Montgomery and Co. In the evening His Excellency attended the theatre. At noon on Saturday an undress levee was held in the old Provincial Council Chamber.

A large number of tbe leading citizens were presented to His Excellency, and also the Most Rev. the Primate, His Honor tho Judge, His Worship tho Mayor, and tbe members for tbe city.

In the morning before the levee, His Excellency visited tbe Canterbury College buildidgs in his capacity of visitor of the College. He was accompanied by tbe Premier, and was received by the Chairman (Mr Montgomerj'). The vice-regal party afterwards visited Christ's College, and was received by the Dean and subWarden.

In the evening a public banquet was given to His Excellency in tbe Oddfellows' Hall, at which nearly 200 persons were present. His Worship the Mayor occupied the chair, and on his right he was'- supported by the Governor, and his left bj- - the Premier.

The toast of His Excellency's health was warmly received, who in reply made an excellent speech, and concluded by proposing " The Prosperity of the Colony and the Welfare of the People."'

The Premier replied to the toast of " His Excelieney's Advisers."

The whole affair was a great success. His Excellency left for Ashburton early yesterday morning by special train.