A GARDEN RECEPTION

Dominion, Volume 32, Issue 143, 13 March 1939, Page 4

A GARDEN RECEPTION

Combined Welcome For New High Commissioner AUCKLAND PATRIOTIC SOCIETIES In honour of Sir Harry Batterbee, first High Commissioner for the United Kingdom in New Zealand, and Lady Batterbee, who arrived in .Auckland on Friday, a reception was held iu the afternoon at the Ellerslie racecourse gardens, states the “New Zealand Herald.” The function, which was largely attended, was organized by the presidents and councils of the patriotic societies of Auckland—the Royal Empire Society, the Victoria League, the Overseas League, the Navy League, and the Royal Society of St. George. The racecourse grounds made a picturesque setting for the reception. The gardens were ablaze with vivid cannas and flowering shrubs, and in the smaller flower beds bordering the lawns were delicate-hued phlox, bon- . fire salvias and begonias. Tea was j served in the kiosk, the official table in the centre of the room having been charmingly arranged with two silver epergnes of vieux rose dahlias centred by soft green foliage and palms. On the smaller tables were vases of pas-tel-toned hydrangeas, mauve aud pink dahlias, and maidenhair fern.

The guests of honour were received by the chairman of the central committee, Mr. H. T. Gibson, Mrs. Gibson, and the presidents or representatives of the patriotic societies. Lady Batterbee was wearing a navy blue tufted wool georgette ensemble and a picture hat of navy straw relieved with white., A bouquet of carnations was presented to Lady Batterbee by Airs. J. B. Alacfarlaue on behalf of the central committee.

Following tea, the guests assembled in the gardens, where they were introduced to Sir Harry and Lady Batterbee.