NEW ZEALAND AND THE COMMONWEALTH.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 7 January 1901, Page 3

NEW ZEALAND AND THE COMMONWEALTH.

[PER press association— copyright.]

Sydney, January 8. A monster combined Trades Union and Friendly Societies demonstration was held at the Agricultural Grounds to-day. Thera were some 28 Unions, each headed bjr a trolly carrying a banner and a prac-

tical representation of the vocations and a score of friendly societies with a wealth of banners and allegorical representations on trollies took part in the display. Altogether it was a most effective procession. It went through the principal streets, which were thronged by many thousand people. Mr Seddon received a most enthusiastic reception at the Trades gathering on the Agricultural Grounds. The Maoris also received a warm welcome. Sir AV. Lyne proposed Mr Seddon’s and the Coiefa’ healths. The Maoris were presented to Lord Hopetoun, and made graceful poetic speeches, which were translated by A. L. I). Fraser, M.H.R. for Napier. Ratana and Tamabau were the speakers, they c xpressed their gratification at the Governor’s restoration to health. One said : You have been at death’s door. Now we see you well and our hearts are glad. A\ r e have longed, if the chance might ’ come, to see our great Queen ; but in shaking hands with you we feel nearer our great dpsire ! ” Mr Seddon suitably responded to his health.

A naval and military banquet was held at the Town Hall to-night, there being a brilliant assemblage. Mr Seddon apologised for the absence of Mr Carroll. Sir Robert Stout, was also present, proposed the toast of the Commonwealth, and thanked New South Wales for its magnificent hospitality. He spoke in high terms of the good order which prevailed during the demonstrations. Referring to New Zealand’s attitude towards Federation, he said it seemed to him that the Australian statesmen were not unlike the Laird o’ Cockpen in wooing New Zealand to join, and if they followed out the result of the Scottish sing they would remember that that the union afterwards came about and was blessed. If the Commonwealth was to be a success it must have high ideals. New Zealand’s sympathy was with them in the task undertaken. Mr Barton in replying thanked Sir B. Stout for the lofty tone of his speech. He valued it as coming from one whose experience as a politican was of a high position. AVithout divulging a secret, he might say that the Governor-General had prepared a general order. Eeferring to the good order displayed by the populace, he thanked the Imperial authorities for the grand displ .y by their troops.