FRANCO-BRITISH EXHIBITION.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2192, 16 May 1908, Page 3

FRANCO-BRITISH EXHIBITION.

AN ENTHUSIASTIC OPENING. THE ENTENTE CORDIALE. United Press Association—Copyright. (Received Alay 15, 10.40 p.m.) LONDON, Alay 15. The general incompleteness of tlio exhibition and the pouring lain marred tlie brilliancy of the formal opening. Nothing was quite ready, and there was a- great deal that was not ready at all, especially the exhibits. Tlio Prince and Princess of Wales drove to tlio exhibition in open carriages, and mot with an enthusiastic reception from Kensington to Shepherd’s Bush. The city was extensively decorated, the Union Jack and tho Tricolor being conspicuous. The Duke and Duchess of Argyll, Lord Derby, Earl and Lady Dudley, AI. Cnippi (French Alinister of Commerce). AI. Ruan (French Alinister for Agriculture), AI. Cambon Lord Strathcona, Air. W. Pemher Reeves, Lord and Lady Jersey, Air. Carruthers, Air. Price, and others were received by tho Prince and Princess of Wales at the entrance, and walked in procession to the Court of Honor, where, after tho National Anthem and the AJarseillais© had been played, the Prince of Wales declared tho' exhibition open in tho presence of 30,000 spectators. A concert was then given in tho Palace of Alusic by the Royal Choral Orchestra. Aladamo Albam sang the National Anthem, and tho choir and Society and the London Symphony orchestra gave tho Duke of Argyll’s welcome song set to music by Sir Charles Stanford.

The Duke of Argyll delivered an address, thanking tho Prince of Wales for presiding, and thus expressing Royal approval at the co-operation in peaceful industries of Britain and France. Ho referred to the generous effort of our kindred people from over the seas.

The Prince of Wales, amid loud applause, said he and the Princess wore especially glad to assist in the inauguration of the exhibition which was the outcome of tlie generous cb-opera-tion of tho great French nation, with which we were connected on close and friendly relations. Ho expressed gratitude at tlio French Government’s hearty and liberal support, and warmly welcomed their representatives. Ho rejoiced that tlio movement had been keenly and generously supported by the oversea dominions, and 110 congratulated all responsible for so marvellous and beautiful a creation. Ho hoped, later, to inspect tlie exhibits, and lie trusted that tlio exhibition would encourage healthy rivalry, stimulate the interchange of knowledge and ideas, strengthen the brotherhood of nations, and promote peace and civilisation. A drenching rain spoiled tlio additional ceremonies in the Stadium, where 2000 male and lady athletes and polytechnic students had inaugurated a sports progrtTrime. The fireworks were abandoned. Olio hundred and thirty thousand people attended during tho day. The concensus of opinion is that the exhibition buildings will look dazzling in fine weather, but at present are anfinished. The gardens promise to be a remarkable feature. The Canadian and Indian Buildings arc ready, and will probably bo open in a week. Tho Australian Palace is rather less advanced.