LAYING THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE WANGANUI BRIDGE.

Hawke's Bay Times, Volume 14, Issue 736, 18 November 1869, Page 2

LAYING THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THE WANGANUI BRIDGE.

(From tlio Correspondent of tlio Wellington Im pendent.) Nov. 10. The s.s. Waiiganui, with his Hoik the Superintendent and daughter the Hon. the Premier and Mrs Fo; the Provincial Secretary, and a Jail party of excursionists, arrived he on Tuesday, at 11 a.m. The weather was delightfully fin and an immense gathering of tj people turned out to welcome then The .Reception and Bridge Col mittees, and a deputation from 1 Masons were on the wharf, ready! receive the visitors. After a coral greeting, Walter Buller, Esq., R.I

road the address winch had been prepared on behalf of the inhabitants, of Wangiinui. | A procession was then formed of the various public bodies, headed by the Volunteer band, which accompanied the Premier and the Superintendent to the hotel, where luncheon was provided.

The stone was laid by Dr Featherston, with Masonic honors, in the afternoon. The handsome silver trowel, purchased for IT K.H. the Puke of Edinburgh, when it was thought likely he would perform the ceremony, was used on the occasion. The Doctor made a most appropriate and tolling speech,.which was eheci-ed to the echo.

The whole proceedings were a great success; the weather was do lightfully fine ; the gathering "im mouse ;" and from beginning to end tho day was one perfect ovation. The ball in the evening was attended by 120 of the elite of tho town and district. Unless specially detained by the numerous pressing engagements which are being forced on his Honor, lie will start for Turn kina this afternoon, on his wa to YWI ngton. Mr Fox will return by steamer.