INDIA’S LOYALTY.

Hokitika Guardian, 27 November 1917, Page 4

INDIA’S LOYALTY.

GATHERING OP PRINCES

Detail, Nov 1)

A splendid banquet was given last evening, in a huge tent on the Secretariat lawns by some fifty ruling princes of India to the Maharajah of Bikaner, Sir James Mestou (LieutGovernor of the United Provinces of Agra and Ondh), and Sir S. P. Sinlia (member of the Viceroy’s Council', recent delegates to the Imperial Conference. The Viceroy (Lord Chelmsford) presided. Lady Chelmsford, .all the high officials of the Government, and many ladies, were present, the company numbering 040. The ‘magnificence of the banquet, the general decoration, and perfect arrangements were due to the Jam of Nawanagar. The Jam, speaking first, said that the banquet set the seal of their unanimous approbation and approval on the magnificent services rendered by the distinguished guests under circnmstances of singular novelty, delicacy, and seriousness. The Maharajah of Gwalior proposed the health of the Viceroy. He alluded to the mutual benefit to the princes and the Government from: intimate relation, and said “ the more we are made use of, the better for the interest of the Empire. Our aim is its stability. We deem it a privilege to help the Empire to the utmost in winning the war.” Lord Chelmsford, responding, said —“ This is a great Imperial gathering. Such conferences to'me are a great, source of satisfaction, for the Viceroy should maintain the closest personal relations with ruling chiefs. The presence of so many Princes is inspiring and stimulating, and the loyalty tendered the Emperor at the Durbar is now proved to have been no empty formula.” Speaking face to face, he told the chiefs that they had made a glorious page in the Empire’s history, and had been indeed pillars of the State. He praised the services of the three delegates amidst much applause. The Maharajah of Patiala and the Maharajah of Kapurtliala proposed the toast of the guests of the evening.

The Maharajah of Bikanir, replying, said he recognised the honour conferred on them as a recognition that India had become an integral part of the British Empire. He paid a high tribute to Lord Chelmsford, who to-day commanded the gratitude and respect of every responsible person in India. Sir James Meston said that England had given India the most priceless gift in her power, namely, the right to enter the struggle towards union. Sir S. P. Sinka said the country was proud of the part the Princes had played in the war, and urged all classes to sink differences in the deV fence of the Empire. All the dele-' gates paid ihe highest compliments to Mr Chamberlain’s services to India. the speeches lasted till midnight. Each delegate received a valuable gold cup as a momento of his services-.