GREAT STATE BANQUET.

Hokitika Guardian, 21 January 1919, Page 1

GREAT STATE BANQUET.

A BRILLIANT GATHERING

LONDON, December 29,

The most regal setting ever arranged at Buckingham Palace greeted Presi dent and Mrs Wilson when they were escorted into the banquet hall for the State dinner which broke all precedent.

Every Royal formality which had attended special occasions at the Palace for the last 300 years was carried out, both before and during the banquet, but President Wilson, with Queen Mary, the President thus taking precedence of the King, led tho procession into the dining hall. He was preceded by the officials of the Palace, splendidly costumed and bearing wands, and walking backwards, making obeisance. Behind the President and the Queen came the King and Mrs Wilson, follow ed by members of the Royal Family. The scene was one of great splendour The dining saloon contained a great collection of solid gold plate and huge gold ornaments, valued at £3,000,000, brought from the vaults for the occasion. The buffets contained pieces of plate too large and cumbersome for use, including one piece of great size from the wreck of tli e Spanish Armada. The decorative mutif was white and gold with crimson carpet and upholstery to match. Hie crimson effect was heightened by the exclusive use of poinsettins for tiie floral decorations. The attendants were in full state dress heavy with gold lace, and a military orchestra played. The banquet was attended by the flower of English public life and the oversea guests included General Botha and General Smuts (South Africa), Sir Robert Borden (Premier of Canada), Mr Hughes, and the Maharajah of Bikanir.