THE SAMOA JAUNT

Hokitika Guardian, 18 March 1920, Page 1

THE SAMOA JAUNT

(By Electric Telegraph—Copy rigid.’

WELLINGTON, This Day

A wireless from the Mokoia states I'ie Parliamentary party arrived at Vavau oil Saturday and were officially welcomed by the Governor who explained the preparations for entertainment oi the visitors were cancelled owing to their non-arrival on the expected date. Tho visitors arc enthusiastic over the magnificent harbour and scenery, vhicb is the most beautiful yet witnessed. The party entered (Mariners cove m boats and were cinematograplied. On Sunday at Nukalofa they attended a special musical service at the I ree Church, with wonderful singing by competing choirs.

On Monday the Queen and Consort received the party at the palace. On her birthday (Saturday), S ; r James Allen, on behalf of the pasty asked acceptance of a travelling clock as a birthday gift. The Queen charmingly replied. She is fully six feet rnd looked the picture of a Queen in 1 or European dress of white silk. Rain prevented picnicking, so :i fea-t and native dances at Parliament TTi use was substituted. Both native and European residents were most hospitable. SUVA, March 17. Sir J. Allen and members this m< ruing called on Governor Rodwell. Later a civic reception was given by Major Scott, who thanked New Zealand for their prompt assitance in the epidemic and the recent despatch of the 9 utaiiekai. Sir James Allen replying, said New Zealand was glad to have been able to do a neighbourly service. A luncheon was given by the Un-on Steamship Coy at the Company’s Pala tial Hotel.

The strike is apparently over. Hindoos are working the Tutanekai, which is likely* soon to leave for New Zealand. Tho soldiers are anxious, to embark. They bare been employed in useful policing detachments with Capt. Wilke, as far as sixty miles up the river, where the natives and Hindoos were amazed at tho demonstration of Lewis gunning. The Now Zealanders "ore never in actual conflict with the strikers. The Trade Commission is busily on quiring into various stoppages and i. now meeting at Suva, llie Commission and many of the party nro staying ever at Suva, until tlie Molcoia’s return from Lnutokn. All are well.