OUR DREADNOUGHT.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VII, Issue 539, 5 February 1913, Page 5

OUR DREADNOUGHT.

CEREMONY AT PORTSMOUTH

READY FOR FURTHER HELP.

Telegranh.— Tress Association— CopyriK.ii* London, Monday.

Three hundred New Zeaianders inspected H.M.S. New Zealand at Portsmouth. Sir Geo. H. Reid, Australia's High Commissioner, was absent through influenza. Mr Cathcart Wason, M.P., and Admiral Fawkes were present when Miss Mackenzie unveiled the New Zealand coat of arms, which is supported by tablets inscribed, "Tasman 1642, Cook 1769."

Mr Thomas Mackenzie, High Commissioner for New Zealand, said that he waß proud that New Zealand had led the way. He referred to Australian and Canadian assistance to the Empire, and hoped that Souih Africa would soon follow. New Zealand was anxious that the Empire's navy should be equal to any challenge, and wanted Britain to feel that she was with her to the extent of her ability.

Capt. Halsey, in accepting the gift, congratulated New Zealand on being the first to give the Empire a ship. He trusted that if ever called upon to perform her duty for which she was buile the crew would maintain the hoour placed in their hands. The Hon. Jas. Allen said New Zealand would cheerfully give further help. She meant to see the Pacific safe, and he hoped that other countries there would combine to make it so. New Zealand would not be satisfied until she was able to provide the men as well as the money and ships. Sir Richard Solomon, High Commis sioner for South Africa, congratulated New Zealand on her practical loyalty. The New Zealand's visit to Table Bay would help South Africans in their growing feeling of co-operation. A silver cup for boat crew tcompetitions and a portrait of Mr Seddon as presented to the ship , on Mrs Seddon's behalf.