THE DUTCH FLEET.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXII, Issue 898, 29 September 1910, Page 3

THE DUTCH FLEET.

ITS WORLD’S CRUISE. Sydney, September 27. The Dutch fleet has sailed for Melbourne. Speaking at a reception to the Dutch fleet at Sydney last week, Vice-Admiral Sir Richard Poore, said he had an especial pleasure in supporting the toast of welcome when he realised as a naval officer that in Australia certain facts were accepted without the slightest hesitation, and in a cheery way, and the stories of our three English and Dutch wars were looked upon by both sides as being rather an honour than anything else; that in those days the British Navy met the hardiest fighters, he trusted, that it ever would meet. In those days they fought in a sensible way, and in a way, at all events, that, whatever happened, left in the minds of each other the impression that they were on both sides gallant adversaries. In the days of Tromp and de Ruyter the fighting was intense. They were the days before there were any eight-hour movement. (Laughter). The British had a high compliment paid to them by a very distinguished Dutchman who had a complaint against them and said, “You may kill the English seamen, but you cannot conquer them.’’ The' historian who chronicled this wrote wisely when he said that what was said of one side might equally well be said of the other. (Cheers). Commander Van Voss replied in English. “I can only speak in straightforward language. I hope you will forgive me if the words are not right. Only remember that they come from the full depth of the heart. When I heard we were to come to Sydney I knew from the ships that had been here before of your great hospitality. I thank you for your most hearty welcome. I have not the words big enough to express it. (Applause). I only can tell you we shall never forget it. A naval man goes roaming everywhere round the world, but we shall always remember the days we have spent with you. Australia is the pearl of the British Empire, and I wish you success from my heart, God bless you !’’ (Great applause).