THE AMERICAN FLEET. INVITATION TO VISIT AUSTRALIA.

Otago Witness, Issue 2815, 26 February 1908, Page 30

THE AMERICAN FLEET. INVITATION TO VISIT AUSTRALIA.

A WORLD-WIDE TOUR. NEW YORK, February 19. The New York newspapers accuse the Japanese Government, steamer Kasato Ma.ru of shadowing the American battleship fleet while the latter was in Chilian! ■waters. The Kasato Maru is equipped with wireless telegraphy appliances. February 22. The authorities at Washington are highly gratified at Mr Deakin's invitation to Admiral Evans's fleet to visit Australia. Mr Metcalfe (Secretary of the Navy) says that the Naval Department is grateful for the cordiality shown, and that the invitation will receive serious consideration. SAN FRANCISCO, February 20. Admiral Evans, with his fleet, has arrived at Callao (Peru). LONDON, February 22. The New York correspondent of The Times says that Mr Roofs reply to the invitation is interesting, as it is the first responsible \itterance confirming the rumours that the fleet would undertake a world's tour. MELBOURNE, February 24. It transpires that Mt Deakin in December last wrote to Mr Whitelaw Reid, whom he ■ had met several times, asking his opinion about a visit from Admiral Evans's fleet. Tho reply being favourable, Mr Deakin then, through the GovernorCenera! (Lord Northcote), forwarded an invitation to Washington.