GOVERNOR'S TOUR

Rotorua Morning Post, Volume 2, Issue 513, 22 April 1933, Page 5

GOVERNOR'S TOUR

(Special to Press Assn.)

MAU HOLDING ALOOF FROM NATIVE LOYALIST "QA'THERINGS \ HIS EXCELLENCY'S .TACT

Apia, April 21., Residents of Apia are delighted at the success of yesterday's functions connected with the visit of Their -Ex.cellencies. ' ' A gathering in the afternoon ■ was attended by fully 3000 natives. A lengthy entertainment in' honour of the visitors was presented in its entirety despite a dreiiching downpour of rain. Representatives of the native' districts paid their respects and presented food and cocoanuts.' - ' ' ' The presentations "were carried through with great ceremony, amid fantastic scenes, which were unique in the experience of Their Excellen•'cies. The natives were in high spirits, and the" antics of the Jestersln different parties were excruciatingly funny, and were received with tremendous applause and laughter. A speech of welcome to Their Excellencies was made by Tofllau, a ■highly-respected chief and a popular orator. Successful Reception His Excellency held a re'Ception for i epr.esentatives of local bodies, l^gislative councillors, tfiergy, Chamber 'of 'Commerce, social and sports organisations. There was a large atte'ndance of European residents. A loyal address was pffesented by ' lion. J. Carruthers, M.L.C; A cordial welcome was also extendc d to- Lady Bledisloe. His Excellency, in replying, said the visit had been a source of unqualified satisfaction and pleasure to them. Mau Adherents Holding Aloof The Mau adherents are generally holding aloof from the celebfations, but the various gatherings are pf oving an irresistible attraction to a considerable number of this section'of the native community. It is anticipated that the feeling will grow, and before Their Excellenvcies' visit ends a substantial advance will have been made towards recon'ciliation. The impression made by Lord Bledisloe is favourable, and his tactful handling of a delicate situation is fully appreciated.