ROYAL VISIT

Southland Times, Issue 18827, 21 May 1920, Page 5

ROYAL VISIT

PRINCE IN INVERCARGILL

Warm Welcome in Cold Weather

A CONQUERING HERO

The most southern city in the Empire and the world has had its first visit from Royalty—a visit which was perhaps the more poignant because of its brevity and the more memorable because of the many weeks of anticipation that preceded the great realisation and because of the irony of the Fates in blessing the province with a spell of fine weather lasting a month and then shattering it with a vengeance on the occasion that sunshine was most needed. By newspaper and public utterance the people throughout the length and breadth of the province had been made aware of the winning characteristics of this boy Prince, and perhaps it w'ould not be unfair to say that there were as many in the great crowd of yesterday who were present with a “personal” interest in His Royal Highness as there were of those whose sole object was to do honour to the future King. But with most the object was a two-fold one. Now he has come and gone, leaving behind him a feeling of loss and even a sounder sense of loyalty in the hearts of Southlandors than throbbed there before. Thus is the great object of the tour being accomplished wherever the Prince of Wales sheds the sunshine of his smile. Even early In the morning It was apparent that Invercargill was to be visited by a large crowd. Each train from the surrounding districts was well filled, and its arrival was the forerunner to a substantial increase to the ever swelling numbers. It is true that the weather was not conducive to an excursion away from home with an uncertainty as regards the possibility of obtaining adequate shelter from the rain which began on Tuesday night and continued intermittently until yesterday morning when rain gjave place to cold chilling showers of hail driven by a strong south-west wind. There were also one or two falls of sleet. But the event was one for which citizens of Empire far and wide had made preparations, and many parents were so committed to their children to go forth to view the Prince that It would have been necessary for the skies to open to their widest to deter numbers of families from their planned purpose. From about 9.J0 the children began to arrive by special trains, being unloaded at the Show Grounds and the local youngsters were seen—sometimes under trying weather conditions—later making their way to the scene of review. All were dressed in their best, and on their faces was depicted what was to be seen in a less marked form on the faces of the elders—the eagerness of anticipation. As the day wore on tram cars bore many people into town from the suburbs. They shewed a variety of opinion as to the best point at which to see the proceedings. .Many of those who desired mostly to see events at the show grounds made for there early, consequently, by 1,30 the stand was well on towards being filled. Others ranged themselves along various points of vantage on the line of route and others again, with an evident desire to see the whole sequence of events took themselvs to th Railway Station to find after the train arrived that their efforts to see the arrival, the procession and the ceremony with anything like comfort were to prove unsuccessful, for the route was mostly so thickly lined that it was impossible for a spectator to keep pace with the movement, While, by the time the procession was near the grounds, they became bo packed that those on the outside had no chance of getting near the scene of the ceremony. But those who did not see all they hoped for were good humoured in their disappointment, doing their best to place themselves in a position of vantage. It had been arranged that, in view of the uncertainty of the weather, the executive of the Reception Committee should meet at 11 o’clock to decide whether the afternoon proceedings should take place in the shelter of the Garrison Hall. Although there was good reason to be afraid of the weather, the meeting decided to carry out the original programme. This resolve resulted from the belief that It would be impossible to get any reasonable portion of the public inside the building, while, as was pointed out, there would be , many who, left outside, would suffer in the event of rain as they would if the proceedings were held in shelter. The wisdom of the decision was apparent later when thousands on thousands wended their way to the grounds, and theceremor.y of presenting the addresses and the reply as well as the inspection was carried out under dry conditions. There was a fair number, however, who, lacking confidence in the elements, chose to remain under the protection of the street verandahs. After the afternoon ceremony no rain fell, and a better night for out of doors could not have been. A feature of the early morning was the number of bandsmen in town, and from 10 a.m. the holiday crowds gathered in the vicinity of the Rotunda to listen to the Sth Regiment, Riverton, Hibernian and Ripe bands play. The music did much to keep the waiting people in good spirits. Nevertheless, repeated cold showers had a depressing effect, and it was scarcely to be expected that a people naturally not volatile should rise to any great pitch of enthusiasm in the face of a biting wind during the in -Itial stages i ’ the welcome. The decorations, also, which had to withstand i.-uch dampness and strong winds during the night were not looking at their best. But. from the arrival at the show grounds the enthumr'-m became more marked, and, by the time of the evening reception, R had risen sufficiently to make all those taking part In proceedings remember them for a long time. It is a tribute to the Mayor and those others who did so much to ensure the success of the welcome to say that the proceedings passed off without a hitch of importance. It is true that, given a fine day, a larger crowd might have been present, but, the effect of the weather in this respect detracted scarcely any from the responsibility of those organising the welcome. The police officers, also, whose duties were not as arduous as might have been the case if the route had not been roped off, carried out their work with wery suceeM-

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THE PIUXCE AEBIVES

forcement of the law. and lawlessness, its I curb, and citizens of varied social standing j gazed on the Heir to the British Throne—i truly a rarely constituted assemblage! | The frowning prison building, with its high stone walls excluding the world’s I movement, passed, u scene of gaiety broke l on the eyes of the processionists. About an eighth of a mile distant small flags moved and fluttered, and, borne on the winds came : the wild cheers of thousands of school chil- • dren with lusty lungs. How they cheered and how those flags waved! Surely the undeveloped lungs and arms must have ached before it was all over! Given a fine I day the sight would have been memorable, | and. oven as it was, it will not easily be for-otten. Tlia Union Jack was (here in thousands of places and behind, each flag was a young New Zealander whose best means of doing honour to the visitor was to cheer at his loudest, and cheer he did. When this scene broke on the Prince he was obviously pleated.

GREETED WITH CHEERS. SCENE AT THE STATION. The Royal train arrived about five minutes late, having left Mat-aura a quarter of an hour behind time. As one carriage flashed past a number of those in waiting declared that the Prince was standing on the platform, but this was not so. Sir William Fraser was amongst the first to step off, and, after he had been engaged in conversation with th? Mayor of Invercargill (Mr John Stead, M.8.E.) for a few minutes, the Prince, accompanird by 'Kcc.r-Admirai Halsey, alighted from 'he last carriage. 'Lit? Mayor was presented to his Royal Highness by Sir William, his Worship then presenting in turn the town councillors, town clerk (Mr F. Bunvelli, Hon. A. F. Hawke, M.L.C., Hon. John Topi Patuki, M.L.C., Hon. J. A. Hamm, M.P., Mr J. R. Hamilton, I M.P., Mr A. Hamilton, M.P., Messrs J. Holloway (Mayor of South Invercargill', A. Rain (chairman of the Bluff Harbour Board i, W. Norman (chairman Southland County Council), J. Ilorreil (chairman Wallace County Council), and Inspector W. Fouhy. After the official handshake had been given all round, the Prince using Ids loft hand, the Royal visitor lost no time in proceeding to the front of the station in company with the Mayor. Ho ascended the decorated platform outside, his first appearance Vicing announced by a shrill pipe from children leaning out of the window in an adjacent two-storey building. The cry was taken up, cwcuing to a good volume, but it could hardly bo called a cheer. The Prince and the Mayor stood side by side in the front of the platform with heads bared the former bowing charmingly to the aeclai matory multitude. The other members of ] the party stood at the rear while the playing of "God Save the King” by th? Sth Regiment Band was in progress. After inspecting the guard with every evidence of interest, the Prince entered his car which was driven forward rc> (hat he might receive the Royal Salute from the guard which was furnished by the Southland Regiment. I Captain D. Rae was in command of the j guard and the colours, which had been previously presented by the Regiment to the guard, were borne by second Lieutenant I McDonald. The rcene ns the Prince of all 1 Britons stood in his car with bowed head ! to receive the salute was one to be immort- | alised in the mind of witnesses. The civic i party were then despatched in motors, and j the Royal party followed in a splendid col--1 lection of sister cars, the Prince being accompanied by Rear-Admiral Halsey. THE PROCESf-lON. ROUTE LINED BY THOUSANDS. Hours before the anival of the train the public began to assemble along the line of route. Such determination in the ; face of the elements did not have its just j reward in every cate for many times those i erriv on the scene were driven to shelter j by showers while later arrivals secured the 1 coveted positions when the rain eased. ! And so the circle went round, and, no I doubt, in many cases the first to arrive ultimately won their way back to positions j where they could see all that happened on I their particular front. But, by the time the procession pot under way the waiting at the mercy of the elements had a bad ! effect on the spirit of the watchers. The ! crowd was mast thickly gathered along the 1 Crescent, and when the Royal car passed i th" expressions of welcome were sufficiently ! enthusiastic to cause His Royal Highness ■ to rise from his seat, and, hat in hand, thus ! acknowledged the salutes, but further on j th? cheering was more straggly. 1 The civic party, containing those who 1 had been introduce;! to the Prince, moved i away fir-t from the station, the Royal i party following. The combined pipe bands, I which were to have led the procession, starter! some Cm? before, ami, so unfortunately had their departure been timed, that they were in the show grounds before the first car in the procession reached its destination. As the Royal car moved up towards the I Crescent arch the cheers, broke out afrerir. The Prin-'B rose from his scat, and, bowing and smiling, caused the cheers to increase in strength. When Dee street was reached, however, the ranks of the spectators were thinner and the Prince resumed his seat. He doffed his hat on several occasions when a section of those outside the ropes were particularly loud in their cheers, and, smiling winningly through the haze of smoke from his cigar, brought the spectators to their tip-toes in an eagerness to see more of that smile! "The dear, dear Prince,” s-t/hed one old lady when she saw the sunshine radiating from under the felt hat, "how young ho 100k q . Juri- to think that he will he King of England. And such a dear. I always thought Kings were sour looking people.” And such, probably were the feelings of most as they saw the slim boyish figure with the very fair hair, now chatting with his sea-faring friend and now acknowledging the plaudits of the crowd. A dear Prince truly! The flags and the garlands with which the streets wore decorated seemed to catch the eye of the Prince, and ever and anon he would glance upwards at a particularly taking piece of decoration. His interest, in fact, seemed never to flag for a second. He was always alive, and very much alive—this was the impression that the crowd gathered. At times the children became enamoured of a gay uniform worn by one of the members of the local staff, perhaps, or by one of those attached to the Royal entourage. ‘‘That is the. Prince.” a little hov would pipe, and a carefully prepared bouquet would be thrown prematurely to land on the person of an embarrassed officer. But, when the real Prince came on j the scene, although there was no bouquet to | throw, perhaps, there was a reinforcement j of enthusiasm to compensate. Along Dee street the procession went without the occurrence of any incident of importance. It was left to Victoria Avenue to provide the sensations When the Borstal Institution came in sight a line of white hats was seen lining the top of a wall. A little further on, and the faces of about 50 inmates —intensely interested spectators —came into view. At each end of the line the presence of warders represented the en- ,

AT THE SHOW GROUNDS THE OFFICIAL WELCOME. PRESENTATION' OF DECORATIONS. The secnc at Use a’vivgromids was one of great rnthusiann and Lmg before the i—nce >v;-s timed to ani.o Free crowds had asw:.Wlfd in order to rr.urc positions where ’" ;■ be ■ <■: obtaining a pood view of the Koval visitor. The children from the c; tin try .riooi: wore the first to reach the grounds and at.m-ugh the weather was i,.. 0 v p n.-ino second glance to see thud their anticipation of seeing the Prince was uppcvmc.ft in their minds and that they were no: to allow the ad- ; verse conditio!;-; to spoil that pleasure. At j the tinm appoint'.”.! tin* children from tho ' town .‘■chor.h joined! those from the country am! they were draw:; up into position in front of the grandstand and to the right of the Royal stand. Soon after the military n'trade com.-wi'ir.g 22 territorial officers, 1034 territorials, 258 returned soldiers (including 22 South African veterans', 20 returned officers, and a number of Bfa.lT officers and men took up their position to the right of the Royal stand. As the returned soldiers filed past, the children cheered wildly and many of the older folk mistook it for the signal that the Prince was in sight. The returned men were formed up in a hollow square immediately in front of the Royal stand and the two front rows of the scats for the official guests were reserved for nurses and disabled soldiers. Every now and. thru the bands entertained the large assemblage by playing patriotic select ions ant: the children broke into cheers. All the earl: cr enthusiasm, however, was eclipsed by that displayed by the young folk when the ear;- bearing the Royal visitor, his suite, and the Mayor and Town Councillors made their way through (he entrance gates to rho grounds. Thousands of the little ones, each waving a flag, sent up cheer after cheer, winch must have thrilled all who heard it. and given the Prince assurance that his coming had been an event of great importance to (lie children. When the slight figure of the Prince, clad in gray, stepped from the car near the Royal enclosure the cheering was renewed with even greater •rigour. As the Prince entered tiro gateway leading to the Roval enclosure one of those little incidents which have so endeared the Pri ice to the people in till parts of the Dominion, occurred. As he entered the gate a number of little flower girls, some from each of rite town school', threw dowers in his path and one little girl. Beverly Tansley, handed him a buttouh <!e .;nu kissed his hj ui.l. Jn the buttonhole w:r- written "Love from Bev - erly.” The Pr’iue load tiie note and smilingly accepted the n and pinned it in his coat and there it remained for the real of the afternoon. Tiie M ayor, Mr John Steed, and other members of the official parti’ were the ih-.-.t to take tip their position on the Royal stand and as the Prince made his way through them and stepped on to the platform in front, the Royal Standard was flown and the prince accepted the Royal Salute. He then inspected the parc.de end on returning to the stand he was presented with the following addresses which were read by the Mayor:— TOWN COUNCIL. To His Royal Highness Prince Edward Albert Christian George Andrew Patrick David, Prince of Wales, Earl of Charter, Duke of Cornwall, Duke cf ficthesay, Earl of Carrick, Barcn 6f Renfrew, Lord of the Isles and Great Steward of Scotland, High Steward of Windsor. K.G., G.M.M.G., G.M.8.E., Military Cross. Etc. May it Please Your Royal Highness,— We, the Mayor, Councillors and Burgesses of the Borough of Invercargill desire to extend to you a sincere and cordial welcome, not only to our town but also to the District of Southland, of which Invercargill is the commercial centre. We would assure Your Royal Highness that in this, the most southerly portion of tho British Empire, the inhabitants yield to none in their loyalty and devotion to Our Gracious Sovereign, Your Royal Father, King George V. Like that of His Majesty, when Duke of York, the visit cf Your Royal Highness to the Empire overseas will serve to strengthen the sense of unity and brotherhood throughout the British dominions, while it will also bring you into personal touch with these remotest parts of Empire, over which you may one day be called upon to reign as King. In common with His Majesty’s subjects throughout the Empire, Your Highness must have derived intense satisfaction from the victorious termination of the Great War which, whftst it resulted in irreparable loss and suffering to victor and vanquished alike, yet served to show that in the domin : ions overseas as well as in the Horned land, there still survive untarnished those supreme virtues of courage, selfreliance and endurance for which our nation is so justly famed.

Wo desire to express the hope that the peace that has now been proclaimed may bo a lasting one, that the social and industrial unrost now existing in many parts of the Empire may cpcedily come to an end, and that harmonious relations between ail sections of the community may soon be reestablished so that the Empire may advance in solidarity and prosperity. We desire gratefully to record our appreciation of the great service rendered to the Empire by Their Majesties King George and Queen Mary in organising help for the sick and wounded, in speaking words of cheer to, our soldiers in hospital and in providing materia! comforts for our soldiers on the battlefield. in this war work Their Majesties were ably assisted by Your Royal Highness, by Princess Mary and other members of the Royal Family. The association of Your Royal Highness with the armies in the field and your interest in the Forces from the overseas dominions, including those from this country, wore a source of particular satisfaction to the subjects of your Royal Father in this part of his realm. We greatly value the honour that you have conferred upon Invercargill and Southland generally by your visit, and wo trust that the impression made by the scones through which Your Royal Highness has passed and the people you have met, both here and throughout the dominion, may be a lasting one, and that the knowledge gained from your tour may enable you to grapple confidently and successfully with the problems of Empire that may from time to time arise. SOUTHLAND COUNTY COUNCIL.

His Royal Highness, Edward Albert Christian George Andrew Patrick David, ..Prince of Wales, Earl of Chester in the Peerage of the United Kingdom, Duke of Cornwall in the Peerage of England, Duke of Rothesay, Earl of Carrick and Barcn of Renfrew in the Peerage of Scotland. Lord of the Isles and Great Steward of Scotland, K.G., G.M.M.G., M.C., etc., etc. May it please Your Royal Highness,— We, the Chairman, Councillors and inhabitants of the County of Southland beg to extend to Your Royal Highness a right loyal welcome on this most auspicious occasion—the first on which Southland has had the honour of being visited by a member of the Royal Family, whose head, our Gracious Sovereign King George V. has no more devoted subjects than the people of Southland, which forms an important part of New Zealand, “the greater Epitain of tho South,” as it has been happily termed. In view cf the part Your Royal Highness took in the tremendous conflict which ended in victory for the Allies it is scarcely nececsary to recall the manner in which the manhood cf New Zealand. in common with that of the Empire’s other deminions, responded to the call cf King and country. Generous tributes have already been paid to their bravery, endurance and initiative. Many of our returned soldiers have gone on the land, and are now engaged in the important task of increasing the primary products of the dominion, of which the Southland district contributes p. very substantial amount. We rre pleased to know that Your Royal Highness is taking an active interest in +ho rn.-wultu"-) and industrial development of the Empire. We Rust, in conclusion, that the rest cf the tour cf Your Royal Highness may be attended by the good fortune which has so far marked it; that the knowledge you will have gained of the feelings and aspirations of His Majesty's lieges in these southern lands will be of'service to your Royal Highness in years to come: and that your report of us will be that of a happy, loyal and contented people—a people who can justly boast the enjoyment of “a greater measure of freedom, combined with security, than any other State has known.” THE PRINCE’S REPLY. In reply the Prince said:— Mr Mayor and Chairman of the County Council. I am very grateful for the cordial welcome which has met me in Invsrcargill to-day and I thank you sincerely for the loyal addresses which you have presented on behalf of the Borough of Invercargill and the County of Southland. I have been particularly touched by your references, Mr Mayor, to the part played by the King and Queen during tha war, and I shall bo happy to teli their Majesties on my return of the loyalty and devotion which you have expressed. I can assure you that they retain the happiest memories of their visit to New Zealand 19 years ago. 1 know that they were never in this county and I am all the more glad to have been able to come here myseif to-day. I am only sorry that my visit here is so short, for it has proved a very happy and pleasant concluding chapter in the wonderful journey which I have made through the Dominion in the last month, i cannot tell you adequately how much I appreciate the affectionate welcomes which have met me everywhere. The memories which i I shall take away with me will always ' remain among the most valued of my ; life. i It is a great pleasure to me to have this opportunity of seeing here, as elsewhere, so many of the gallant men who served the Empire at the front in , the Great War. I value deeply my association with them as comrades in arms and nothing has pleased me more then this opportunity of seeing them in their own land, amongst their own homes and with their kith and kin. Many, alas, will never return, many too, will never recover the health and strength which they once enjoyed. I offer my sincerest sympathy to all who have suffered disablement or toss. j

This is the last visit of my tour, but fate will be very unkind to me if it prevents me from renewing my recent experiences at some future time. May I wish the Borough of Invercargill and the district of Southland all possible happiness and prosperity? EDWARD P. The conclusion of the Prince’s reply was the signal for a prolonged outburst of cheering, which the Prince acknowledged by raising his hat and smiling to the great crowd gathered before him. The official guests were then presented, and immediately afterwards a number of returned men with decorations won on the field of battle. As each man came before the Prince to receive his distinction he was detained for a moment by the Prince, who had a few words to say before shaking hands with him. Decorations were presented to the following : DISTINGUISHED CONDUCT MEDALS. 8/2913 Sgt. R. E. Fortune. 65162 Pte. W. G. Vial. MILITARY MEDALS. 326G7 C.S.M. C. E. Henry. 49255 Sgt. J. O’Donnell. 26/1129 Sgt. N. C. Neilson. 9/1026 Sgt. H. P. Mclntyre. I 25/603 Sgt. A. H. Coster. | 9/1179 Sgt. G. Hall. 1 8/4144 Cpl. C. W. Humphries 29845 Cpl. J. O’Brien. 1 27608 Cpl. J. S, Sutherland, I 6/1202 Cpl. W. H. Wilson. 22304 L./Cpl. A. J. Butler. 27497 L./Cpl. A. Grant. 17851 L./Cpl. W. T. Turner. 8/3692 L.-Cpl. J. W. McKay. 16585 Pte. W. Robertson. 53585 Pte. C. J. Hawkes 31686 Pte. J. W. Bradshaw. 9/1926 Pte. G. A. McKay. 9/1432 Dvr. G. H. Hansen. 29860 Pte. H. O. Raines. 32530 Pte. A. Diack. 23/941 Pte. W. C. Turner, j 24/1149 Gnr, A. W. H. Newton. I 29791 Pte. T. A. Keen, j 29941 Pte. W. E. Tomkins, i Decorations were also presented to next-of-kin as follow; j Mrs Fletcher (mother), L./Sgt. G. E. : Fletcher. M.M. Mrs J. Hunter (mother), Fte. W. G. Hunter, M.M. j Mrs R. Johnstone (mother), T./Sgt. R. ' Johnstons, M.M. I His Royal Highness then inspected the parade, which was under the command of Colonel Hargest, D.5.0., and Major Glendinning, and addressed a few words to the returned soldiers. He said: “I am glad to see so many of you here to-day, but am sorry that you have had to stand out in the cold so long. I watched your activities in the war with great interest and trust that in your civil life you will be as successful as you wore in the army.” At the Prince’s wish all the returned soldiers were presented to him. The nurses were the first 1o meet the Prince, and then came the oldest veteran on parade, Mr Boyd, who took part in the Crimean War. The Prince appeared to be greatly interested in this old soldier, and conversed with him for several minutes. They both were apparently very pleased to have had the opportunity of meeting each other and as the aged Crimean veteran marched away he was wearing a smile which spoke volumes for the satisfaction it had given him. The Prince also had a kindly word for all the disabled men. who were at the head of the returned soldiers, and until the last man had passed before him his cheery smile never wavered. Occasionally he would detain someone for a special word, and once when the sailor who hoisted the Royal Standard at the grounds came before him, the Prince appeared to have met an old friend. At the conclusion of this ceremony the Royal Salute was again given, and the official guests were presented. Last of all, but not the least important, came the Prince’s inspection of the school children, and as he made his way through the crowd to the adjacent stand facing the ■=mall folk, he was given a rousing reception. Cheer upon cheer went up from the children and it was some time before the Prince could speak to them. After his address the children sang the National Anthem and once more the cheering was renewed. As the Prince hoarded his car the large gathering quickly assembled along the Royal route leading out of the grounds and as the car passed on its way. the scene was one of tremendous enthusiasm.

| AT THE HOSPITAL. As the Prince's car drew out of the showground the cheering was renewed, and he passed through an enthusiastic throng that accorded him a great ovation. On reaching the Hospital he was met by the Superintendent, Dr Wilson, who wore the uniform of a captain of the N.Z.M.C., Matron Ewart, Mr James Fleming, chairman of the Hosptal and Charitable Aid Board, and the secretary', Mr T. Prydc. The nurses were drawn up at the entrance and cheered the Prince as he arrived, and were afterwards presented, the Prince having a word with each. After receiving the nurse? and stall the Prince made a visit of inspection, and chatted with the patients as he went around the wards, leaving them all with smiling faces. As he walked out of the ward the patients gave him a hearty cheer which made the ward ring. AT THE GRAND HOTEL THE PRINCE ENTERS. THE GUARD OF HONOUR. The presenting of the Sth Regiment Colours to the Guard of Honour took place in front of the Post Office as 2-15 p.m. and the ceremony was watched by a large crowd. The Guard, 100 strong, under Captain D. Rae, M.C., marched down Dee street from the Drill Hall, headed by the Sth Regiment Band, and halted in front of the Post Office. The guard were then drawn up and two sergeants were told off as escort to the colours. The Colours and escort came to a halt in front of the Guard, which came to the Royal Salute before receiving the Colours. Lieutenant McDonald acted as Colour bearer, and the Colours, which were of

silk were embossed "South Africa 18991900.” Upon receiving the Colours the Guard marched to the station to await tha arrival of the Prince. The Prince went into residence at 4.30 p.m., and the Guard of Honour drawn up outside the entrance of the Grand Hotel gave the Royal Salute as His Royal Highness alighted from his car. The eager throng crowded round to see the Prince enter his apartments and were loth to depart, waiting for another glimpse of the Royal guest. The j appearance of the Prince on the balcony overlooking Dee street was the pretext for ' renewed cheering, which was gracefully acI knowledgecl. After a few minutes the Prince withdrew and reluctantly the crowd began to disperse, knowing that they would not obtain another glimpse of His Royal Highness until the evening ceremony at the Drill Hall. THE DINNER. The following is the menu of the Royal dinner at the Grand Hotel last night:—? Oyster on Shell. SOUP. Consomme Printaniere. Hare Soup. FISH. Fillets of Manapouri Trout, Villcroi ENTREE. Asparagus en branches. JOINTS. Sirloin of Beef and Yorkshire Pudding. Quarter of Lamb and Mint SaucePOULTRY AND GAME. Roast Turkey. Boiled Chicken and Ham. Roast Native Wild Duck. SWEETS. Plum Pudding, with Brandy Sauce, Cherry Pie. Macedoine of Fruit. Wine Jelly. Trifle au Vin Rouge. Cigarettes au Frontage. Dessert. Cafe. Invercargill. May 20, 1920. THE PRINCE GRATIFIED. AN INFORMAL PRESENTATION. Invercargill need have no qualms about the accommodation it can provide for distinguished guests. The Prince’s party were loud in their praises of the comfort that was theirs during the short stay, and Hig Royal Highness and his staff each personally thanked the manager of the Grand Hotel (Mr T. Rutherford) for the attention shown them. It was stated by some that nothing as good in the way of accommodation had been met with since the party left Auckland. On entering the hotel the Prince was presented with a bouquet by Mr Rutherford’s little daughter, Nellie. The .action seemed to please him greatly, and he patted the child’s head and thanked her. The Prince dined with nine of his immediate party, and some eighty others had dinner in the main dining-room THE EVENING FUNCTION DEPARTURE! FOR THE EVENING , RECEPTION. Long before the scheduled time for the Prince to leave the Grand Hotel for the reception in the Drill Hall, the crowd began to gather in front of the hotel to give His Highness a cheer as he left for the evening reception. So eager was the crowd that the police stationed at the hotel had somt difficulty in controlling them but with a little tact they succeeded. The Prince cam* down the steps at t 8.50 p.m. and his arrival was the cue for renewed cheering that was acknowledged in a gracious manner, Tha Prince departed for the Drill Hall with his suite amidst cheering that continued along the whole route. THE GRAND RECEPTION. ANIMATED SCENE AT THE DRILL HALL. Another enthusiastic reception awaited the Prince at the Grand Reception held ia the Drill Hall in the evening. Long before the time appointed for the function to commence the hall was densely packed and it is estimated that from six to seven thousand people were present. Until the arrival of the Prince shortly before nine o’clock tha assembly was entertained by selections from the Hibernian Band, the Invercargill Orphans’ Club Orchestra and the Invercargill Male Choir. Loud cheering outside the hall indicated the entry of the Royal Party into the showgrounds, and shortly afterwards the Prince entered by the door lead- ( ing to the official stand. His entry wai | greeted with prolonged cheering which I echoed and re-echoed throughout the building. The cheering continued for some time and the Prince stood bowing his acknowledgment to the people. The band, orchestra, and male choir then struck up the National Anthem, in which all those present joined. If ever the Prince needed assurance of the loyalty of his subjects it wai given to the Prince of Wales by the volume of sound which arose from thousands of throats all joining in paying tribute to the Prince and to the sovereign whom he represents. As the strains of the National Anthem died away cheering broke out afresh, and again the Prince bowed hi* acknowledgment. For a time the Prince remained standing listening to the musie and conversing with the Mayor during the intervals. He was evidently impressed by the music, and expressed special appreciation of the Welsh National Anthem, “Land of My Fethers” as sung by the Male Choir, end at the plas’ing of the Orphans’ Club Orchestra. During an interval the Prince stepped forward to the edge of the platform and addressed the gathering. He said: “I am very very pleased to have been able to be with you this evening. My visit to Invercargill has been too short for me to see you all here this evening and I am very glad for the hearty welcome 3’ou have given me. I know that there is no seating accommodation here and as I have not seen you as closely as I would have liked to, if you will pass by the stand on your way out I will be able to say “Good-night.”

Admiral Halsey then explained the beat method by which rite Prince’s wish could be carried out, and as the people began to file j>:im the Prince took up his position on the steps and greeted them as they went by. Among those present were many returned soldiers and the Prince was quick to notice them as they passed. There was nothing formal in his greeting to them, while to the older people and to the children he always had an affectionate smile. The Prince rcr.mmed standing for almost forty minutes while Inp people tiled past to leave the hall, anil although it was evident that he could not reach the station at the time arranged for his departure, he showed no signs of being worried, although Admiral Halsey appeared to be reminding him every Dow and then that his time was up. After the people had left the hall the Prince expressed a desire to meet the conductor of the Hibernian Band (Mr A. R. VHllsi, die conductor of the Male Choir (Mr J. E. Taylor), and the conductor of the OrcUfstra iMr H. Glceson). To each of these gentlemen the Prince expressed his appreciation of the music and congratula- j tions on the playing. The Prince departed for the railway station shortly after 10 o’clock, and as he left, the hall to step into his car he was t’nthu.-iasticaliy cheered by the large crowd winch had gathered.

THE FAREWELL

AN ENTHUSIASTIC DEMONSTRATION.

“WILL YOU NO COME BACK AGAIN V

Although his stay in Invercargill was ; brim there could be little doubt in the min oi anyone wit tie-sing his departure that I succeeded in finding his way to the heat of the citizens. The Royal party left th Drill Hall a few minutes behind schedul time. From the experience on the firs stages of the Journey it was evident thr the send-off was to be worthy of the occ; sinn. Young and old lined the sides of th street, and all called out messages of fart well and goodwill. Near Esk street th crowd was particularly dense, and bevies c young lad'es, no longer willing to be kep back by the dividing ropes, pushed up be side the Loyal car. and called and wave good-live-, and tiie Prince stood smiling am bowing in response. All along the route the cheering was gen oral and hearty, but it remained for th' great crowd waiting at the station to giv expression to the most striking ebullitioi of f.vling. Immediately the car stopped th cheering berime even louder, but the ITinci first gave his attention to his car drive (Mr A. V,'. Baton' whom he thanked fo; hi- care and attention. His Royal High nr-- then ascended the dais and doffed hi: hat ;■> the t!ag-waving and cheering crowd In the company of the Mayor he then ea ten i file station, his action serving as i magac' to the people who pressed aftei him on to the platform. Here the Guarc of n-rnour provided by the Boys’ High SYio:■! Senior Cadets was drawn up, ant the Prince cock a few minutes to inspect it The crowd was so douse round his carriage by ini.- time that the police had to clear e passage for lire Prince to gain access to his car. His Royal Highness shook hands with the members cf the civic and military partv and ascended the platform. This was the signal for the greatest outburst of cheering cf th" day. During the lulls voices were to 1’" iie-rd rarelainilug "Good-bye Prince 1“ and ar? you coming back?” But no answer came except in the understanding and appreciation that was apparent, on the face of tiie Prince. lie stood and bowed, nn occ isional sunny smile lighting up his face. V> hi!" he stood thus an elderly Lady pushed tv> the front and presented him with a souvenir. The Prince appeared much in-r--rested in the gift and thanked the donor heartily. At Pi.s p.m. the train moved away and the Srh Regiment Band struck up a tune that was distinctly fitting to the feelings of these present. "Will Ye No Come Back Again?” was the tune, and, even as the wistfulness of the music was adding to the poignancy of the occasion there was added that touch of humour that brightens pathos the world over. A marine who had evidently not been counting the moments in some secluded spot of the station made a sudden dash when the Prince's carriage was almost out of the platform and, with the tigilitv that belongs to seamen, took a leap th at carried him over the bars anti arch of the Royal platform. .And so, to the tune oi the old Scottish lament at a mortal parting and the thunder of cheer on cheer that Tent tiie air, the Prince of Wales left Invercargill. PRINCE DELIGHTED. In raking farewell of the Mayor and Mayoress the Prince tendered his warm thanks for the hospitality extended to him in Invercargill. He had been delighted, he said,, with the way the people had received h ; :u ar, i with the arrangements made for &is entertainment. "I am perfectly delightwl with the visit," he assured Mr Stead. THE DECORATIONS

A BRILLIANT NIGHT DISPLAY. FAIRYLAND STREET'S. The decorations erected for the Prince's visit stood the severe buttering of the gale on Wednesday night remarkably well, and presented a gootl display' on his Royal High-er-s'- arrival yesterday afternoon. The arch erected at the entrance of the Crescent was the first to greet, the Prince with the words “Welcome to Southland" standing out well. The arch consisted of lattice work, interlaced with native flax, ami decorated with greenery, the Union Jack flying over all. The route along the Crescent was outlined v. ith fern trees and on approaching the soldier.-' memorial, at the foot of Dee street, festoons of greenery were strung across the Space from the memorial to the streets corners, the whole making an effective display. Along the procession route festoons of greenery were interspersed with banners giving a welcome from the various towns in Southland. The banners were from the Southland County Council ,the Bluff Harbour Board, the Wallace County Council, Four]'. Invercargill, Otautau, Riverton, Winton, Lumsden, Edendnle, Mat aura. Bluff and Kightcaps. Pride of place in the banners vu allotted to one bearing the inscription ‘’Welcome to Southland, the most Southerly Province in the British Empire," it being flown directly opposite the dais at the Railway Station, where it would be seen by the Royal gue.-t directly he had left the train. : Bri-t oe's corner a drive constructed e.i----t-rel.v of native flora was erected. This was , the- idea of Mr J. C. Smith, who supervised ] the t rtetion of it. This was one of the | features of the decorations and presented u fine spectacle. At the entrance to the | showgrounds another arch was erected, 1 which made a fitting entry to the scene of ! the civ;' 1 reception. | In the evening the town presented a i fairvland appearance when all the lamps ] that were interlaced with the greenery were I lighted. The effect was one that will never | be forgotten by those who witnessed it. The j arch at the foot of the Crescent showed up l touch belter under the electric light and j made a good showing. Tire Post Office j which was illuminated by electricity was a ' right urn! the crown in coloured lights, ] which was the apex, put a pleasing finish upon a brilliant illumination. The Soldiers’ J. •m-iriiJ also made a fine showing and the ; of ih-‘ searchlights that picked out the figure of the soldier sunnountingjhe mem- I i ri d -.eve the public a chance of seeing the | mwoo,vd under conditions which showed I it to a' - .vantage. The Grand Hotel frontage to Df .-treet was resplendent with electric fight cud this made a brilliant display. The light from (lie hotel showed right across the stree-. and allowed those gathered to give the Prince a ch'fr on his way to the evening function. The effect of the night illumination was made more effective by the glisten upon the street: produced by the recat rains, and the reflections of the lights made a harmonious finish, which took away any hard effect that might have been present had the streets oeen dry.

BELIEVER IX EXERCISE THE PRINCE’S CONSTITUTIONAL. PLEASED WITH INVERCARGILL GARDENS. A Times’ representative learnt from the Prince’s private secretary - (Colonel Grigg), that His Royal Highness, who has never had an illness, is in the pink of condition, and so he appeared to all who saw him. There is a spring in his walk and a colour iu his face that could come only from plenty of exercise other than hand-shaking. According to Colonel Grigg, the Prince gives at least one hour every day to strenuous physical exercises of varied descriptions. He is aiso a firm believer in walking as a means to the great end of keeping fit, and he endeavours to pass as much time as possible in 'the open. Yesterday, after returning from the Show grounds, he called a taxi, and, in company with Lord Mountbatten. vvtts motored down Clyde street as far as No. 1 gardens. They then alighted and walked through all the gardens and j back to the hotel. The Prince stated that j he had greatly enjoyed the outing, ami was j impressed by the gardens. Probably not I one person they passed recognised the | figure walking through Invercargill’s public ■; gardens with the hat pulled over his eyes j ns the Prince of Wales.

WITH THE CHILDIiEX

BRAVE UNDER ADVERSE CONDITIONS.

SCENES AT THE SHOWGROUNDS

To the children the day was a great one, ’ and although they had to undergo much I discomfort, it is probable that only pleasant ‘ memories will remain with them of the 1 Prince’s visit. For weeks past the children ‘ had been looking forward to his coming, and it would have taken a great deal more than the rain and hail of yesterday to have prevented the majority of them from fulfilling their anticipations. To some of the ■ country children the occasion meant a long and arduous journey by train, and those from the Lakes district had to set out on Wednesday. Others started on their journey at 4 o'clock yesterday morning, but this to them appeared a small matter. From shortly after 9 a.m. until after noon trains arrived from the various country districts, each bearing hundreds of happy children, whose minds wore set on seeing the Prince, to them not only the Prince of M ales, but their Prince. As they stepped from their carriages on to the railway platform their smiling faces provided ample evidence that the little ones were expecting to spend one of the groat days of their lives. Unfortunately the heavy fall of snow at Otautau prevented a number of the school children from coming into town, and no doubt their disappointment would be keen. Considering the weather, however, the muster was a surprisingly good one, and it was estimated that over 2,500 country children took part in yesterday’s function. On leaving the station the children were marched along the Royal route to the Show Grounds, where within the building under the grandstand refreshments were awaiting them. These consisted of either tea or cordials, together with a plentiful supply of cakes, and the children did not neglect their appetites. Childlike, however, they invariably chose the cordials instead of tea, and gave additional evidence that their journey had gone light with them. Although the Committee, under Mr F. Stevenson, who attended to the children’s material welfare, had a strenouous day, they appeared to gain satisfaction from the happiness reflected by the small ones in their care. After they had finished their meal the children congregated ;n the grandstand and experienced no difficulty in passing away the time until they were formed up in readiness to greet

the Prince. Shortly after 1 o’clock the children from the town schools, numbering just over 1000 began to assemble at the places appointed in Gala street and when the time came marched to the Show Grounds where they joined the country children. Then came a long time of waiting in the rain and hail, but although some of them must have felt bitterly cold they took an interest in everything that was going on around them. To the returned soldiers they gave a rousing reception, so spontaneous that many of the older people who had reached the grounds early in order to secure a position of vantage, mistook it for the signal of the arrival of the Prince. Then followed the fulfilment of the children’s expectations, and one hearing the enthusiastic welcome given to the Prince by the children, could not but feel that His Royal Highness had in no way fallen short of the thoughts which the children had formed of him. Never for a moment during the whole after, noon did the interest of the children appear to flag, and each bore a smile of contentment which remained long after the function had concluded. The children from the town schools were dismissed on the Prince’s departure, but the country children once more made their way to the refreshment room there to receive a bag of lollies each and something still more substantial to cheer them on their return journey to their homes.

IN THE cnowi)

COLD FEET AND WARM HEARTS. INCIDENTS IN THE STREETS. (Contributed.) It was cold standing in the streets. Wet underfoot, a capricious sky that gave sunshine to tempt one into the open and then hail and a biting wind to drive one to dicker over muddy puddles, made the waiting for the coming of the Prince a test for loyalty; but the people stuck it out and there was no doubt about the warmth of their welcome when H.R.H. arrived. We were abroad early, heavy-coated and umhrella’d. muffled and soundly shod, and first we—the Hope of My House and I—stamped up and down the streets looking at the decorations and trying to decide what writing had once been upon the washed out banner that flapped purposelessly near Esk street. We gave it up at last and decided on a gootl possie where wo could breast the rope and see the procession of the Great. The verandahs and the footpaths were inviting and we sheltered there for a while, as the snow, not enough to make the scone picturesque hut sufficient to add to the discomfort, fell, intermingled with rain and hail. Suddenly there was a dash to the lines and we were in front of it. But it was a , false alarm: (,he pilot train had arrived, j Just as we breasted the tape and unfurled | our flags the hail came down and we raced to shelter, leading everybody I am proud I to say by at least two lengths. Ten minutes I later the real thing started. The roar could ! be heard in the distance and covered in cars | came sploshing through the mud. Opposite, i some humorous souls cheered enthusiasticj ally the approach of the Chief of Police and I the civic grandees and then came the | Prince! j He was sitting down, puffing at a cigar that made ms envious. His hat was shaking cheerily and I am afraid that I cheered. The Hope of the House, however, declined to wvve the flag that has braved etc., and he continued to gaze expectantly into the distance, utterly oblivious to the seen* about him. I was puzzled by his quietness for he is au ardent if young monarchist. Suddenly a staff officer, resplendent in khaki., buttons, and shining sword came past. The Heir Apparent of My House i woke to activity. Here at last was a Prince, .Sword, Uniform and all. Cheer rent the air, as the writers say, and we received a gracious smile. Then we went away satisfied and confirmed in our attachment to the Throne, though for different reasons. Later, braving the mud and cold again, I fared to the temporary Royal Residence. Th£ Guard of Honour was being manoeuvred with skill by a man who knew his business. The sounds of martial music were heard afar and the Guard sprang expectantly to attention. It prepared to salute the coming “armed force,” but behold! it was the Winton Band wending its way home-

J ward after a valuable day in which it had contributed in making enjoyment under arduous conditions before the Arrival. The discomforture of the Guard was worth the wait. But best of all came, at a later moment, the arrival of the Royal Oysters at the main , i entrance of the Grand Hotel. They reposed invitingly on the top of a tray which was ’ balanced on the proud head of a man robed with a white coat and importance. ’ The sentry held him up. Evidently it became clear that the oysters w r cro beyond r j doubt and the White-Coated Bearer saluted I gravely as he was passed—into the arms of ; I an overcoatcd personage who looked like • j the most Secret Police that ever escaped I from Scotland Yard. The oysters were ; again in doubt but a nearby friend sup--1 plied the cause of the hitch—the Oyster I Man had forgotten the password, or counter--1 pane or whatever it is you have to possess : Secret Service men interrogate you. No • bombs, no pearls, nothing bad, and in they | went to be received by a Staff Officer who j examined them anew. And then they went fi"-, | Then came the Prince again and once j more I have to confess that I cheered more j lustily than I ever thought I could. After Ihe had gone, I wondered if his feet were i as cold as mine, but he didn’t show it ft j they wore. He smiled cheerily and waved to our lusty roars—cheers become inarticui i.oim's under such circumstances. It was cold after he had gone, but it was worth while. At the station I managed to squeeze nigh unto tii: biue-coated stalwarts near the tailend ot the Royal Train, and there came the revelation of the real Prince Charming. He was tired, but he was too good a sport, too tine a Prince to show it. About me were some of the Deadlier Sex. He had captured their hearts completely. One maiden sighed almost heart-brokenly to think he was going, or broke into unblushing criticisms of His Highness. He looked at us with his happy smile and nodded when someone asked him: “When are you coming back?’’ but he didn’t give us any hint of the possibility of that eventuality. Then my bewitched fellow citizeness sent the balloon up. Her admiration had been growing with the minutes that were ticking past and finally in ecstatic tones that reached the Royal ear she burst out: “Put look at his eyes; aren’t they lovely.” Cold print cannot give you the emphasis that fell on the last word. But it broke the Royal Smile into Royal Laughter and it was only a few seconds later that he left us to the strains of “Will ye no come hack again ?” Again I say that it was infernally cold, | damp, miserable and—worse that “aught i that s writ in books.” But, rain, mud, j suow or a return of my cold-in-the-head, \ it was worth it, though I wish he had an- [ j swered the baud’s final appeal. I want that •; girl to tell us some more about him for j she is representative of the whole town— . me included. ]

THE JOURXEY SOUTH

DUNEDIN TO INVERCARGILL. HAPPENINGS EN ROUTE. (By Our Special Correspondent on the Royal Train.) Dunedin’s farewell was magnificent. The morning was bitterly cold and the people who thronged around the station waited for hours to obtain the last view of the Prince. The farewell formed the only topic of conversation on the train for many miles out of Dunedin except when the attention of the visitors was drawn to the snow-cover-ed hills and side-cuttings: evidence of last night’s fall. The panorama is exquisite. The near-by fields are enlivened by healthy cattle and the trees are breaking the monotony of endless meadows. The hills haven’t shaken off their morning clouds but are sufficiently clear for us to see the snow caps. His Highness was greatly impressed with the farewell function on the Dunedin station, where he shook hands with many people before boarding the train which slowly drew out from amid the thousands of people who have been so proud and pleased with his all too short visit. The train arrived at Miltou at 11.15 when a reception was held in front of the railway station, where a specially decorated platform was erected. The Mayor, Mr Rennie, welcomed Flis flighness with the

customary- civic address, to which the Prince replied, congratulating the borough and country on their war services and growth as a producing centre. A number of returned soldiers were greeted and the band and territorials, the former appearing as a jazz band added brightness to the function. The train drew out on the way for Balclutha amid enthusiastic cheers. We left Milton in sunshine but it soon changed to a slight snowfall, through which we were speeding at 50 miles an dour. Every country road running to the railway line was marked by a small group of cheering people, the first to greet the Prince during a snowfall. One digger, wearing full j uniform stod at the salute on a lonely road as the tiain went past. He was dcteimmcd that the returned soldiers of his district would be represented in some way. A strong wind and the slight snowstorm

made the journey less happy than other sections have been, but the rich farm land was interesting to the party who asked the names and particulars of each town and landmark. The train has lost little time through (ho prolonging of tire reception at Milton, but it is expected that, it will be made up before we arrive at Gore. Balclutha had to entertain the Prince in the snow, but the school children and the many citizens were very pleased and loud in their welcome. The Mayor, Mr 11. Simson, and the chairman of the County Council, Mr J. Mclntyre were present, the former reading the address of welcome to which His Royal Highness replied in an appreciative speech. The snow storm ended at Balclutha and the run to Gore was very pleasant the agricultural territory looking at its best. A remarkable feature of the trip was the manner in which the most isolated people found out the time of the train’s passing and assembled on the roads and at the railway cuttings. They waved flags and cheered and very few of them were neglected by the Prince who was cheerfully passing from one side of the carriage to the other, acknowledging the welcomes from the carriage window. The snow fall had been particularly heavy in this district and the land was quite white. It was of course very beautiful and caused no small amount of admiration.

Clinton was not accorded a stop, but the train slowed down to permit the assembled people to catch a glimpse of the distinguished visitor. The town of Gore was beautifully decorated for the reception to which the party motored through the town. The Mayor voiced the district’s greeting and the Prince, in replying, stud; “You have referred to the great struggle from which the Empire has just emerged. I wish to congratulate this town and district on the services rendered by the gallant men which they sent to the front. I am happy to see many of them present here to-day, and I am heart and soul with you in your tribute to those who will not return. May I offer my deepest sympathy to all those who have suffered disablement or loss. The British Empire may look back with pride upon the victory which it has won. It proved that the Old Country was worthy its past; it also proved that the younger dominions have lost nothing of the grit and character of the parent stock. The wonderful work which the people of this Dominion have done in developing the natural wealth of its soil also told most effectively upon our side in the great test of our moral and material resources in the last five years. You may well be proud of your achievements and confident of your future as a Dominion of the Crown. “I thank you sincerely for your good wishes and I trust this town and district may enjoy much happiness and prosperity.” The town of Gore equalled any other of the smaller towns in the sincerity and enthusiasm of its welcome and His Royal Highness, despite several preceding welcomes, was brightly smiling during the entire procession through the town. The townspeople waved their last farewell, and the train departed on the last stage of the journey to Invercargill, passing

the magnificent scenery which lines the route and causing the visitors to anticipate something exceptional at this last reception in the southernmost town of the tour. A FAREWELL DIMMER AT THE GRAND. THE ROYAL TRAIN PARTY.

j The long tour of his Royal Highness in | New Zealand has almost ended and the ! many officials, concerned in the success of | together for the last time at I ,ile ' jranc ‘ Hotel last evening. The dining j room, previously decorated for the occult 0 "’ was a suitable setting for one of the I "'°n- lnte j;esting functions of the tour. Sir | Wdham Fraser, who has been in charge of I the tnp through the dominion, took the chair, and with him was a distinguished party of those New Zealanders who have travelled through the dominion on the Koyai tram. General Sir Edward Chaytor, Colonel Sleeman, Mr J. Hislop, Under-Secretary for Internal Affairs, Mr McVilly, General Manager of Railways, Mr Keith Murdoch, Mr John Sondes, Mr E. Coates, Dr Scholefield, the Government chronicler, Mr H. Hector Bohtho, the Auckland writer, Mr Morgan of the Press Association, Surgeon Commander Newport, and representatives of several Gov-' ornment departments were present. After a happy dinner, Sir William Fraser proposed the toast of “The King” and later proposed the toast of those gentlemen who had so successfully contributed to the suecess of the tour. Sir William mentioned the names of Mr Andrews of the Postal Department, Mr W. Davey, who has acted as transport officer, Mr Farris, who was in charge of the victualling, and Mr Birrell, of the Railway Department. The healths of these gentlemen were drunk with enthusiasm. Sir William Fraser, in a speech summarising the pleasure of the trip pointed out that the vast details of the tour had bceti passed without a single jarring note; not only among those directly connected with the organisation, but also among the many tuousands of people who had welcomed the Prince at the towns visited. Bir William then proposed the health of the visiting pressmen from London, adding that they had come out here to learn what New Zealanders were like.

Mr E. Coates, Reuter’s representative, in his reply to the toast said: “You are wrong, | Sir William, if I may say so, in saying that j wo came to learn what New Zealanders were | like. We learned that in the experience of ' their service on the blood-stained battle (fields of France. We came here to learn of New Zealand itself.” Mr Coates in thanking the officials who had contributed to the success of the tour, also paid a tribute to the brain behind the organisation, praising the leadership of Mr Massey as the head of the Government. Messrs Keith Murdoch and J. Sandes added their thanks for the tribute to the visiting pressmen. Sir William Fraser referred to the impression that His Royal Highness had made in New Zealand. “Fie has the manner which charms all,” said Sir William. “Not only do the women love him, but the men rire for him from the bottom of their hearts.” Visitors who have travelled south by the train are as enthusiastic in their praise of His Royal Highness ns those whose pleasure it is to gain but a transitory glimpse of him.

Mr J. Hislop rose to propose the toast of Sir McA illy. General Manager of Railways, to which Mr McVilly replied. Sir William Fraser e.dcied a tribute to the military forces who had adder! such a magnificent touch to the many reviews held at the various centres, saying that the military training did not indicate that we wore a militarist nation for the effects of the discipline were evident in the social life of the men in the forces. General Sir Edward Chapter replied to the toast, saying that his part in the training of the men had been small, as they had reached their admirable standard of efficiency when he was absent from New- Zealand. Surgeon-Commander Newport, of H.M.S. Renown, added a tribute to the New- Zealand people he had met during his tour and then the dinner closed with the toast of the chairman, Sir William Fraser, proposed by Mr E. Coates. Sir William, in replying, said that the major part of the work hud fallen to Mr Hislop, the Lender-Secretary for Internal Affairs, whose health he proposed. Mr Hislop, whose part in the arrangements has been undeniably fine, graciously connected himself with Mr McVilly, who, he said, had contributed in equal work to the tour. The dinner closed a tour in which many people have been engaged on detailed work, and Sir William F’raser expressed the opinion of all when ho said that the tour hud passed without a single jarring note. New Zealand could be indeed proud that it had entertained its Royal guest so successfully, i for the tour will five as a vivid memory for both those who came as our guests anil those whose part it was to arrange thy details of their stay in the dominion.

SIDELIGHTS

NOTTS ON THE VISIT. It has been often said that the Prince is nervous in the presence of a crowd, and yesterday he gave evidence that there is something in the statement. For instance, before alighting from the train he lit a cigar which he pulled during the whole of the drive to the showgrounds. Every smoker knows that, when he intends to appear at case when he is far from being so, My Lady Nicotine and her associations supply a valuable covering to the feelings. With a pipe or a cigarette to manipulate the hands nave something to do. Again, at both the afternoon and evening ceremonies, he frequently adjusted his tie, inter-locked and undid his fingers, rubbed the back of his head, and generally appeared not quite at case. When he spoke either publicly or privately. however, this mantle of abstraction dropped from him immediately. Some members of the Royal Party were very much impressed by the illuminated decorations. Colonel Grigg, the Prince's private secretary, told a reporter that he had scon nothing better than the arch of native plants in Dee street throughout the tour

I It was unfortunate that the crowd were 1 permitted to break into the enclosure reserved for the children. The little ones had been eagerly anticipating an inspection by the Prince, but. so densely were the people pressed about them, that His Royal Highness decided that, if he were to inspect them, hurt to some of the children might result. He was therefore reluctantly compelled to forego the inspection to which, it is stated, he hud been looking forward as one of the most enjoyable of the day’s proceedings. The Royal Standard, both at the Show grounds and at the Royal residence at the Grand Hotel, was broke by Arthur P. i Jones, A.8., who served on the H.M.A.S. | Melbourne. The A.B. was among the returned soldiers presented to the Prince at the afternoon ceremony, and the Prince hud quite a long chat with him on his life on board the battleship. In order to give everyone an opportunity of seeing the illuminations it has been decided that the town will be illuminated again to-night. The children gathered to meet the Prince received a welcome gift from Messrs Thomson and Co., who donated 4,000 bottles of mixed cordials. The cordials were used to assist in making the luncheon given to the children by the Education Board more delightful for them. A man may have the gift of the smile and not have a sense of humour; but the Prince of Wales has given ample proof while he has been in the Dominion that he can smile under most circumstances and can always enjoy a joke. Invercargill did not let him away yesterday without the Royal sense of humour being tickled. Shortly before the dining hour at the Grand Hotel a knighted gentleman who has not long severed his connection with Parliament J

was ascending in the lift. On reaching the desired landing the porter discovered that he had forgotten the key in the excitement of the moment resulting from the presence of such noted personages. There was no one to be seen on the landing, and passenger and porter were caged behind the lift bars. Just then, when the dinner hour was dangerously close at hand, relief came in tha shape of the Prince of Wales. The Prince certainly enjoyed the scene, and it is rumoured that he had some humorous remarks to make at the expense of the prisoners. Certain it was that, when His Royal Highness found the manager of the hotel (Mr T. Rutherford) and laid the charge of looking Sir in the cage, it was accompanied by much laughter. There are not many porters who can boast of having been released from a lift by a Prince!

Invercargill marking the finish of the Royal tour, a representative of the Southland Times lasl night endeavoured to get a farewell message from the Prince. He was informed that such a message is to be handed to the Prime Minister for publication in all the New Zealand newspapers. Consideration for the people marked all the Prince’s public actions yesterday. Knowing that they wanted to see him he did his best to gratify their wishes. When the Royal train was leaving last night all but the privileged were kept off the platform. His Royal Highness, however, requested that the crowd should be admitted, and this was done to the gratification of those who had patiently waited outside. Although the weather was not all that it might have been for the Royal visit, the Prince was fortunate in meeting fine weather at each station all down the line. Between stops there were frequent showers, but, as surely as the train pulled up, they ceased. Just before the arrival at Invercargill a particularly heavy downfall was experienced, but, strange enough, during the stay the weather was fine, although another heavy shower fell shortly after the train left.

A slight hitch occurred in the presentation of the medals to returned soldiers anti next-of-kin. A prominent Council official, seeing the medals laid out on a fable in order, thought, seemingly, that they were of no importance. Consequently, he gathered them together in a heap and relegated them to a drawer, and, to complete the job, kicked the table containing them over! Where are the medals? was the question soon asked. When discovered it took some valuable time to re-assort them.

Probably never before has Invercargill had so many men in blue about its streets. Included in the eighty uniformed and plain clothes men attached to the Prince are many who have seen service in various parts of the world. These express themselves as astonished at the good order preserved by the New Zealand crowds during the Royal tour. At no place has there been any evidence of larrikinism, cither individual or organised, while cases of rowdy drunkenness, and, in fact insobriety in any shape, have been noticeably absent.

A member of the Prince’s suite when chatting to a Times reporter stated that two remarkable things were noticeable in the Invercargill welcome. One was that the majority of the Union Jacks were flown right way up and not reversed as many were in the northern centres, the other was that a great many of the returned men, perhaps through nervousness, failed to remove their hats when being received by the Prince.

During the presentation of the returned soldiers at (he reception on the Showgrounds yesterday afternoon one of the ‘'loggers” caused some laughter amongst the Prince’s suite. When the Prince was shaking hands with the soldier he inquired, on seeing his ribbons, “Have you been to Gallipoli?” The “Digger” replied, “No, Sir! I’ve been to Wallacctown.” The Prince who was evidently "in the know,” appreciated the reply, and was seen to laugh heartily as the “Digger” walked down the steps.

The eagerness of the crowd which greeted the Prince at the railway station to get another glimpse of him was manifested by the route that many took in getting to the Show grounds. Instead of following the ordinary route they raced down Leven street and across the Western reserve, using the railway line from there to reach the grounds. Many torn garments were the result of the short cut, as the railway fences interlaced with barbed wire are well strained, which'many found out to their cost.

The Prince has during bis tour through New Zealand gained the reputation of making those by whom he is surrounded feel that he is personally interested in their welfare. A glimpse of that virtue was evident last night at the railway station. Just as the Royal train was drawing out, a little girl in close proximity to the Prince’s carriage called out "Good-bye Prince,” and with a smile that was given direct to the wellwisher the Prince answered “Good-bye.”

When saying farewell to the Quarter Guard which had accompanied him through the dominion and which was dispersed after yesterday’s parade, the Prince presented the senior n.c.o. with a tobacco pouch, upon which was worked the Prince’s crest, and a pipe. To the rank of the guard he presented a tobacco pouch of similar design. While in Christchurch the Prince was photographed with the Quarter Guard, and also with the police who did duty during his stay in the Cathedral City.

The larger functions of the Prince’s visit to New Zealand have been threaded together with many small incidents which have helped to throw new light on His Royal Highness and the thousands of people who greet him.

In no way do the people more generally express their gratitude for the visit than in making small gifts to the Prince. The nature of these presents is very wide in scope, extending from flowers and chocolates to walking sticks. In every town and in every procession the Royal car has been almost filled with bouquets, the fragrant violets usually dominating the choice. One apparently Welsh patriot in Dunedin chose a bunch of leeks as an offering. This typically Welsh offering found its way to the Prince’s residence, but it is doubtful whether they were consigned to the Royal stewpot. A section of the people, so far denied participation in the Royal welcome, added its tribute to that of Invercargill when the reformatory prisoners lined the fence adjoining the road along which the procession passed yesterday. These compulsory guests of His Majesty did not allow their punishment to dull the fervour of their welcome and an enthusiastic cheer greeted the Royal car. His Royal Highness acknowledged the salutation with pleasure and passed on among the people. Invercargill is to be congratulated on its traffic arrangements according to one of the visitors. The manner in which the dense crowds were handled with comfort to both the visitors and the citizens was the subject of general commendation among the guests. Another matter to which attention was directed, was the free us£ of native, greenery in the decorations which were thus characteristic of the country acting as host. The guests at the Grand Hotel were very pleased with the performance of the band which played outside at about the time of the Prince’s return from the show ground. “What band is it?” some of them enquired; a tribute which should be appreciated seeing that they have listened to perhaps 150 bands during the past month. The Royal train, preceded by the pilot train, left last night for Lyttelton direct. The emergency train follows the Royal, the three proceeding at twenty minutes’ interval. The train will go alongside the Renown and the party will go aboard for breakfast.