H. B. IRVING.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXII, Issue 68, 15 March 1912, Page 5

H. B. IRVING.

NEW ZEALAND TOUR FINISHED

O’er Press Association.)

Christchurch, March 14

The conclusion of Mr H. 15. Irving’s Nciv Zealand tour in Christchurch was marked by scenes of extraordinary enthusiasm. The season closed with “The Bells,” and when the drama ended Mr (Irving was called before the curtain and greeted with prolonged applause and cheering. In a most happily-worded little' speech he said he could not'cay how sorry he was that that was his last night, and his last night in New Zealand. He could assure those present that liis tour through New Zealand would be one of the happiest and proudest recollections of his theatrical life. He had no words in which to express his gratitude for the splendid welcome given him in tlie Dominion, and if he tried to express it he war, sure his words would fail him. He could only thank the New Zealand people with all his heart, ami could assure them ho would never forgot them. He hoped also that ho would not be altogether forgotten. (Loud applause.) After all, the actor could only live in tho hearts and me ma les of those who had seen him, and if in. h;s wile, and. his company should nve, at any rate for a time in the (marts and memories of the people of New Zealand they would be more than happy and proud. He thanked them with all Ids heart. It was a long way to come from England, but it was worth coming a much longer distance to meet with such a welcome, and lie hoped it would he his good fortune and Ids privilege in the future to come hack. (Loud applause.) A large crowd assembled outside the theatre, and Mr Irving was again heartily cheered as he left. The, company will leave for the north to-morrow night, on route for Sydney, and after playing a farewell season of two weeks there, will return to England.