A GREAT SPONTANEOUS RECEPTION.

Taihape Daily Times, Volume XI, Issue 3497, 27 May 1920, Page 5

A GREAT SPONTANEOUS RECEPTION.

Received 9.30 a.m. MELBOURNE, This Day. After the procession the Prince attended the Governor-General's ball at Government House, where there was a brilliant assemblage. Though the ceremonies at the land-

in'g were shortened and shorn of a good deal of ceremony owing to the delayed arrival, there was a great outburst of cheering and wild enthusiasm from the packed multitude gathered round St. Kilda pier, which was probably more appreciated by the Prince than the more elaborate procedure. His Highness showed a lively appreciation of the great spontaneous people's welcome which greeted him on first setting foot on Australian soil. The route of the procession was lined with soldiers and sailors, who during the long wait found considerable difficulty in keping the impatient crowds in check and clearing a way for the procession as it passed. The jamb Avas so great that many women fainted.

Arrangements had been made for a civic reception at the Town Hall, where there wa s a great gathering, but at the Princq's suggestion the Lord Mayor's address and the Prince's reply were taken as read, the Prince handing his reply to the Lord Mayor with a few words of thanks for the city's splendid reception. The Prince said: "You don't mind if I donj't read it, do you? T will see you again, won't I?"

During the progress the returned soldiers made many demands on the Prince's attention, which was readily accorded. In one instance in a handshake, when the Prince tendered his left hand, he demanded the right. The Prince laughingly conceded. When Collins Street was reached the measured tread of the proecssion was abandoned and the remainder, of the journey was made at a rapid pace. Special provision was made along the route for wounded soldiers and veterans. ALL PREVIOUS RECORDS SURPASSED. Receievd 10.35 a.m.,, MELBOURNE, This Day. For the loss of spectacular effect the entrance of the eßnown, which clear weather would have provided, the people condole themselves that the Prince, landed in Australia in one of Australia's own warships. This consolation made up for a good deal of public disappointment. The Renown missed getting inside the schedule by a mere margin. She held clear weather till the entrance was approached, arriving in good time. Then the fog swept down for some hours, and it leoked if the day's programme would be spoiled. Later it was arranged that the Prince should be taken aboard the destroyer Anzac, whicn had considerable difficulty in discovering the warship OAving to the density of the fog. The Prince was informed that great crowds were awaiting the procession, and heartily concurred and assisted in pushing the arrangements in getting to St. Kildato save the waiting people being disappointed. The mist considerably cleared in tbe bay by the time the Anzac started for the city, enabling her to make a fast run, such saving the situation. The city at night surpassed all previous efforts in the way of illuminations Public and private buildings were brilliantly outlined and the streets were ablaze with coloured lights and designs, the warships and other vessels v in the harbour providing a fine spectacle. The weather late in the day made amends for the misty morning, and the night was fine. Dense, admiring crowds paraded the streets till early morning, showing an exuberance of spirits which towards the close here and there developed into horseplay and practical jokes. The Prince's engagements to-day include a levee and investiture at Government House, presentation of the Federal Parliament addresses and a banquet.