THE PARTING GUEST.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LV, Issue 159, 22 November 1912, Page 5

THE PARTING GUEST.

PRESENTATION TO THE GOVERNOR. By Telegraph--Press Association. Wellington, Thursday. Lord Islington, as patron of the New Zealand Institute of Architects, has been presented by the council of the institute with an illuminated address. In acknowledging the gift His Excellency said that he was especially glad his efforts in two important matters affecting the welfare of he Dominion had found such a pleasing response. He had specially interested himself in two questions—the development of agriculture and the improvement of civic life. This afternoon a joint presentation by various women's institutions was made to Lady Islington. It took the form of an illuminated address bound in New Zealand woods.-

WELLINGTON'S FAEWELL. Wellington, Last Night. Over 3000 people attended a farewell meeting in the Town Hall this evening to Lord and Lady Islington. The Major (Mr. D. McLaren) presided, and paid a graceful tribute to their Excellencies saying that they had "stolen (their way into our hearts and made themselves masters of our affections." Though their stay had been short they had interested themselves at every stage in conserving and advancing the intsitutions, aspirations and needs of the people. He recognised the high capacity of Lord Islington in civic government, and appreciated the great interest he had taken in all phases of New Zealand public life. In many respects he was a director and adviser whom it would be impossible to replace. His speeches had embodied sound Imperialism, free from cant, which led New Zealanders to extend the hand of friendship to other portions of the Empire. Lady Islington also by her interest in the welfare of the women and children, had endeared herself to every truehearted woman and spirited man. They had each been true representatives of his Majesty and true helpers and guides in the destinies of the country. He was mire that liis life in future would ever be a movement upward in the interests of Imperial oneness.

The Minister for Internal Affairs, the Hon. 11. D. Bell, on behalf of the Government and country wished their Excellences a tender and grateful farewell. Appreciations were also given by Mr. E. Fletcher (who said that Lord Islington was the best Governor New Zealand ever-had). Mr. T. M. Wilford, M.P. ("who declared that their Excellencies had "made good") and Mr. James Trevor. Replying, Lord Islington heartily thanked the audience for their expressions of loyalty and personal regard. His ideals had been to promote national power and Imperial unity. As Governor, he had endeavored to assist the progress of the country in every stage. He emphasised the importance of agricultural development for this country. It _ was its very blood and marrow. Colonising was still needed, and a wise immigration policy should be prosecuted. Population and development were guarantees of national security. Having presided over three Governments he desired to express the pleasure with which he had worked with each. He had been interested in the establishment of the defence system, and believed that if it secured the hearty co-operation of the people it would be a great protection to the country and a source of great moral good. The naval problem required to be faced in future, hut, however it was decided, he was sure it would be in the direction of lull co-operation with other portions of the Empire and the Homeland. In conclusion he heartily thanked one and all for the courtesy and co-operation extended to him during his stay. Lady Islington also craved a few words of thanks. She hoped the New /inlanders would not lose the qualities-of respect and veneration for what was old, good and beautiful. The greatest heartiness characterised the gathering, which concluded with the singing of the National Anil em.