PEACE CELEBRATIONS

Taranaki Daily News, 21 July 1919, Page 6

PEACE CELEBRATIONS

TARANAKI FUNCTIONS

PASS OFF MOST SUCCESSFULLY

Saturday wa§ tEe\day specially set apari to celebrate peace between Great Britain and Germany, after a war lasting nearly five years, that ended in a signal trinmpli for Britain and her allies. The proceedings throughout Taranaki were worthy of so great an occasion, but, perhaps, lacked the spontaneity and relief that marked the .more impromptu armistice celebrations. In common with other places, processions were formed and marched through the towns, flnd speeches appropriate to the occasion were delivered, whilst in she evening the town buildings were specially illuminated, and dis|fla£s made* t »» mm -II ITU

NEW PLYMOUTH.

credit to the town and to tHose who had charge of the arrangements. The route followed was from St. Aubyu Street via Queen Street to Devon Street, thence right through town to Eliot Street, and via the latter to Courtenay Street and back t# Liardet Street, up' to the Park. There were large crowds "of spectators all along the route, and demonstrations *of enthusiasm ' wera evoked as various sections of tl>.e procession, and displays made appealed to the watchers. AT PUKEKURA PARK, The scene on arriving at the Parkwas a memorable one. The terraces were thronged with spectators, while on the playing arena, were marshalled the Bands, veterans, returned soldiers, High School Cadets, Frontiersmen, Senior Cadets, etc. The competition cars, which were the only cars allowed in the grounds, were marshalled towards the side for judging purposes. Several selections were played by the Citizens' Band and the Salvation Army Band alternately, prior to the speech making, v,-hi'i; took place from a platform at the southern end of the ground. The weather throughout the procession was kind, but at the conclusion of the ceremonial a li~ht showed fell.

The official celebrations on Peace Day 'commenced with the procession to Pukekura Park. The committee in charge of this part of the programme laid their plans well, and everything passed off without a hitch. The various sections mere assembled at previously notified places so that at a given sign from ■the Marshal (Mr. J. H. Fowler), the Vhole of the units could be linked up bud proceed in order without any uncertainty. Those to whom the work of

assembling the various sections were delegates carried out their duties well, jind the whole of the arrangements Worked smoothly. Punctually to time the procession ynoved off, headed by a full muster of the members of the Citizens' Band, for whom the way was cleared by two mounted constables. The place of honr was given to the members of the local branch of the New Zealand Veterans'

{Association, of whom about 30 gathered, end they were accommodated in two ■jnotor buses. Next to them came the

ymmg veterans of the late war, about • 120 strong. Their passing was tbe signal for hearty cheering at several places along the route, and their presence in the fine must have stirred the hearts ct #ll with an. unquenchable pride in the spirit and courage of the young wen of our land. Doubtless also the sight of them sjnt longings surging through the hearts of many for the speedy return of loved ones who have Hot yet reached home, as it also must have opeifed again the wound in other feearts caused by the remembrance of ifaoae for whose return friends and loved ones will look in vain. But those regrets were no doubt lessened by the knowledge that by the sacrifices made • was peace purchased, and that '"the path of duty?' had been "the road to , glory."' jt ■Following the soldiers came the civic fepresentatives of the Borough, inelud- . tag the Mayor and Councillors in three • motor cars. Next to tli" "City Fathers" Were representatives of the Mothers of Hie Empire, marching bravely, to show to the cpmnmnit" with what pride of ' fceart they had given worthy sons in a uoble cause. Next came the representatives of the Patriotic organisations, whose work did go much to help the bovs at the front to persevere in the fight for freedom and the peace which was being celebrated, and who are still helping to kwke the taste of repatriation of disrfnrged soldiers as easy and complete as possible. Of these there were the Women's National Reserve, Victoria Leagyc, tho Women's Patriotic Society, And the General Patriotic Committee, (CMh occupying several motor cars. A ear load of T>ed Cross work' was followed hy two cars of nurses from ffc- local hospital, driven ''y Walker and Leatham. Ja succession to tho war-worker 3 lewko the linos of the country's defence tt represented by the Legion of ftotltiersmen, of whom there wto S2 present, and a fine body o! about 250 Bays' Hish School Cadets, wlio showed tbe accustomed evidence of their aiafcipline. and whose marching was a distinct feature of thg procession, the sub- ' Sect of much favorable comment, following a small troop of Senior Cadets were a snlendid group of about oO Boy Bcouts, who drew a small hand-cart on which a tent was erected, and over it floated a. string of small flags signalling . the immortal message of Lord Nelson at Trafalgar: "England expects every man to do his duty." Next in order came a contingent of , Rirls from the High School, about 60 in inrmber. who were in turn followed by -tihildren from the local State primary schools and the Convent school, jmniber--sng about 400 all ibid. Their banners and flags floated bravely in the breeze, 1 iitm? their presence betokened the hope of the future in which, the fruits of the war may be more fully appreciated und enjoyed lhan is passible at present. The Salvation Army Band led tbe succeeding units o fthe -procession, which consisted of a wierd-looking armored car with the ominous-looking muzzle of a gnn protruding from its fore part, and bearing the "inscription "After four years of service on the Western front,' 'md this was followed by some two dozen or ao privately-owned motor cars, wholb ownerß had been to a great deal of pains to have them suitably decorated for so great an occasion. A conspicuous car in this section was that of the Plunket Society, which, while carrying an abundant supply of patriotic colors displayed also its signal warning, now of more potent meaning than ever, "Save The Babies." Many of the cars had their entire framework enwrapped In red, white and blue ribbons and flags, (Bid others were also gaily garlanded

DECOBATIONS AND ILLUMINATIONS While there were no very striking or original designs in the peace decorations, the flying of flags and bunting was general. Many of the business places were bedecked with small flags, and some of the shops made special window decorations, the colors of the Allies' being intermixed, though, of course, the red, white and blue predominated. The scant share in this form of celebra.tion taken by the Government was the subject of considerable comment. The only display, beyond the flying of flogs, made by the Government offices consisted in exhibiting a window-bill bearing representations of ,the flags of the Allies—"flags that stand for liberty and freedom." Among the special displays made was that of Messrs J; and J. Auld, whose island window was attractively decorated and contained photographs of some of the prominent war leaders, whilst Mr. Wright also had a fine window display. Mr. R. J. Deare also gave up his small island window ,to a large photograph ot- the British Prime Minister, surrounded with patriotic colors. Mr. C. Carter had a striking window .display of seasonable goods, which were given quite an appropriate dressing of national colors. The H.B. shop and Messrs S. B. White and Son were amongst those who went ,to , some trouble to give a popular touch to their window displays, while the A MP Society's main doorway and windows Were also gay with flags and greenery. Flags were hung out from many windows and waved joyously in .the breeze over the heads of the passers-by. The illuminations at night made the town look gay, and no doubt attracted many people out in the streets, which were thronged for several hours. The electric light department of the borough j Tiad festooned the streets with colored lights, stretching across Devon Street, from each pair of tramway poles, from j the Post Office to Liardet Street, the ! effect being very pleasing, particularly When viewed from the top of the rise at either end of that section of the street. Colored lights were exhibited in several places, but some special displays are worthy of notice. Standing high i-p above everything else and shedding quite a bright light around the locality was 1 a large crown surmounting the People's | Pic.ture Pal&ec. Messrs Smart Bros, had erected a large "Peace" sign over the footpath in front of their premises, which could be plainly seen from Devon Stmt. Currie Street was* one of the most brilliantly lighted portions of the town. Both newspaper offices were richly festooned with colored lights. A large naval ensign, bearing the words "Victory" and "Peace" was hung above the Daily Xew.s main doorway., the lighting scheme being enhanced by the white stone background and the French renaissance .type of architecture. Several flags were hung from the Herald windows' which had also been decorated with colored paper, and with the lights behind them gave a very pleasing effect. A string of lights was also hung round the vcnandah of Mr. Newton King's implement showroom. The Central Fire Brigade Station was specially illuminated. The most striking design amongst the lighting displays was that of a big Union Jack on the front of the Red Post Furnishing Company's shop. There was a strange' absence of pictures of Royalty among ,the decorations, and this fact made the more conspicuous the large colored portrait of the King exhibited in the window of Bellringer Bros-' shop.

with greenery, the effect being very pleasing to spectators? One other striking feature of the section was a caT dritie out in (he Belgian. eolors in. which abo the occupants were dressed in the national colors of the gallant little en'">trv that saved Europe. : .v The Central Fire Brigade followed frith their two engines, with siren and honterii and goings sounding, and a few eqnesirifin figures, amiJngst whom a gor- . jrpnuslv-clad Foresjer appeared con" spinous. completed the procession. ... Although there was not sneh a * ''.enet'iv followins an on the occasion of a-. Ihe armistice celebrations, and the profusion was entirely void of tableaux . j?spl»vs, yet considering all the cjrciim■utanfps of the time since the fiditing .»nd tumult ceased, and also the weather wnaitJoM, the wliole display was a

FIREWORKS DISPLAY. The torchlight procession and fireworks display made by the Fire Brigade on Saturday night attracted a large crowd. The band, mounted on a large motor lorry, preceded members of the brigade, who carried varied colored fuse torches and flashlights, which produced a brilliant sight. A number of private motor cats followed, and the procession traversed Devon Street several times, the firing of an occasional rocket adding interest to the display. The firing of crackers and other diminutive explosives was, of course, general, and the hilarity of the evening proceedings were accepted by more sober spirits with the utmos.t good heartedness. The climax was reached when, at 8.15, the lighting of the big bonfire on the summit of .the MI at JVes.tem Park

was signalised by the discharge of a big sky rocket. The fire lighted up the landscape for a considerable distance. There .was a large crowd on the hill, and all the vantage points abqut town were sought out in order to secure a view of the final scene in the day's festivities. A large ■number of big rockets were discharged during the hour in which the Are burned furiously. When the rockets had been exhausted and the fire began to die down the crowd dispersed, and for the most part the people returned to their homes at a reasonably early hour. JUDGING OF THE EXHIBITS. Considerable interest wag manifested in the various competitions, and in some of the classes there Was keen competition, entries being numerous The judges (Messrs. J. S. Fox and J. Paton), had a difficult task in adjudicating. Thti awards were as follows:

turn? It seemed to him that, the condition was that we as a people and an Empire had got to work to keep what what been given us. Though Germany was beaten she might. say with some justification that she was beaten by her Allied' weakness. Britain was fortunate in having strong Allies. Germany'* Allies were practically a millstone round her neck. It was well to remember that in this life one's friends to-day were often one's enemies to-morrow. ' Now that this peace was signed thc-y must anticipate a commercial war, in which they would t,e faced by four great nations —Germany, Japan, France and Italy, and the people must be prepared to work filled with energy, industry and enthusiasm, and so realise to the fullest the fruits of the victory. The people of this great Empire must make up their minds to work lest they lose what they bad gained. The gospel of the people and the nation should ho the gospel of work, and all men, women, and children must make up their minds to do what they could with all their might, and in so doing increase their self-respect, advance themselves in life and carry down this great Empire, which our forefathers made for us. (Applause). Cheers were then given for v,he King, the hoys who had fought, the Mayor, and Mr. Smith, and the ceremonial portion caqip to a close.

Exhibit, emblematic of peace: R. Gray 1, F. Shrimpton (Plunket Nurse). Featuring Allied Forces: New Plymouth Scouts 1, wlio donated thejr prize of £1 Is to Mrs Burgess' Hostel Featuring women's work in. connection with the war: Mrs. (Dr.) Walker (Red Cross) 1. At the wish of Mr. Kibby, who decorated the car, it was decided to dctiatc the £1 Is prize to the soldiers in hospital. Exhibit advertising trade or business: Derby and Co. 1. Most original turn-out, Horse or motor: Derby and Co. 1, M. Montague 2. Best decorated private motor car: Mrs. List 1, Mrs. J. Auld 2, Mrs. Crocker 3.

CHILDREN'S DAY. THE MOTOR PROCESSION. The children are eagerly looking forward to the motor ride which is being arranged for their benefit to-day, and, given fine weather, they should have an outing which will long linger in their memory. Cars have been freely promised, but still the committee can do with more, as four or five small country schools close to New Plymouth wish to participate in the procession and have asked to be helped with cars. So far, the organiser has been unable to promise these cars, but in anticipation of cars being available, four or live groups of little children will be held in touch by telephone until 9.15 am. One case in poin.t, Lower Mangorei, with 14 children, has applied for assistance, and if a ear is forthcoming these will be taken. Anyone, therefore, who has not already promised should send their cars along to Mr. Day at the Central Station.

Original fancy dress or poster costume: Milton May (baker) 1, T, Kendall (Red Cross nurse) 2. E. Lamcrton (Wild West) 3, D. McKay (Red Cross nprsnl 4 In this section, R. Gaylard was awarded a special prize. THE SPEECHES. Mr. C. H. Burgess, M.B.TC,, Mayor, who was the first speaker, said that just on five years ago a few words were flashed over the cable to say that Great Britain had declared war on Germany—very simple words, but words which heralded a war the like of which Jiad never before been dreamed of. For nearly live years, the fortunes of war ebbed and flawed until they almost spared of having the victory. They had assembled that day to celebrate the proclamation which said that the war was, over and that peace had been de dared, and with what joy they had hailed the words they had waited so long for, 'words that they wanted to repeat again and again so as to make sure they were not dreaming. They had been singing in the procession that it was a long way to Tipperary, and so it was, but they had got there at I last. He expressed his pleasure at ' seeing such a large gathering present, and lie felt sure that the> were not there for the purpose of attending a show or pageant, but because they thought they ought to be there to celebrate peace, as was being done in every part of the Empire. They had come there to celebrate an honorable peace, to honor the King, to show their loyalty to the Empire, and to pay a tribute to those of their kindred. Both in NewZealand and over the seas, also of the Allies, toy whose sacrifice they were able to be there that day. It was not a day of words, he said, but a riav for demonstration, which they felt "they should enjoy together in the fervent hope and prayer that never in their time, or their children's, would the nation ever have to set aside a day for a similar purpose. He had, he" concluded, been talking war for over four years, and he felt that this was not a day when he should say anything, but it was a day on which to feel everything. (Applause). . He then read, by request of the Minister. the Proclamation of Peace, and asked all to join in the National Anthem, which was heartily rendered, the band leading. In conclusion. Mr Burgess expressed pleasure at seeing so many returned soldiers and veterans present. Mr. S. G. Smith, M.P., said that he felt it a great privilege as member oi the district to say a few words on such a great and historic occasion. They, were there that day to celebrate the signing of the Peace Treaty, and they had the benefit of that peace a? frco people, and they should see that thev were prepared to reap to the full the benefits of that peace. They had as sembled for the purpose of rejoicing, but in the midst of their rejoicing they should not forget the 17,000 men who would never come back. These men they should keep in instant remembrance. Indeed, the key note of the future should he a constant remembrance of those who gave their all that their fellows might be freed from the menace of a brutal, callous, and cruej enemy. They remembered to-day the wonderful work achieved by New Zealand in connection with the great war. a record of which New Zealand had every reason to be proud, when they considered that from a population oi less than a million and a quarter. New Zealand sent forth an army that went into battle and made a name and famo for their country that would ring down with honor throughout the ages He hoped that in the future, whatever opinions they held in other matters, they would work willingly and unitediy for the purpose of shoeing to the soldiers when they were thanking that day that their thanks were not merely lip service, but that they really did "Appreciate their wonderful actions. (Applause). The Empire had emerged from the conflict infinitely mightier than ever, but with added responsibility, and here in this, the be3t tpot, in the Empire they also had to shoulder their share of the responsibilty in order to ensure that the magnitude of the sacrifice made to win freedom was not lost. He believed that this country, which had not really felt the horrors of war, would get back to normal quicker than any other part and he believed the people, with ti\c help of the soldiers, would assist their leaders to this end. In conclusion, he suggested that if they could get into the back of their minds the true significance of what the victory means. They could look forward to the future of the country with confidence. If the war had been lost there wouH have been no celebrations. He congratulated the soldiers who were with them that day, and thanked them for what they had done, adding that it would be his endeavor to show that his thanks were not mere lip service. 'Applause). [Lieut-Colonel Weston, who wiss accorded a warm reception, said that the thought that impressed itsf.lf on him Was that they might consider themselves as treated by the fates extraordinary kindly, when the consequences of defeat would have been so awful. Their own people had made sacrifices of flesh and blood, and as a result they stood there that day celebrating no incomplete peace, but a complete victory. Now, he asked, bad not the Gods given .this great victory with some condition attached, a condition that we musfc something in re«'

Additional cars have been promised by Messrs C. W. Reube and A. R. Knight, of Westown.

The arrangements for the day are as follows:

Cars not posted to any particular school will assemble at the Fire Brigade Station at 0.15 a.m.

Cars assemble at the respective schools at 9.30 am.

The first section of the proeession leaves at !)./.) a.m., headed by the Salvation Army Band, while the latter portion, headed by the Citizens' Band, will leave the Red House corner at 10 a.m., picking up other sections at Eliot Street, Fitzroy, Egmont Road, and Bell Block. On returning from Inglewood, the cars will bo grouped in Eliot. Street for the purpose of being photographed. The children bringing their lunches will be taken direct to the Coronation Hall and provided with cocoa. At 1.45 p.m. the children will be reassembled and will proceed to ,the pictures.

THE PIERROT REFORM. (Late on Friday afternoon the chairman of the Pierrots received a telegram from the Under-Secretaiy for Internal Affairs stating that the Minister desired that no raffles be conducted on Peace Day. The Minister expressed his entire sympathy with the object, and his willingness to grant permission for the raffles on any other day. In deference to the Minister's wish, the Pier rots deci' ln d not to conduct their usual raffle campaign, although it meant the upsetting of all their arrangements. It was decided to make the deferred effort next Saturday, 26th. inst. Although ihc ma.in source of revenue was deleted the Pierrots went on with an abbreviated programme, including the distribution of the surprise packets, tickets lor which were sold some time ago. A number of valuable prizes were "discovered" in the packets,'and many heads of families were gratified to find substantial orders for groceries, etc., included in the packets, which went far towards solving, _ for the coming week at least, the problem of the cost of living. One popular Pierrot departure on Saturday was "the catering for the Wants of the hungry visitors. A pie anrl hot potato stall was opened, at which about 1000 freshly made pies (all that were nrocurablej were disposed of. . The takings for the day were nearly £l4O Which, considering 110 special effort was made, must be c-fisidered very satisfactory. Many of the articles to be raffled next Saturday arc now on view in shop"windows, and, including as they do some Very valuable articles of jewellery and household necessaries, ensure that the ponr-lnHinn- stunt next Saturday will be Well patronised. Farmers and country committees .who have promised stock and nrnduce for this effort are asked to eend their donations to town dnrn n 1 the Weelk to the care of Mr. C. Fairbrother, or Mr. L. B. Webster, who will arrange Fw satisfactory disposal in the Pierrots interests.

STRATFORD.

| A MAGNIFICENT SPECTACLE. | TOWNSMEN RISE TO THE I OCCASION. (From Our Own Correspondent.) With the enthusiasm, unity, and good organisation shown in the preparations, the peace celebrations at S,tratford could not have been a failure. The Mayor (Mr. W. J. McMillan) and the Borough Council lost no time when the day of the celebrations was announced, and the lead they gave was quickly followed by the Entailers' Association and practically every organisation in the town which was in a position to assist The shopkeepers, more anxious that there should be a good general display than that attention should be directed to their windows, joined in meeting the of eight electrically illuminated (streamers across the street, which were eo placed that Broadway in the evening Was flooded with brilliant light from powerful red, white, blue, and green bulbs.' At the bridge over the Patea River .they erected, at their own expense also, a beautiful arch, which was decorated with ferns and native shrubs and treeß. This arch was built by Mr. McK. Morison and Mr. Davey, and was also illuminated with electric lights, A most important par.t of the street decorations was a huge arch built in front of the Post Office by the Borough Council. This'

work was done under the supervision of Mr. W. Petiigrew, of Fairbank's nursery. In the centre of the arch was a huge crown and the letters' 6.R. were on the pillars opposite. Native ferns over neat lattice work and placed along the footpath on either side, as though in their natural clement, made the arch a very beautiful piece of work. The colored electric lights, of which the crown was formed, were of great candle power, and the letters G.R. wero of '250 candle power each. Altogether, 10 kilowa.tts of electric power was used in illuminating the streets, and so as to get the best effect all consumers. were asked to shut off their power at night.

The whole of ,the electrical work was undertaken by Mr. E. F. Hollands, borough electrical engineer, and his stall'. The shopkeepers, who had the assistance of the professions in their part of the street illuminations and decorations, did a great ileal individually, and some novel and highly appropriate ideas were worked out in shop windows. Representations of peace, exhibitions of war trophies, rolls of honor, symbols of Britain's power and unity were to be seen. The national colors were r "rvwhere and the smallest tradesman contributed something towards the general effect. The morning broke dull and unpromising. A cold, damp fog enveloped the town, but as ,thc day advanced the fog disappeared, and by 12.30 the sun was shining. The afternoon was all that could be desired, and nothing was wanting to make the celebrations a complete .success. THE PROCESSION. At about noon .the country people began to arrive in town, and within an hour the streets were thronged. The well marshalled procession was a magnificent spectacle. From a point near the Courthouse it marched along Broadway, Pembroke lioad, Miranda, Regan, Fenton, and Juliet Streets, returning to Broadway and drawing up in front of the Post Office.

The procession was led by Stall Scrgt.Major Chapman. Then came the Stratford Brass Band, the returned soldiers, cadets, boy scouts, tableaux of peace iind Britannia, the Mayor (Mr. W. J. McMillan), and Borough Councillors, chairman of the County Council (Mr. Walter), and Cr. Hancock, president of the War Relief Association (Mr. Kirkwood), Fire Brigade, Druids'. Lodge, Red Cross ambulance, Salvation Army Band, decorated ears, chairman of the Education Board (Mr. Masters), deeorated cars representing Peace, Belgium, France, Japan, Servia, Ireland and Snotland, Pierrotts and school children. Included in the procession were a number of vehicles representing local industries and businesses. Without taking the decorated cars and other vehicles in the order of merit, some which attracted particular attention may be mentioned. Mr C. Meuli's car was decorated to represent New Zealand in red, white, and blue colors, the effect being improved with pprigs of wattle suggestive of spring. On top was the model of an aeroplane. Mr. New.ton King's business was represented by a Ridd milking machine on a motor lorric, from which was also displayed a simple peace banner. Mr. Evans, furniture dealer, had contrived ft splendid imitation of a tank. One car was done up in plaid and tartan and was used by Mr. L. G. Kineross and the Scottish Pipe Band. The Japanese car, decorated by Mrs. Arthur Richmond, of Midhirs.t, was greatly admired. The chrysanthemums, lilies, and lanterns gave it a wealth of color. The ladies in the car wero ail dressed in Japanese style. Leading features in the procession were the tableaux' of "Peace" and "Britannia," which were the work of the Women's National Reserve. Misses Vida Cameron represented "Peace," and had with her Misses B. Thompson, Stella Hunter, Moana Thompson, and Maida Norcross. All were dressed in white, and Miss Cameron had, in the dove on her outstretched hand and the laurels she wore, the emblems of both peace and victory. Miss C. Ford, surrounded by a bevy of young ladies, made an excellent Britannia- For the. Fire Brigade's display much of the credit must be given to Mrs. Moon. It consisted chiefly of a Maori whare with a picaninny (Miss Judd) inside and a representation of peace, for which purpose the reel was swathed in white. A little girl, the daughter of Constable Tizard, looked the personification ol' eace.

Other vehicles which took part represented the following:— Servia (Mr. J. Davis), Red Cross (Mr. Newton King), Peace (Mr. A. J. Davey), Belgium (Mr. C. B. Walsh), France (Mr. W- H. Kellv), Ireland (Mrs. Hewitt), Red Cross (Mr. H. Pavnter), Peace (Mrs. Farrell, Midhirst), Red Cross Ambulance (Central Co-operative Store), Belgium (Miss Allen), Red Cross ambulance van (Mr. C. E. Fowler). The pony gig decorated as Belgium by Miss Allen showed some pretty and original work. The Boy Scouts, who numbered 22, had with them a baggage or ambulance cart, and were under the charge of Scoutmaster Alger. The i procession was not v without' its amusing side, and a number dressed in costumes which caused a good deal of merriment.

Mr. Dan Malone was marshal, and wo* assisted by Mr. Ashton and a number of others.

Before 2.30 the procession formed up in a square in front of the Post Office, preference being given to the schoolchildren and returned soldiers in. allocating places, and, .though it was intended to have the speeches at three o'clock, everything had gone so smoothly that all was in readiness by 2.30. Among those on the platform were: Captain Pease, M.C., and Licu.ts. Adlam, Young, Everiss (2), Marchant, and Taylor. The town clerk (Mr. Skoglnnd) read the peace proclamation, after which the band icd the singing of the National Anthem.

THE SPEECHES. Ma'jor Mine, M.P., who was first called upon by the Mayor to speak, said the proclamation which liotl just been read would be received with rejoicing in every part of the Empire. They rejoiced that peace reigned once more over the earth. They had realised what war meant and they hoped that never again would they be called upon to pass through such trying times. His mind went back to the time when, wi,th other soldiers, he had sung "It's a Long Way to Tipporary" and when those at home had sung "Keep the Home Fires Burning," and he thought of those who had died since then in the fight for liberty. They rejoiced that the lives of these men were not given in vain. They had died that we might continue .to enjoy the fruits of an Empire we luul enjoyed for so many years. We, all knew what freedom m6ant, and the freedom they had fought' for we were going to enjoy to the full, Major Hine then spoke of the duties which each had iio\v ,to perform to tho other. No man could live unto himself, and each must recognise his duty to the community. Ho congratulated Stratford upon the splendid effort that had been made and for which they weTo worthily repaid by the enthusiasm and '

' the large crowd. He was particularly pleased to see .the children present. Xb» day and! the grand pageants of peace Would long live in their memories, and in years to come they would look back Upon the glorious, sunny day when peace was declared. They would realise when they grew older what had been done for dhem. He ljoped they would live up to the standard set by their brothers, and Bisters- Those who had waited at home had had the worst part of the job. - They hover knew when a telegram would come or what news it would bring, but they had passed .through those trying times heroically, and just as they looked to God in the dark days for succor they Wanted still to know and understand , that He was with them. Chaplain Howard said .that in the war there Jbad been three and a half million British casualties, 'and they must not, in their rejoicing forget the fallen—the • men by whom they moved and breathed tod had ,their being. It was a happy thought that prompted tljose who placed Wreaths on the photographs in the Couni cil Chambers of those soldiers who had fallen. Tl» day was one for great rejoicing. Though he had not changed in spirit one iota, the enemy had been fceaten. If, the speaker continued, they BMgut* the fallen they would forget the . foundations of their existence. No leas than fourteen of their men had tecefowd from the King the supreme distinction for valor on the field of battle, v Which spoke well for New Zealand. Ho hoped that thoughts of the fallen would ' have a steadying influence on the celehcations here and in other places and Sthafc there would be no drunken orgies , -«r scenes of degradation to look back Upon. Looking round, he felt that what they wanted was a sense of responsibility. All sorts of needs were cropping np. If things happened which should not happen they must see that the responsibility ' was placed on the right heads. The war had been a camouflage, but they -wanted .that sort of thing . swept away. If there were any sores *>n the body politic they wanted those " tesponsible to come out in the open and jbe judged by the enlightened conscience of public opinion. ; Mr- Walter (chairman of the Stratford County Council), after paying a tribute to the soldiers and expressing sympathy , Hvith the bereaved, said they were all Very thankful that the war was over and , that to-day* the British Empire stood higher than ever. The good old flag ■ was on top, and we were going to keep it there. - He wished, on behalf of the county, to thank the returned soldiers 'for their splendid services. The Government, he said, should do its very best for these men. This had been called ''God's Country," but what would have happened ,to it if it had not been for! r . soldiers? Mr. Walter referred to the labor troubles and said he was not •surprised at the laboring man being dissatisfied. Be had never been satisfied .* himielf yet, and it was only in the nature of things that man should strive after something better, but Labor must Hot 101 l industry, and must help them to compete with o.ther countries. ■ ■ The Mayor spoke of the many reasons existing for this joyful celebration of a ■ peace which had come after five years-, Jnsfraa they had hoped it would come—- ■ founded ion justice and dictated by the Allies.' It had been said that'they should not; meet in a spirit of rejoicing, but if It was only because the fallen heroes had not died in vain and the bully of y nations had been shown that might was Hot right they should rejoice. (Applause.) i When they looked back over flll the .vicissitudes of the war was it * not right that they should rejoice? Mr. :■■■■■ McMillan then reviewed some of the - principal etents in the war, giving special . attention to the part New Zealanders , had t&ken. He repeated the eulogies on New Zealand soldiers delivered by Qeh,'eral Hamilton and others in high comtnand. It Was a noticeable fact that during the whole war only. 371 New Zealandera were taken prisoners, while, ■ In one advance alone, they had captured 6000 of the enemy. He urged the chil- : dren to emulate their brothers and sistas-

_At the, call of .the Mayor, cheers were Men given for the Allied armies and for tlw returned soldiers.- • The addresses were followed by a concert given from the same platform bv fke Pierrots.

INCLEWOOD. A RED-LETTER DAY. (From Our Own Correspondent.) . The residents of Inglewood and surrounding districts fittingly celebrated 4«»ee to-day, the proceedings being universally voted a huge success. Bunting of all descriptions was freely displayed #nd the old New Zealand Ensign, which shows signs of hard wear, flew majestically from the Post Office, while the. union' Jack floated Over the Inglewoott Botel' and school. Several of the business premises, were suitably decorated ftlt the-'Oecaeion on Friday evenin?, awl it was apparent that a "large number •T visitors Were in town, shopkeepers doing good business.' Firewor&a .were also much In evidence, "

. Saturday was a red letter day, and residents can feel proud of t&eir part ih celebrating this glorious day on which peace and gladness reigned. The illinrrjnationa, as seen from tlie top , Gamlin's building, reßected great credit on the municipal electrical staff, - there being eight lines -of red, wlite, and electric lamps s.trupg across the, •treetg and presenting an animated spectacle The morning broke with a heavv - fop enveloping the, town, which, however liftfed a_ few hours la.tcr.. The streets wtfre thickly thronged, the hotels fceing dosed from 11.30 to 12JJ0, the state P T fg f,,(1 day ofc At 10.30 th> fecal land, under the baton of Mr. T. Wilson, bteyed several items Mar the Ing&wood . Hotel, and a IrVtJp later gave an excellent at 'the tend rotunda till -'P'* When tJie official t-cremony took. (P'w, there were about 300 peop-a ia ■ 'ftltftjdnnce •

■riP n J? a $ 0 ' r - .'*%•;s> Sutherland) md w» Ividsts (Ppaicfcnnatioii, also the toTprjimcitf's iwti/Jcation, in whvtfc the pteop's wcrfe, reqttjsted to susp«*sf all Timotionii c.te, frinn twelve won until pajt <;hat hour, roaleß standhi memory th«> brave > m 'wfwtten' who" had sacrificed their Sn the cau?e of taedom, liberty, 1 His 'WetrJiijv explained why it '"MI g*thpjwl togetnrr and . w|B nweptedness of thfe nrcseat and comseneifation t© ihnee'wbo lad iought! dJediurtl the war to such a I issue,; JSjifa it not been • far "firrtain and her alGes frfa been in ,the proud ,to-day. The' greatest broken and

er eulogised the magnificent work that had been accomplished by some who stayed at home, especially the ladies who bad worked indefatigably to secure and provide comforts for the lads on active service, and the noble work the boys had accomplished at the front. The tribute ,to the noble dead then followed.

At 1.30 the procession started \rora the Scout Hall, headed by the band in a motor 'bus. A contingent of 38 returned soldiers in uniform followed; then came the cadets and scouts with the various ensigns under a guard of honor, followed by a fine muster of the various friendly societies. Then came the Fire Brigade, looking spick and span in their uniforms, and an artistically decorated reel which earned high praise. The school children, in their turn, made a fine display, bunting being freely displayed on their ranks, while cycles, tricycles, and fancy costumes added to the scene, Which was finished off as the motor cars came up in the rear. The procession wended its way to the recreation ground, where a programme of music was rendered by the band ,to a large audience. The afternoon was spoiled somewhat by a few light showers of rain and dampness underfoot. However, a very enjoyable time was spent. A fancy dress v. returned soldiers football match caused considerable amusement, and resulted in i, draw, both teams scoring .three points. A\ tug-o'-war competition also caused much amusement, the returned men securing a win.

Putting the shot drew sixteen competitors, B. P. Price, a returned soldier, registering 40ft. 2in. and E. Taylor 33ft. sin.

The potato race attracted oiUoolcers, for many of the competitors had earned distinction in .the various sporting arenas. Messrs H. L. Cutfield and Chris Hammerton fought out a great finish, the former bringing back his five potatoes to advantage. This event looked like a walk over for an ex-Old Gold representative, but someone removed his last potato and threw him out of action. The blindfold boxing tourney only attracted two scout representatives, and, after a good tussle, the judges declared it a draw. The winners of .the potato race kindly donated their prizes to the winners of this event.

The pillow fight on a spar caused great merriment. Eight pairs sat the spar, and feats of all descriptions weTe performed by competitors between the spar and the ground. After a ding-dong tussle, H. Julian vanquished Brittian for the 1 final. Mr. Eager donated a special prize for this event, and another go for an extra prize donated by the Mayor was won by the same man, who defeated R. Brown.

The proceedings were brought to a conclusion by Mr. Humphrey announcing that the Kaiser would Be bnrned at Mr. Franklyn's farm on Windsor Koad, and that a monster torchlight procession would lead the way to the burning of the effigy. In the evening the youhg ladies of the town provided a free social, and the Druids' Hall was packed with pleasure seekers. The ladies provided the refreshments and the music was supplied by various ladies and gentlemen present, his Worship the Mayor providing the hall fee. Dancing was indulged in up till midnight, and the evening was voted a very pleasurable one. The thanks of the [residents of the town and country are due to the ladies for their effort. | To-day (Monday) will be devoted to entertaining the children. A comprehensive programme has been arranged, and efforts will be. made to ensure that Children's Day will be a notable day. In the evening ,the gentlemen of the town will entertain the ladies at a social to ■ be held in the Druids' Hall.