SIR JOSEPH WARD.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 9609, 1 October 1909, Page 5

SIR JOSEPH WARD.

BKCEPTION AT AUCKLAND. By Telegraph—Press Association. AUCKLAND, September 30. Sir Joseph Ward, La'dy Ward and party arrived from Suva by H.M.S. Challenger about ten a.m. to-day. Light rain fell during the forenoon, but it cleared off before midday, and the reception took place in fine weather. The Prime Minister landed from the warship at three o'clock, and 3 procession was formed from the wharf to Albert Park. The shipping and city was decorated with bunting. At Albert Park several thousands of people had assembled. Sir JoaeDh Ward was welcomed by the Mayor, and presented with a handsome illuminated address. Sir Joseph, who was received with loud applause, expressed pleasure at the excellent reception. In referring to what had takefi place at the Defence Conference he said that he had not swerved one iota from the principle laid down in the Dreadnought offer, viz., that New Zealand should attach herself emphatically to the British Navy as a part and not as a section of it. He spoke of the excellent object lesson which the Dreadnought offer had afforded to the Old Country. The gathering concluded with cheers for Sir Joseph and Lady Ward. The Prime Minister and other Ministers will leave for Wellington to-morrow night.