SOUTH AFRICA.

Wairarapa Age, Volume XXXII, Issue 10133, 2 November 1910, Page 5

SOUTH AFRICA.

ARRIVAL OF DUKE OF LiONNAUGHT.

A MAG NIFICE DENT PaGFANT.

Received November 1, 9.20 a.m

CAPETOWN, October 31. In his speech of wHcome at the City Hall, the Mayor eaid the Duke of Connaught's advent proclaimed "the birth of a new era foretold by our greatest statesmen." It had been striven for by the truest patriot*, and, possiuly by the splendid the Union would enable South Africa to take her place amongst the first of the world's centres of industry.

Nvrnarous addresses were pre sen ted to the Duke.

His Royal Highness, in Tising to respond, received an immense ovation. He thanked those present on behalf of King George for their sentiments of loyalty and devotion, and assured the many thousands of the King's subjects—Europeans, Asiatics, and African—of His Majesty's interest in their welfare.

The Governor-General proceeded to the Senate House, where, in the presence of members cf both Houses of Parliament the Royal Commission appointing the Duke of Con naught to open the first Parliament was read in English and Dutch. Lord Gladstone then announced that the Cuke of Connaught would on Friday deliver a me.sage from the King to Parliament. Members were then sworn in, and Parliament adjourned till to morrow. /or the pageant in the afternoon there was again glorious weather and a crowded attendance, Saturday's magnificent success was repeated To-day's episodes depicted various noteworthy stirring > incidents from 1813 to 1554, including the realistic defence of a laager against a Kaffir attack. Finally there was a most effective allegorical representation, indicative of the evolution of South Africa, all the performers participating in the culminating scene, in which groups representing the four provinces of the u-iion met. The entire body of performers then sang the Natiousl Anthem and the Te Deuin. The newspapers are most cordial in their welcome, referring especi • ally to the CukeYdistinguished military career and viiit to South Africa a few years ago. Ihc-y emphasise the significance of the presence of a member of the Royal Family at the Union celebrations, and mention t'-.e occasion as indicating King George's sympathy with the hopes attending the birth of the new nation. Reuter's Agency states that the entire centre of Capetown is magnificently illuminated. All the principal building are outlined with strings of vari-coloured light?, entwined in garlands spanning the main thoroughfare?.

The Oak Avenue has a fairy-like effect against the majestic rock back ground of Tabie Mountain.

Dense crowds are parading to and fro.

It is a magnificent sight, unparalleled in Africa.