RE-UNION OF ALL BLACKS.

Waikato Times, Volume 121, Issue 20265, 6 August 1937, Page 8

RE-UNION OF ALL BLACKS.

RECEPTION TO SPRINGBOKS. TRIBUTE TO GENERAL HERTZOG. (By Telegraph.— Press Association.) . WELLINGTON, Friday. Representatives of every Rugby football team which has represented New Zealand were present at a Government reception at'Parliament House this morning to the touring South African Rugby footballers. The 400 guests included Cabinet Ministers, members of both Houses, heads of Government departments, representatives of the law, public servioes, military, naval and air forces, the New Zealand selectors and various sports bodies. The Prime Minister, the Right Hon. M. J. Savage, prefaced his address at the reception by describing General Hertzog, Prime Minister of South Africa, whom he met at the Imperial Conference, as one of the most lovable of men. They had disagreed about many things but they had established a friendship that would last while life lasted. The visit of the Springboks would similarly cement friendships. The Prime Minister recalled that Mr P. W. Day, the tourists’ manager, had been the guide, philosopher and friend of the New Zealand Army team in 1919 and mentioned that P. J. Nel had represented his province 65 times. In conclusion, Mr Savage said the present gathering was the greatest reunion of All Blacks New Zealand had ever had, among former All Blacks present being Harry Roberts, who went to Australia with tlie 1884 team. Mr Day, replying, thanked Mr Savage for the cordial welcome and kind references to General Hertzog. Mr Nel endorsed Mr Day's remarks.