THE PREMIER IN THE NORTH.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2134, 7 March 1908, Page 3

THE PREMIER IN THE NORTH.

AN UNPLEASANT JOURNEY.

Tress Association. AUCKLAND, March (>. On the way from Waipu to Alaunca.toroto the Premier, Lady VWu>, and party, in a motor-car cntounterod a thunderstorm. the 1> which should have heeu accomplished in 45 minutes, occupied I s homs. 1H ■road was so greasy that tho wheels would not grip, and it was soon a oaso of all hands out and push. U( casionally tho car skidded perilous!.' near the edgo of a ravine. 'I he parte was, however, a hearty one. Hie 1 loan lor ehoorily sang snatches ol songs, and Lady Ward seemed to thoroughly enjoy the novel experience. Nearing Wellsford, darkness hiving set m and the road being had for the last 10 miles, slow progress was made. There was frequent dismounting to keep the car moving. In one very soft spot the car wheels sank, and seemed to the warty to have settled for the night, but- the car was eventually extricated. The district engineer, who had ridden live miles to meet the Premier’s party, guided ■them safelv to Wellsford, arriving at 10.30 p.m. The Premier was unable to speak at Helensville.

RETURNS TO AUCKLAND. Press Association. AUCKLAND, March 0. Sir Joseph Ward returned to Auckland from his northern tour this afternoon. In nil address at St. Benedict’s ■ Hall to-night, lie deprecated tho attacks made on tho financial position as boiyg likely to hurt the credit of the Dominion on the London market. He intimated his intention of replying to Mr. Massey at a later date. To-morrow Sir Joseph Ward goes to Wacrenga, on a visit to the experimental station there, and then to the cadet encampment ar. Pnkurn.