THE UNITED STATES FLEET.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2203, 29 May 1908, Page 3

THE UNITED STATES FLEET.

THE AUCKLAND VISIT.

SIXTEEN BATTLESHIPS COAIING

(Press Association.) AUCKLAND, Alay 28

Air. Prickitt, the American Consul, received a cable to-day from Admiral Sperry, commander of the American fleet, with reference to the visit to Auckland. Tho Admiral stated that there would be sixteen battleships, and he desired particulars of anchorage available in tho harbor. Air. Prickett has communicated with tho Prime Alinister and Chairman of tho Auckland Harbor Board for official information.

Captain Duder, Harbormaster, states that there will not be the slightest difficulty ,in acommodating the vessels. A fleet of 60 or 70 vessels could anchor here without interfering with our shipping, be says. The Premier intimated to the Alayor and Chairman of the Harbor Board that he was prepared to introduce a Bill legalising expenditure by local bodies of such sums as they deem lit in connection with the celebrations to welcome the American fleet. The Mayor is convening a meeting of representative local bodies to decide the basis of contributions.

THE PACIFIC COAST VOYAGE. TRIUMPHAL PROGRESS. United Press Association —Copyright (Received Alay 28, 10.20 p.ni.) NEAV YORK, Alay 28. The voyage of- the American battleships up the Pacific Coast was one of triumphal progress, and everywhere they were received with frantic enthusiasm. Over three -hundred thousand people witnessed the parade at Seattle of the bluejackets and the Federal troops of the State. The militia officers declare that the lavish hospitality has demoralised the crews, thus necessitating a period of stiff discipline.