-born Australian Commonwealth,
in whose hands are placed the destinies of the great island continent.
During a happy stay of many weeks in the different States, we were able
to gain an insight into the working of the commercial, social and
political institutions of which the country justly boasts, and to see
something of the great progress which it has already made, and of its
great capabilities, while making the acquaintance of the warm-hearted
and large-minded men to whose personality and energy so much of that
progress is due. New Zealand afforded us a striking example of a
vigorous, independent and prosperous people, living in the full
enjoyment of free and liberal institutions, and where many interesting
social experiments are being put to the test of experience. Here we had
the satisfaction of meeting large gatherings of the Maori people--once a
brave and resolute foe, now peaceful and devoted subjects of the King.
Tasmania, which in natural characteristics and climate reminded us of
the old country, was visited when our faces were at length turned
homeward. Mauritius, with its beautiful tropical scenery, its classical,
literary and naval historical associations, and its population gifted
with all the charming characteristics of old France, was our first
halting-place, on our way to receive, in Natal and Cape Colony, a
welcome remarkable in its warmth and enthusiasm, which appeared to be
accentuated by the heavy trial of the long and grievous war under which
they have suffered. To Canada was borne the message--already conveyed to
Australia and New Zealand--of the Motherland's loving appreciation of
the services rendered by her gallant sons. In a journey from ocean to
ocean, marvelous in its comfort and organization, we were enabled to see
something of its matchless scenery, the richness of its soil, the
boundless possibilities of that vast and but partly explored territory.
We saw, too, the success which has crowned the efforts to weld into one
community the peoples of its two great races. Our final halting-place
was, by the express desire of the King, Newfoundland, the oldest of our
colonies and the first visited by his Majesty in 1860. The hearty
seafaring population of this island gave us a reception the cordiality
of which is still fresh in our memories.

If I were asked to specify any particular impressions derived from our
journey, I should unhesitatingly place before all others that of loyalty
to the Crown