Two US warships, the heavy cruisers USS Northampton and USS Salt Lake City, arrived in Brisbane late today. Officially, the visit is stated to be part of a training cruise. They arrived quietly and no announcement was permitted until after the warships had reached port. They berthed at Newstead Wharf shortly before 6 p.m.

The flagship, Northampton, flies the colours of Rear Admiral S. A. Taffinder. There are 80 officers and 1,500 men on the two cruisers. The city authorities are planning receptions for the officers and crews during their stay.

The Northampton passed the Pile Light at 4 p.m. and the Salt Lake City 12 minutes later.

The District Naval Officer, Commander E. C. Rhodes, called upon Rear Admiral S. A. Taffinder as soon as the flagship berthed.

The American Consul, Mr. J. Ragland, will pay an unofficial call upon the Rear Admiral tonight.

As the cruisers steamed slowly up the river they displayed a marked contrast with the visit of American naval units in March this year, for both ships are painted drab battleship. A long spell of service at sea was suggested by the grim-stained hulls. A peculiar camouflage showed on the bows in the shape of an imaginary bow wash which gave the impression of high speed when the ships were steaming at about four knots. Both appeared to be carrying their full complements as the decks were lined by khaki clad marines and ratings in the typical navy blue.

Workers on their way home stood in knots along the river bank and cooed to the ships. The sailors lining the decks answered the welcome with cheery waves of their hands and, as the Northampton sailed up the Hamilton Reach the ship's band struck up lively tunes.

At Newstead a detachment of Royal Australian Naval Reservists were on duty to take in the lines of the ship.