THE VOLUNTEERS.

Auckland Star, Volume I, Issue 77, 7 April 1870, Page 2

THE VOLUNTEERS.

"We observe that the annual inspection of the various Volunteer corps will be held by Lieutenant-Colonel Harrington during nest week. On Monday, the gallant Colonel will inspect the various city corps, the Eifles, Cavalry, Engineers, and 2S"aval Volunteers ; on Tuesday, the Volunteers at North Shore and the Whau; and on Wednesday, the Volunteers at Otahuhu and Howick. So far as the city corps are concerned, we beVeve that those members who have been attending to their duties evince very creditable proficiency in drill, and if nottnarred by the neglect of their brothers in arms, will bring credit to themselves in any inspection or review. But it is really to be regretted when we see the indifference among our community regarding the enrolment of a citizen soldiery. Invited by England to prove our manliness and selfreliance, and doubtless approaching to colonial independence, we neglect the only means which can make the change in onr 'relations a safe one. Volunteering enabled England to retain her dignified position by the side of France bristling with arms; and if ever JS Tew Zealand is to assume any position but the degrading one of cringing and begging for protection, we must learn to feel proud of the citizen soldier. We trust that Col. Harrington's inspection will not only be satisfactory in itself, but being the first annual inspection since England, told New Zealand that her own children must defend her, that it will result in the infusion of fresh vitality into volunteering.