THE MOONLIGHT EXCURSION TO PORT CHALMERS.

Evening Star, Volume VII, Issue 2017, 22 October 1869, Page 2

THE MOONLIGHT EXCURSION TO PORT CHALMERS.

(FROM a CORRESPONDENT.) ’ The moonlight excursion took place last night, according to advertisement, aud a very pleasant evening’s enjoj’ment it was. Long before the steamer arrived in the Baj r , nearly everybody in Port Chalmers, both young and old, had turned out; and no sooner were the strains of Floury’s band heard, than the jetty was crowded to welcome the excursionists. Our band for some reason or other was not in attendance ; but to make up for their absence there were plenty of fireworks, shy rockets, blue lights, and Pomau candles, with no end of crackers, let off by the boys. Of course, the moon was magnificent, an 1 not a breath of wind was to "be felt. The steamer, on reaching the Bay, ran down among the shipping, where everything was in readiness to receive and welcome the company. The captain of the Asterope was the promoter of the whole affair, and deserves thanks for helping to put some life into the good folks of Port Chalmers. He had his ship beautifully illuminated, and blue-lights from the yard-arms, jib, aud spanker booms made the ship appear one blaze of light. The band playing a lively tune, and oh ! such a glorious cheer from all parties, made our hearts rebound again. All the ships iu harbor gave their help, by lighting up or firing guns ; and Goldie’s battery in Carey’s Bay, and our late Mayor’s (J. Taylor Esq.) battery on the heights overlooking Port Chalmers, belching forth their tire, would have told any enemy he would a warm reception. On the excursionists landing at the Port, the band playing all the time the most lively music, the people dispersed, some to chat with friends, others to look at the dock, and everyone to make themselves happy for nearly an hour. The fair dames of the Port who hail from Green Erin, requested the band fto play 1 ‘ St Patrick’s day in the morning,’’ and "Garry Owen,” and were obliged in a moment. The word was given, "All on hoard,” and thus ended for the Poit people a very happy evening. It is a matter for congratulation that the excursionists were of the most select charac* ter. It is proposed to repeat the trip during next month, when an extra steamer will bo used to prevent overcrowding, and effort* will be made to make the attractions greater if possible. Plank.