THE SIXTH CONTINGENT.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 22, 28 January 1901, Page 2

THE SIXTH CONTINGENT.

LEAVING WELLINGTON,

PARK ANKLE DEEP IN MUD.

ACCIDENT TO ACTING-PREMIER

[by telegraph—press association.]

Wellington, last night. The Wellington and Southern companies of the Sixth Contingent embarked here yesterday afternoon on the steamer Cornwall, which is now proceeding to Auckland to pick up the rest of the men and horses. In consequence of the death of the Queen there was no organised celebration in honor of the departing contingent. The conditions were somewhat depressing, for the temperature was low, and a strong southerly wind brought up frequent showers of rain and sleet. The full strength of the contingent is 560 rank and file. Of these 109 will embark at Auckland. Five hundred and eightythree horses are to be taken, 120 remaining to be shipped North. In the afternoon, at half-past three, the companies were paraded in marching order at Newtown Park, where the ground was ankle deep in mud. Colonel Pole-Penton, addressing tha men, gave some sound advice in a few pithy sentences, immediately after which a fewjjrders were given ; then the order quick march, and the men headed off for the city. Along the line of march-the footpaths were lined with people, and a considerable crowd had assembled at the entrance to the wharf, where a guard of honor, composed of the various volunteer corps and permanent militia, had been drawn up. As the contingent marched on to the wharf they were heartily cheered. On arrival alongside the troopship they were drawn up and addressed by the Acting-Premier and Mayor. Both gentlemen wished the men God-speed, good luck, and a safe return after they had performed their duty to their country. Mr Ward made special reference hi his speech to the fact that within fifteen days over 550 men had been provided with horses and fully equipped for service, a fea? to be regarded as marvellous in this colony. After the speech-making, which was exceedingly brief, friends and relations of the men were admitted to the wharf in order that mutual good-byes might be said. After about half an hour the ranks were formed again, and the soldiers marched aboard the transport, whose gangway and bridge were heavily draped in black. The Cornwall was clear of her berth shortly after 6 o’clock, and she steamed away in a heavy downpour of rain. The contingent cheered lustily in response to the farewells waved to them.

The Hon, J. G. Ward, who intended going to Auckland to-night, in order to sec the last of the contingent, was thrown from his hack yesterday, and sprained one of his ankles. The injury will prevent him going north.