THE IMPERIAL TROOPS.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 32, 7 February 1901, Page 2

THE IMPERIAL TROOPS.

ENTHUSIASM IN. DUNEDIN,

[BY TELEGRAPH—PRESS ASSOCIATION.] , Dunedin, last night. The march of the Imperial troops through the main streets of the city to-dav was a stirring spectacle, and witnessed by a very large crowd, as large almost as on the occasion of the departure of the Fourth and Fifth Contingents. The early hour of 11.30, at which the march was commenced, prevented more than one band, besides that with the visitors, takiim part. This was the only deficiency in the greatest military display seen in Dunedin, llie Volunteers mustered just on one thousand strong, so that there were fully 1700 men in the procession. The streets along the line of route, nearlv four miles in length, were lined with a crowd which was so dense that in the centre of the city windows, roofs, etc., were utilised. The detachment of each company, as it passed, received enthusiastic cheers, the Highlanders being the great favorites. JusfTas the men were being dismissed a heavy and prolonged shower fell. The Imperials weie entertained at lunch, whon thoy were welcomed by the Mayor and tho Hon. J. G. Ward. The officers were entertained by the Volunteer officers of the district. Many of the men were driven about tho city and suburbs during tho afternoon by then- hosts.

TOMMIES OBJECT TO FUSS. . Dunedin, last night. Hie Imperial troops were entertained at a social in tho evening, the gallery being reserved for the hosts of the men, It was evident, however, that the Tommies, being free to do as they pleased, preferred a prh vate entertainment provided by the hosts, or to find amusement outside, and there ™ s ° nl J’ a moderate number present. The Mayor, hi a brief speech mentioned that another 150 men could have been easily accommodated. Colonel Wyndham had remarked that he had never seen such an orderly crowd, as clear a spaco boing left for inarching as if two or three thousand men had lined the streets.

Christchurch, last night. Arrangements have now been completed for the reception of the Imperial troops. When tho men arrive to-morrow night tnoywill be entertained at a supper at tho Exhibition Buildings, and then proceed on board the Britannic at Lyttelton. On Friday morning they will return to Christchurch, hold a review there, and bo entertained at luncheon, and the officers will bo the guests of tho citizens at lunch. The Britannic will leave for Wellington at four o’clock.

T . , Napier, laskniglit. The Imperial troops arc to bo entertained at luncheon in booths croctod on the Recreation ground. Wanganui, last night. At a public meeting to-night it was resolved to accept the Hon. J. G. Ward’s offer for tho Imperial troops to visit here. Arrangements are being made to billet the men.