THE SEVENTH CONTINGENT.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 59, 11 March 1901, Page 3

THE SEVENTH CONTINGENT.

DEPARTURE OF FIVE ADDITIONAL TROOPERS.

ADDRESS BY MAJOR McCREDIE,

Tub five men selected to supplement the previous draft for tho 7th Contingent paraded at the Drill-shed at 4.30 yesterday, and were marched to the wharf by Major McCredio, whore thoy were mot by Canon Webb, who made his usual presentation of a copy of the New Testament to each, saying a few feeling and appropriate words of farewell.

The men were paraded on board tho To Anau by Major McCredie, and after giving them their final instructions, said : “ My young recruits-for the 7th Contingent,—l have now finished my duties in regard to you, and would like before leaving you to say a few parting words. You have not been sent off with the usual public enthusiasm, no great patriotic speeches, no escort of volunteers or band to play old familiar airs ; you are departing quietly, yet with that true patriotic spirit worthy of the nation from which you spring. You are tho youngest section of men I have yet sent, none of you being over the ago of 21; you Mvo the world beforo you, and aro entering on a great experience. I would counsel each of you to observe discipline in tho strictest sense, which is ever the key to a soldier’s success, aye—l may say the success of the British arms. You aro going to fight for King and country under tho Union Jack, the flag which has been jealously guarded by those who have gone before. That you will equally honor it, and assist in keeping it spotless in the eyes of the world is my earnest wish. From the little knowledge I have of you I feel satisfied that your young hearts will glory in repelling any attempt to drag it clown. I wish you God-speed, and trust you will all be spared in health and strength to return and receive the hearty greetings of your relations and friends. I observe by tho telegrams that you arc likely to bo under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Porter, commanding officer of the district. Should this be your good fortune, you will find a grand example in bravery, a tried officer whoso deeds during the war in this colony still remain fresh in the memories of those who served undor him. You will find him a most considerate commanding officer, evor watchful for tho welfare of his men, dealing impartially with all. I have now to say farewell, bo brave, fearing nothing, that you may come back with honor.” The Major then shook hands with the men, who gave threo cheers as the launch left the ship. The men will bo met at Napier, where they will be entrained for tho camp at Wellington. On Saturday Major McCredie received word that Martin ancl Bruce, the two Coast men selected for tho Seventh Contingent, could not go, and he has therefore selected Robert Stevenson Breingan and Ernest James Jones. The complete draft is as follows :

Elias Partridge, aged 21 years, height sft 7in, chest 35]in, weight 9.10. John Taylor, age 21 vears, sft Bin, 361, 11.6.

James Roller Parker, 21 years, sft Sin, 38in, 10.4.

Robert Stevenson Breingan, 21, sft 9in, 39in, 11.3. Ernest James Jones, 20, sft 9in, 36in, 11.0.