NAVAL MASCOT DEAD

Hokitika Guardian, 27 November 1931, Page 8

NAVAL MASCOT DEAD

TOGO, OF TI.M.'S. PHILOMEL. J KALOUS SI LI PM ATE’S AC'!'. WELLINGTON, November 24. Togo, the bulldog mascot of 11.A1.5. Philomel is (lead, and Woofit, a siiioutlihaired terrier that also lias Ills home on the training sliip, is in disgrace. Togo was presented by a ißemuera resident last year as a mascot for the marines in the guard-house at the entrance to tho naval base at IJevonport, but was i’ater presented by the marines to the Philomel. From tho day that Togo went on board the Philomel a feud began that ended in the bulldog’s death on Tuesday evening. Woofit was jealous of the attentions that Togo .received from the bluejackets. Every effort was made to keep the mascots apart, but on r I uesday evening when Togo was being exercised on the wharf the terrier sprang a surprise attack. There was a sharp snapping of jaws as the dogs fought, and then both fell into the harbour. Woofit appeared to enjoy the dip, and made for the shore unconcernedly, but Togo was a notoriously, bad swimmer and had to be rescued by the bluejackets. Resuscitation efforts were tried for over an hour; but Togo had fought his last battle, and yesterday he was buried in the little mascots’ cemetery on shore.