DEPARTURE OF THE SYDNEY CONTINGENT.

Lyell Times and Central Buller Gazette, Volume V, Issue 212, 7 March 1885, Page 2

DEPARTURE OF THE SYDNEY CONTINGENT.

Sydney, March 3. To-day was observed as a public holiday to celebrate tha departure of the Soudan contingent. The streets forming the line of route from the barraeki to Circular Qnay, were lined with an immense number <?f speetators frern all parts, fonninj a •dense mass. All the buildings and points •of vantage were erowded. The troops were tseorted by 600 sailors and marines from ■the warships, and all available local forces, -accompanied by the Governor, Ministers, and official personages. The proce*sieti •farmed an imposing spectacle, and the popular enthusiasm was unbounded. The contingent proceeded aloisg tha principal streets amid loud cheer in,® and the good wishes ©t the assembled masses, Reaching the Quay, the man formed a hollow •ft u are aad wer* addressed br the Governor, who said it was the first time in the history of the Empire, of a distant colony sending, at its own cost, a completely equipped contingent of troops, who had volunteered with an enthusiasm of which those only who witnessed it, could jnfige* They would be greeted in Egypt by a hearty welcome from thousands of chival- - rous soldiers, and the news of their exploits would be eagerly r';ad in all parts of the world where eur .flag floats. The country, he adde&, charges itself with the Chire of their dear ones left -behind. All In at generosity, tenderness, and gratitude could do tor them, would be looked upon as a labor of lore for the nation. Tae contingent, numbering 80®, then marched on board the transports, which were accompanied to the heads by aifleet of small steamers.