UNFORTUNATE VOLUNTEERS.

Marlborough Express, Volume III, Issue 138, 3 October 1868, Page 4

UNFORTUNATE VOLUNTEERS.

To the Editor of the Marlborough Express. Sir, —I must again lay before the public the injustice of a few men in this province against the Volunteers, and in so doing, I must confess I tremble for fear that if I, as an humble member of society should ever come in their way, I sigh for the thoughts of what would become of me. Now, Sir, you are aware that our capitation has been stopped, for what reason is best known to him who had it stopped. But worse than it now took place, and all that makes Volunteers prosper is every country is taken from us. We have this week received a letter from Mr. H, Redwood, senr., saying that he cannot accede to our request for shifting the target, nor will he allow us to practise on his run again, for reasons he will not explain ; and in the event of us doing so, we shall be deemed as trespassers. - I place this matter before the public, and if they will allow it to be done in silence, I must confess I have mistook our friends ; and whilst on this subject I will say to the Volunteers, “ Cheer up ;” and should it ever come to your turn to retaliate, do so to a man, and let such men see that we are men and will not be trifled with. Again Volunteers, I say to you that the day is not far distant when you will be called upon to exercise your votes. Think then on times gone bye, and let some men see what we can do, and then you will hear what you will be promised. You will get everything till they have their own ends served, but don’t listen to such foolish nonsense and humbug. And now, Sir, I have placed this matter before the public ; and if they can help us, and will help us, why should it ever be our turn (Heaven forbid) to be called on, we might then show those that now despise us that we are the same blood as those old Waterloo and Crimean soldiers. Mr. Editor, I am sorry I have occupied so much of your valuable space, but really you must excuse me for giving vent to my feelings. In conclusion, I hope that the Volunteers will not allow volunteering to be knocked on the head quietly, for it is evident that some, if they had their way, it soon would be. At the same time be on your guard for the future, and you may rest contented that you have men amongst you who is prepared to do battle for you both through the public press, or on the hustings.

Yours, &c., A Volunteer. Blenheim, October Ist, 1868.