DEPARTURE OF THE NEW SOUTH WALES CONTINGENT.

Manawatu Standard, Volume IX, Issue 77, 4 March 1885, Page 3

DEPARTURE OF THE NEW SOUTH WALES CONTINGENT.

(byblbctbicteleghaph.— copyhight.) (reuter's telegrams.) Sydney, March 3. To-day was observed as a public holiday, to celebrate the departure of the Soudan 'contingent' The streets forming the line of route from the barracks to Circular Quay were lined with an immense number of spectators from all pjurtSj forming a dense mass. All the buildings and, points of vantage were crowded. The troops were escorted by 600 sailors, the marines from the warships, and the available local forces, accompanied by the Governor, Ministers, and official personages. The procession formed an imposing spectacle and popular enthusiasm was unbounded.' The contingent proceeded along the principal . streets, amid lotto* cheers and the good wishes of the assembled masses. Bea,chihff the quay the men were formed into hollow square, and were addressed by the Governor. He said this was the first time m the history of the empire ofi a. distant colony sending, at its -own cost, a completely equipped contingent of troops who had volunteereed with a enthusiasm of which those only who witnessed it could judge. They would be greeted m Egypt by a, hearty welcome from, thousands of chivalrous soldiers,' and the news of their exploits would be eagerly read m all parts of the world where our flag floats. The country, he added, charges itself with the care of their dear ones left behind. All that gener- * osity, tenderness, and gratitude could do for them would be looked upon as a labor of loveby thenation. The contingent.nuinhering 800 men, then marched on board the transports, which were accompanied to the Heads by a fleet of small steamers. ;.-.. Melbourne, March 8. The Governor and Premier have telegraphed their congratulations and good wishes to the New South Wales troops.