OUR MILITARY CHIEF.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 4, 5 January 1914, Page 5

OUR MILITARY CHIEF.

GENERAL COPLEY'S RETURN.

SPLENDID EDUCATIONAL TRIP.

[Per Press Association.] Auckland, Janu.iry 5

General Godley returned by ihe A ictoria from a visit to the United States, Canada, and hngia-id. he stated be had / been afforded facilities lor studying the excellent system of military education in vogue in the United States. In Canada he discussed Imperial defence questions with the Minister for Defence and leading military officers, and met Sir lau Hamilton, who was on a visit of inspection. Two officers travelled to England in his company and arranged the provisional itinerary for Sir lan Hamilton's visit to New Zealand in April.

General Godley attended the Irish manoeuvres in September, returning to England for the Army manoeuvres during the same month, and being appointed to the staff of Commender-in-chief, Sir John French. General Godley had exceptional opportunities of seeing the latest developments of military science during the manoeuvres. He was sent for by tho King, who questioned him closely as to the progress of the universal training scheme, and showed keen interest in the New Zealand citizen army. He especially inquired of the Third Mounted Rifles, Auckland, and First Infantry, Canterbury, of which he is Colonel in chief. The King was riding a X.Z. horse, Black Charger, which has been his favourite mount for nine years. Lord Roberts asked General Godley a great many questions concerning universal service opposition, to which General Godley added: "I was happily able to say it was not very serious, as people fully appreciated

its advantages. General Godley conferred with the War Office on matters connected with trie New Zealand defences, and discussed with Ministers the possible co-operation between the forces of New Zealand and Australia.