NEW ZEALAND.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXX, Issue 17, 7 September 1914, Page 3

NEW ZEALAND.

EXPEDITIONARY ©END-OFF AT CHRISTCHURCH. [Pnn Furs:? Aspooiatiom.] Christchurch, September fi. The send-off to the Canterbury section of the expeditionary force at King Edward Barracks on Saturday nigui took the form of a smoke concert. Inc force attended in large numbers,, and many ladies were present.

The Prime Minister and the Loader if the Opposition were present, and

many loading citizens. .Mr Massey received a great reception on rising to speak. In tho course of an eloquent patriotic speech, Mr Massey said: <l I want to remind yon of the bloodless victory of the first section of the expeditionary force. Don’t imagine that they ran no risk and were in no danger. I speak of what i. know, and I say they ran a very serious risk, and if it had not been for the assistance of the Australian Government and navy, and the navy of our Allies, the first section would never have been allowed to reach Samoa. Some day, tho history of what has taken place will bo written, and then you will understand what I am telling you.” Continuing, lie said: “I want yon to remember this—that tho first soldiers in the Empire to haul down the Gorman flag and replace it with the British were your follow soldiers and fellow citizens. (Great and continued applause). It is a good omen, an omen that will prove to ho right. I am certain of this. Though we arc going to have reverses and successes, I haven’t tho slightest doubt of the ultimate rosult.” (Applause).

Sir Joseph Ward also made a stirring patriotic speech. The Mayor presented Colonel Chaffoy with a flag purchased by the citizens. THE PALMERSTON GAMP. Palmerston X., September 5. For some reason undivulgoo the artillery six 18-poundor guns were unloaded again from the railway trucks to-day, and taken hack to camp, where the battery lias resumed training. All

arrangements had been made for their j safe transit to Wellington, but it is now reported that they will he hcio another week. The general impression is that the change of plans is in some way associated’ with the whereabouts of the convoy. A now feature of the marches out 'J cani]> is that the hand now accompanies infantry sections, Tne snarp rattle of the kettledrums recalls memories of English garrison towns. One company possesses a bagpipe player, who always heads them on marches. The entire infantry brigade started early this morning on a march to Ashhurst, one item of the programme being lunch on the roadside. r ! he wai news in keenly read, and it is having the effect of increasing the men’s eagerness to get to the i rout. As one man said: “We are chafing to got tithe front.”

An electoral officer has taken 'tin roll of the men in camp, to enabK them to vote presently in accordant with the new Bill before Parliament