UP TO THE MOUNTAIN.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXV, Issue 37, 15 February 1915, Page 7

UP TO THE MOUNTAIN.

HOME DEFENCERS ON THE MARCH. Yesterday will long bo reme nbpi vl by the members of the Stratford Home Deienco Rifle Chib as one ol lne most enjoyable they have spent together. At about 9.15 in Hie mom. ing a route march to the Stratford Mountain House was started m peifect weather. Nearly thirty members, under the command of Captain McMillan (0.C.), and Col.-Sergt, Richard.M ii, “breasted the tape” at the Defence Office, and marched along Broadway till Pembroke Road was reached, ai.d then the Mountain was boldly tackled. After having marched tor an hour, Mr S. H. Wickstped’s home was readied, where the company was agreeably , surprised to find a cup ol tea a-id other good things ready for them. The sun was now beginning to grow fairly hot, and at the end of an.uaer hour’s steady marching, Mr Bull's farm at the foot of the reserve was reached, where another imp of tea was partaken of. Ihe march up the track through the bush was undoubtedly the best part of the march, but no records were broken by the company, as they loft the farm at about 11.30 and did not arrive at the House until 12.45 p.m. Here the company were welcomed by Mr Williams, and in excellent luncheon was served. After luncheon some of the company strolled around the lower slopes ol the Mountain, while others rested. Before leaving, the company was drawn up in front of Mr Williams’ camera, md “taken.” The return march was started at 3.35, and the company reached the Defence Office at 0.55 p.m. The day’s outing was enjoyed by all, to judge by remarks dropped by various members, while Duty was served in a manner which speaks excellently for the esprit de corps among members. The kindness of Messrs Wicksteed and Bull made the march much more enjoyable, and probably, vs the O.C. put it, saved many valuable lives.