WAIMEA WEST.

Colonist, Volume IV, Issue 351, 5 March 1861, Page 2

WAIMEA WEST.

PRESENTATION OP A BUGLE TO'-NO. 8 COMPANY,

OF NELSON RIFLE VOLUNTEERS. The Volunteers of Waimea West, (No. 8 Company) assembled on Friday last, at 12 o'clock, in. the paddock near: Captain Morse's house, to receive a bugle from the ladies of the district. About one o'clock Lieutenant-Colonel Richmond, C.8., and his Adjutant, Captain Lockett, having arrived, the drill commenced with various light infantry movements ; and after a series of manoeuvres concluded by passing round in review in quick time. Three sides of a square having then been formed, Mrs. Blundoll, at the request of the ladies of Waimea West, advanced and read the following address:-- ---' Captain M#rse— 'The pleasing task has been imposed on me to-day of presenting to you a bugle for the use of No. 8 Company Nelson Volunteers. .' You are requested to receive it from the ladies of Waimea West as a token of their gratitude for the comfort and confidence afforded^ them by having as defenders their husbands, their sons, and brothers, and for the spirit with which the Company has formed itself into a disciplined military body, for the defence of our hearths and homes ; and although we trust the bugle may be needed for no more than the common purposes of parade, yet we feel confident that if its sound should be heard in the battle-field, the Waimea West Volunteers will be ready to emulate their countrymen in the stern aad self-denying duties of the patriot soldier. 'Praying our Heavenly Father may continue to avert from us the miseries of war, we beg your acceptance of this token of our thankfulness." ' Pray allow me, sir, to request jfou will invite the Company to give three hearty cheers for our good and gracious Q,ueen and her loyal Volunteers/ The lady then retired amidst the energetic cheers that her complimentary and loyal address had evoked. Captain Morse, in a very appropriate speech, returned thanks in. behalf of his company, and at tlv^QonaUwiott was. loudly shared by the members.,

]3 , The Captain tben addresse&Keu-tenant-Colonel 1 'Ifi3hmond*, Tj.B.,' tTfonlun§tiirn'mr^tne""'honor he had done them by being present on the occasion. This was followed by three cheers for the Colonel, who, in addressing the Company said he was glad to see so good a feeling existing among all parties, aad considered that great praise was due both to officers :and men for their efficiency. Three cheers for the ladies were then given, followed by three cheers for the Adjutant, Captain Lockett. The ceremony then concluded by tbe band playing ' God Save the Queen.' Nothing could exceed the goodwill and harmony that prevailed among all parties. A large booth, containing refreshments^ was erected in a convenient spot, and the Nelson Volunteer Band played various popular airs, acquitting themselves to the satisfaction of all present. Foot races, hockey, quoits, and other sports- succeeded, and in the evening a ball took place -at Mr. Palmer's, and was continued until a late hour.