Off to the Front

Taranaki Daily News, Volume LVII, Issue 104, 25 September 1914, Page 4

Off to the Front

THE EXPEDITIONARY FORCE. ENTHUSIASTIC PROCEEDINGS. By Telegraph—Preßg Association Wellington, Last Night. Wellington's official farewell to t>io provincial eecrtion of the main Expeditionary Force and the Artillery Brigade took place this afternoon at, Newtown Park. Large crowds watched the March of the troops to the park, and when, at about 2.30, the Governor addressed the men, there were between 35,0W and 40,000 people present. I The morning had been overcast, and rain threatened at midday, but then the sun came out brightly, and everything pointed to continuation of fine weatber. iieforo the ceremony was concluded, however, drizzling rain began, and a huge crowd as well as the troops got rather damp as they madc( their respective ways (homewards or to quarters for the sight. The proceedings in the streets and a>t the park were marked by much enthusiasm. Territorials, cadets and boy Scout* assisted in maintaining a clear road for the troops, who afforded an inspiring spectacle as they marched past, headed by their own band and with several city bands assisting at various points. At 2.30 p.m., when His Excellency the Covernor arrived, the whole of the issembled troops came to the "Royal Salute," and the bands played the National Anthem. His Excellency was accompaaied by the Prime Minister, the Minister for Defence, the Leader of the Opposition, and tho Mayor (Mr J, P. Luke). Others present included members of both Houses of the Legislature. HU Excellency then inspected the force, after which he delivered a stirring speech, in which he bade the troops goodbye. Speeches were also delivered by the Prime Minister, the Minister for Defence, tho Leader of the Opposition (Sir Joseph Ward), and the Mayor. The whole gathering then sang the wellknown hymn, "O, God, Our Help in Ages Past," the crowd joining heartily, and prayers followed, after which the'troops marched past His Excellency in the column of route emerging from the park with various bands distributed throughout the column at regular intervals. Tho troops marched through the city. Tiie streets were lined by thousands of citizens en route, and the troops were vigorously cheered as they passed by. | Near tho Government Buildings, parade . was dismissed, and Wellington had said : its official good-bye to the soldiers.