Volunteer Inspections.

Thames Star, Volume IX, Issue 3029, 30 October 1878, Page 2

Volunteer Inspections.

THAMES SCOTTISH BATTALION.

The first monthly inspection of our two fine Scottish companies as a battalion took place at the Academy of Music last evening. "The gallery was crammed with spectators and the stage with ladies, which fully bore testimony to the popularity of the Scottish Volunteers. The No. 1 Company mustered 90 strong, and the No. 2 60. Owing to the large number present it was impossible to exercise the whole battalion at once. After some preliminary drill, Major Withers, accompanied by Major Murray and Battalion-Surgeon Kilgour, inspected the ranks. A section of the No. 1 Company was then put through the bayonet exercise, and executed the movements in a highly credit* able manner. After, some marching drill, Volunteer Hyman was called to the front, and, at the request of Major Withers, went through the sword exercise in a manner I which elicited the warm applause of the spectators and the approval of the Major, who congratulated the officers on having such an efficient instructor in the use of the sabre as Volunteer Hy man. Mrs Kilgour, theMayo'ress, then presentedSergt. Moore of No. 1 Company with the Company's Champion Belt, and also presented to Volunteer Adams the Champion Belt of No. 2 Company. *' Some money prizes were also presented to the winners. Major Murray called for three cheers for Mrs Kilgour and Major Withers, which were heartily responded to. Major Withers complimented the men on their smart appearance and steadiness. He said their helmets were the first he had seen and thought them most becoming. He hoped the next time he had the pleasure of inspecting the No. 2 Company that they would be in uniform. A short march out then took place, headed by the band, and the battalion^ w-as dismissed at 9 o'clock. r „'. :