THE REVIEW LAST WEEK.

Thames Star, Volume X, Issue 3402, 17 November 1879, Page 2

THE REVIEW LAST WEEK.

To the Editor of the Eveniito Bta«.)

Stß, —A week ago to-day the flat at Tararu was the scene of a brilliant military field day. The Auckland volunteers took part with, their Thames brethren in the evolutionsjjo successfully carried out on that occasion under the really able oommand of our energetic district commander. For many years \ past the Thames force has had for one of its principal promoters the gentleman who now figures with advantage at its head. Major Murray has since his elevation to general command, taken the most lively interest in the welfare of every V corps of the field, and neglects no opportunity to ensure their efficiency and welfare. To his efforts in no small degree is attributable the present excellent appearance and condition of the Thames Scottish Battalion. To further the efficiency of the several companies, Major Murray used every exertion .this year to arrange for the Tararu review, and he so far succeeded that the most instructive , - day was spent by both Auckland and Thames Volunteers. The Tararu review was remarkable for a novel feature in its programme, in the shape of two detachments of smartly drilled Artillerymen. Next to the Artillery in smartness of appearance amongst Our Auckland visitors was the detachment of the Victoria Jiifles, which was conspicuous for its steady marcaing and the * evenness of its drill. Our own companies and the other Auckland corps, however, did remarkably well; there was not a 'perceptible hitch in tho day's proceedings. : I observed that the sun was sufficiently ; hot to leave its distinguishing mark upon ali the Aucklanders who took part in the . field-day, our own men were not affected to any great extent by sunburn. The ratiics of the Tararu army co&» - tamed many old soldiers who had seen active uer?ice, the proof of the succesa attending, the review was apparent by the general.verdict returned "by them, that the mancßiivres were alike creditable to the gallant Major at our head, and to the officer* and volunteers who so intelligently performed their respective parts. What we require is more opportunities of meeting together in large numbers as we did at this review, but how , any Government can expect to continue our zeal at so much expense to our own purses, without adequate encouragement is more than I can comprehend. Colonel's Wliitmore and Brett are agitating in tho Upper House for more consideration, so we must work on boys and hope that a better time it coming, when the services we render to the State will be fully'recognised. The Volunteer Force of JSew Zealand cannot become thoroughly fit for field service until it is put under canvas for a few days at a time for continuous training;. this is acknowledged by our military legislators, and has been pointed out by the inspecting officers of the force. I trust, there* fore, to see tho " Annual encampment" an accomplished fact before long.—l am, &J., -. " . '■■ Pipe-dt ax..