Return of the Thames Contingent.

Thames Star, Volume XII, Issue 4023, 19 November 1881, Page 2

Return of the Thames Contingent.

The Volunteers who have been on active service at Parihaka returned last evening by the Eotomahana. The enthusiasm demonstrated on the departure of these brave men for the scene of anticipated hostilities was surpassed by that shown on their return. Long before the Eotomahana was in eight crowds of people congregated at the wharf, and strained their visual organs to catch a glimpse of the steamer that was to convey the much loved -oops once more to them. The police, in order to prevent any accident, erected a temporary barrier at the foot of the wharf, and none but the Press representatives, a few influential public men, and tbe band were permitted to witness the disembarkation of the troops. The Eotomahana came alongside, the passengers came off first, and afterwards the Volunteers drew up in line, the united band under tbe leadership of Mr Hunter, playing " Home Sweet Home/ 9 in the meanwhile. The contingent then formed fours, and headed by the band marched down the wharf. When arrived at the foot of Burke street they were hailed by the multitude with inspiriting cheers. Arrived at the Pacific^ a halt > was made, and His Worship" the Mayor addressed the men,' saying that their conduct while at Parihaka had given the greatest satisfaction. He welcomed them back in the name of the citizens of the Thames. Major Murray spoke, saying how proud he was to say that the Volunteers had shown themselves worthy of the high enconiums that have always been passed on them. Cheers were called for, and lustily responded to. The men were then marched to the Naval Hall, where they were dismissed. ___■