Glimpses of Glenavy.

Waimate Daily Advertiser, Volume IV, Issue 256, 16 September 1902, Page 3

Glimpses of Glenavy.

(FROM OUR OWN CORRESI’ONDI'NT.)

The reception tendered to returned troopers here fast 1* riday night was well attended, about sixteen returned men being present from various districts. 'The school was thronged by the public who assembled to do honour to “our boys.” the

assembly sung the National Anthem as the returned men marc red by half sections into the hall led by the senior Non-com. Tney then formed in lino facing the speakers. Mr A. Pelvin (chairman of Reception Committee) then addressed thorn, saying that he felt great pleasure, on behalf of the residents, to welcome the troopers here to night. Ho referred in glowing terms to their services at the front and said that the colonial soldiers had shown

that they could be robe 1 upon in every emergency. (Applause.) Mr Pelvin then called upon Mr E. Butt, who in the course of bis remarks said that our men had, while at the scat of action, dona their duty bravely, daw South Wales had soma years ago inserted the thin end of the wedge of colonial patriotism by sending troops to the Soudan. This South African war had shown conclusively to the world that the colonials would have to be reckoned with in the event of any menace to the Mother Land. He pointed out that under the shadow of the British flag that great combine of freedom, equality of citizenship, and justice were ever obtainable. (Great applause.) He welcomed them to the ball, and trusted they would enjoy themselves that evening. Mr J. McGowan then addressed the men, and humorously pointed out that in spite of their efforts peace had been delayed till King Dick had put his foot in South Africa. (Laughter.) The colonial soldier had proved himself capable and had beaten the Boer at his own game. He trusted they would enjoy themselves, and said he was glad to be able to welcome them there that night. Sergt. Peebles (Gleuavy Contingent N.0.M.R.) briefly welcomed the men on behalf of the B Squadron and the local Contingent. This finished the chin music, and the Grand Match was led ofi by the senior N.C.O. of the returned men. Dancing was kept up with vivacity till the sapper adjournment took place, and after 1 takin g cargo aboard vje shoved off again intQ the stream of

pleasure and sailed gaily along till 2.45 a.m., when we struck on the rock of time and had to make fu: home in divers ways. Just before leaving the ship we joined hands and sang “ Anld Lang Syne ”in a variety of keys. But that did not matter, so long as the sentiment was right, bother the music. The Senior N. ..0. of the Contingent called for three cheers for the committee, which were given lustily. Shore going boots and cloaks were fished out and the ship was soon deserted, the melancholy task of putting l * lights out to save them froth “blowing up” falling to the unfortunate left one. During the ci uise songs were contributed by ihe following members of the crew Mr L. Butt, “T ie Midshipmite ” ; Mr M. iienstrich, “The Aoex of Comicalities” and

“ There's Another Cool Man Gone Bung” (this singer was recalled 14 times, but had to bow his acknowledgments) ; Wiremn '.Vhaitiri sang “ Soldier versus Min ” ; Mr AH'. Be Ivin recited Iviplmg’s “ Loot.” Ts the same with dogs and men, you can bring them on again by simply crying “ Loot ! Mot! loot ! ” This, I hear, is cotrect in the abstract, d gs and men being similarly situated, but man always has the advantage, the .man having his side pockets to fill up as well as hi.-; well —interior.

T:>h commitUin’s thanks are hereby rendered ro those ladies who so ably assisted in the L'mic! ion.

Mi- M. Leonard furnished the music and Mr A. iVlvin acted as M.C., noth r/ivi litre very sat is faction.