THE INSPECTOR OF VOLUNTEERS ON THE NELSON FORCE.

Westport Times, Volume V, Issue 867, 28 September 1871, Page 3

THE INSPECTOR OF VOLUNTEERS ON THE NELSON FORCE.

The following is an extract from Col. Harrington's report to the Defence Minister:—The movement in the Province of Nelson has been gradually declining for some time, and I cannot say that I observe any improvement since last year. On the 31st of March there were one corps of Artillery, two of Rifles, and 3 of Cadets. I must here remark that the latter are more nominal than real; for, of 155 enrolled, only 20 received full, and 59 half capitation allowance, showing that their attendance was anything but regular The muster of the Wakapuaka Artillery was unsatisfactory, and I felt it my duty to recommend the corps to resign its services, if they, could not induce their members to be more attentive. This has since been done. The City Rifles, which were lately formed from the old Company and City Artillery, do not appear to have made much progress, nor had they attended any parades for two months prior to my inspection. I was unable to see the Waimea Company or Motueka Cadets, as on the days I visited those places, the severe weather quite prevented any attempt at a muster. On inspecting the books of the latter, I found their attendance had been very small. On the whole, I regret to say that the inspection of this district was anything but satisfactory, and unless some marked improvement takes place during the ensuing year, I should feel it incumbent on me to recommend the disbandmont of all the corps. There was no class firing, but there are some good shots in the district; as will be seen on reference to the district firing the 'j Gazette," two representatives were sent to Auckland*, one of whom won an extra prize with .a good sCQ^eir