THE SALVATION ARMY.

Waikato Times, Volume XXXI, Issue 2530, 27 September 1888, Page 2

THE SALVATION ARMY.

Reception of Commandant H- H Booth.

[KKOM ODIt OWN COHHIWrOSDENT. I The steamer Done arrived about 5 o'clock on Monday last, bringing, besides other passengers Commandant Booth (son ot General Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army), and Stall Captain Allen, his secretary. As the officers were to be the quests of Sir W. Fox, they were at onco driven up to that gentleman's residence. The Commandant has great ability. On entering the barracks, accompanied by Col. Taylor, he was welcomed by a tremendous volley, from the large gathering of officers and soldiers, who had assembled from all parts of the North Island. When the Commandant rose to speak he was greatly applauded by the largo congregation present who represented nearly all denominations. He said he had been sent out to the colonies by the General tor the benefit of his health, and he was very glad to be able to pay a visit to his colonial comrades. He also said his father was going to take a trip out as soon as possible. It had been arranged by Col. Taylor that he should give nn address on the progress of the Army in England, but as he had not been aware of this till after his arrival, about two and alialf hours previously, hehad not had much time to think over the matter but would do his best. It had been said on all sides that General Booth was only a " brokendown parson," but he could assure them that he was nothing of the sort, for during the time he was a Wesleyan Evangelist, he had been very successful, and had been the means of converting thousands, He then described in a very forcible manner the work of the Army, and caused great amusement when recounting the obstructions they had met with, especially the trouble they had in printing the first War Cry newspaper, which had now a great circulation. He then alluded to the twenty-third anniversary of the Army in Alexandra Palace, in London, when he saw with his own eyes upwards of 40,000 Salvationists march past the General in procession. He was also glad to see that whatever port he landed at on his way out he was greeted by Salvationists. Mr Booth concluded his address by a few words of encouragement to the officers ot New Zealand, and was listened to with great attention. On Tuesday afternoon and evening " holiness" meetings were held, at which large congregations assembled, and among the number a large number of ministers.