COLONIAL TROOPS IN EGYPT.

Auckland Star, Volume XLVI, Issue 82, 7 April 1915, Page 8

COLONIAL TROOPS IN EGYPT.

HIGH COMMISSIONER'S VISIT. WARM PRAISE FROM GENERAL MAXWELL. As a general rule (writes Rhode Knipht in the "British Australasian- ) lit is somewhat of a mistake for tno great stars to so on tour together, to return homo together, and then simultaneously acquaint the public- with their respective through the medium of an interviewer. Under these circumstances their renwni-i.cenree are apt tp involve a certain amount of unavoidable repetition with possible contradictions or differences according to the outlook of the observer. Speaking in this figurative way of the joint visit recently paid to Eirvpt by Sir George Reid and the Hon. "i'homas Mackenzie, whither they went to inepecfc the Expeditionary Forces dispatched by Australia and New Zealand, it may be said that in this case there is happily no conflict either of opinion or interest. Both the High Commissioners had practically the same objects in view; first, as already stated, to inspect the contingents, and, secondly, to ensure their comfort and well-being. Sir George Reid and Mr. Mackenzie are able to speak with first-hand knowledge of the splendid character of the men constituting these well-equipped and thoroughly organised fighting units, amounting 'in all to nearly 30,000, men, which the Commonwealth and the ■Dominion have gent to the aid of the Mother Country in her struggle against German militarism. They speak in almost unmeasured terms of praise and admiration of this body of horse, foot and artillery. And it is significant that their commendation, which might perhaps be regarded as not altogether impartial, is fully and cordially endorsed by the Commander-in-Chief, General Sir John Maxwell, General Birdwood, and other high authorities. On the conclusion of a review of the Australian contingent, held beneath the shadow of the Pyramids which a century or so ago had witnessed the passing of Napoleon and his army, General Maxwell requested Sir George Reid to convey his hearty congratulations to the Australian Government on the appearance of the men. Well he might, for they are the pick and flower of Australian manhood.

And as the solid columns of the New Zealand contingent swung past the saluting point at Heliopolis, General Maxwell turned to Mr. Mackenzie and £aid: "It would ba impossible, sir, to obtain better material anywhere." Regiment after regiment swept past, every man of good stature, with fine carriage, lithe and active, and hard as nails.

The High Commissioners both spoke in terms oi warm praise of the splendid transport arrangements which enabled these contingents to be brought so vast a distance without accident or hitch. And every reasonable, precaution has

been taken to ensure the well-being of the men while they are encamped in Egrpt

Both the Hipli Commissioners took orva.Mon (o address the men, reminding tlioni of the solemn obligations they had undertaken. It was their duly to got fit and to keep tit. The honour of Australia, the honour of New Zealand, was in their hands. Their own honour wns at stake. And it wae only by the highest personal efficiency in every sense thnt their responsibilities could be fully discharged, the honour and glory of. the Commonwealth and Dominion adequately vindicated and enchanced.