Reception of the Carbine Champion.

Auckland Star, Volume X, Issue 2774, 17 March 1879, Page 3

Reception of the Carbine Champion.

Tun members of the Naval Brigade, under Captain LeKoy, mustered at the Drill-shed ibis morning, aud proceeded with a guv and carriage to ihe Kail way Station for the purpose of paying* due honour to Petty OHiccr Gordon, who won the Carbine Champion Belt and Cup at the recent Rille Association's competition, at Nelson, After inarching round the city, tho champion and other representatives were entertained by thi.' members of this gallant corps to a breakfast at the Waterman's Dining-rooms. After a substantial repast, Captain Loßoy stated that lie had to congratulate Petty i Officer Gordon, of the Thames Naval Brigade, of being the Champion of tho Carbine in New Zealand. The feeling among the people of Auckland was of pleasure that the belt had come to the North. The other representatives, who although not so fortunate as to bring the infantry belt here, have struggled hard for to win. They must not lie down hearted, but try again next year. Before resuming his seat, he must apologise for the absence of Lieut. Chapman and Sub-Lieut. Parker, and other members, who were absent through busiuess and the short notice. Again he congratulated Champion Gordon. Captain Wildnian, of the Thames, on behalf of Petty OHiccr Gordon (who was too bashful to reply) said, "I thank you sincerely for your congratulations. At the range Gordon was always found, and at tho hall he was the liist to dance and the last to leave off: but he is rather backward now. I thank you also for your kindly welcome. It speaks of a good feeling amongst brothers-in-arnis ; but I cannot agree with your captain with regard to the belt being won by Auckland. Next year I want the Thames and Gordon to win, as it would be his own." The belt and cup were then handed round the room, and the company dismissed.