A RETURNED TROOPER.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXI, Issue 199, 22 August 1900, Page 5

A RETURNED TROOPER.

WELCOME TO MR. T. TAYLOR.

A cordial welcome-home, in the shape of a social, was tendered last evening at Devonport to Trooper Tom Taylor, of the First Contingent oi New Zealanders for South African service. Mr Taylor, who left the Permanent Force at North Shore to join the contingent, was invalided back after seeing considerable service. The social took place in the Holy Trinity Schoolroom, Devonport, which was most tastefully decorated with flags and flowers. There was an artistic canopy over the raised platform. The attendance was large, and prominent amongst those present were a large company of Taylor's comrades in uniform. The entrance of Mr Taylor was the signal for loud applause. The vicar. Rev. S. W. Hawthorne, presided. Apologies were received from the Mayor, and the Revs. Beecroft ana Ferguson. Each sent their congratulations, and regretted previous engagements prevented their attendance. The chairman gave a resume of the career of Sapper Tom Taylor, arid his service in the campaign. Mr Templar gave two readings from Kipling, "The-Widow of Windsor" and "The Lay of the ClampherdoAvn." Mr. W. Philson sang- "The Soldiers in tne Park." Mr Gould, a gentleman wno had the honour of being the secretary of the executive committee at Wellington when the First Contingent were sent off", gave a welcome to Taylor. The song, "John Bull," was then given by Mr Allen. On rising- Mr Taylor was received* with loud applause. His address was very brief. He returned his thanks to all for his reception, and spoke highly of C4eneral French's conduct towards the rank and file.

The audience sang "For He's a Jolly Good Fellow," and three cheers were given, followed by the singing of "God Save the Queen." Three hearty cheers given for Her Majesty closed the proceedings.