IN THE STREETS.

Auckland Star, Volume LVI, Issue 189, 12 August 1925, Page 9

IN THE STREETS.

YOUNG " JACKIE " ASHORE, j QUIET, WELL-BEHAVED CHAP. Knowing that over 11,000 men of the fleet were on the great ships lying out in the harbour, the people of Auckland expected to see large numbers of them ashore in the evening, and it seemed as if half the population of the city cencentrated in Queen Street to see the visitors and give them welcome. Contrary to expectations, however, there was not a great number of the naval men ashore, the majority of the leave men evidently preferring to leave their landing until to-day, and explore the city by daylight. In fact, tlje white caps of "the boys" were not at all conspicuous in the great crowd, though wherever they wore they were greeted; with .a friendly curiosity that "Jackie" did not mind in the least. In the way of the^ , -British cousins, they went two by two generally, though .here and there little groups of three or more pushed timidly through, the surging crowds of civilians, smiling as they went at the frank, and close curiosity of the people, seeming to say by their demeanour,'"'You'll get used to us in a day or two." ' The small, tight, white cap of "Jackie" detracts from his sailor-like appearance somewhat. It gives the impression'that' he has just come from the cookhouse. However, that aspect, too, Is one that we will soon be-t used to, for generally "Jackie" is a' trim and tidy fellow. The most amazing impression is that conveyed by his physique. Compared to the average Jack Tar he is a .very slight and Boyish figure, though there is no doubt i.s to. his smartness of action and his athletic ability. Neither is there anything lacking in his intelligence, which is of a very high order, for he has had a good schooling before going to sea. Then again, "Jackie" has not had time to fill out, for his average age is only about 21 years. His term of service is short, and he is ashore again mostly, and in civil -employment before he matures into thick-set manhood. Of course, many do; remain in the service, but most of them do. not.