INTEREST IN MAORIS

Dominion, Volume 33, Issue 266, 5 August 1940, Page 6

INTEREST IN MAORIS

King Visits New Zealand Troops In Camp

thorough inspection

LONDON, July 12.

Heavy summer rain, falling in torrents, drenched the men of the second echelon when the King visited them at their camp. It was the first heavy rain they had experienced since landing, ami they would have preefrred that it had fallen another day. Whatever other effect it may have had, it certainly did not damp the enthusiasm of the troops or lessen the thoroughness of the King’s inspection. His Majesty was met by MajorGeneral B. C. Freyberg, V.C., and Mr. W. J. Jordan, the High Commissioner. "Is your overcoat sufficient protection for you against, this downpour?” the King' asked Mr. Jordan, showing his characteristic thoughtfulness. Mr, Jordan assured him on the point, and the tour of inspection began. The King was at the camp for six hours. Units for the most part were engaged in routine training, but the railway construction and maintenance group was drawn up for a formal inspection. Then the King went on to see the Maoris. Their drill had greatly interested other visitors to the camps, and His Majesty was equally attracted by it The Maoris were undergoing bayonet instruction, and after watching one section the King moved on with a broad smile. Under the Royal e.w a Maori sergeant was going through the patter of drill instruction. It may have been force of habit, or it may have been that he was particularly anxious that no slips should occur on this important occasion. At any rate the Maori exhorted Ills men : "For goodness sake don t drop your rifle.” It was a moment admirable for H. M. Bateman. But fortunately no rifle was dropped, the order was executed neatly and the King moved on smiling to himself.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY For Our Homeland. Our Father in Heaven, we beseech Thee of Thy great mercy to give Thine Angels charge over our high seas. Grant Thy Divine, protection to all the cities, seaside towns, and the villages of our Homeland. Save our mariners and all who travel by water from the dangers of .submarines and hidden mines. Protect our airmen from tempests and hidden foes. Grant, courage and endurance to those who have to suffer the ravages of invasion by air, the landing of hostile armies and the treachery of spies. Let. Thy Holy Angels encamp around the habitations at home of those who are near and dear to us. Speedily restore, if it may be, peace In this greatlytroubled world. We ask it in the Name of the Prince of Peace. Amen.