TROOPS LAND

Evening Post, Volume XCVIII, Issue 19, 23 July 1919, Page 8

TROOPS LAND

BRITON DETAINED IN THE STREAM

INFLUENZA ON BOARD.

With another large draft of returning troops, as well as soldiers wives, naval passengers, and. other details, the liner Briton arrived in port this morning, and dropped anchor in the stream at 7.40 a.m. On the usual medical examination being carried out by the Port Health officials, it was discovered that there were some cases of sickness on board, and some doubt was entertained as to the men getting ashore. The position, however, was relieved by the decision of the authorities that as there were only three cases necessitating quarantine, and the health of the remainder of those on board being good, the troops could-, be landed, but the vessel would not be permitted to go alongside until disinfected. Altered arrangements were • therefor© necessary, with the satisfactory result to all concerned that the ferry steamer Duchess was procured to convey the troops and passengers ashore at half-past one o'clock this afternoon. Under the direction of Captain Priotor these arrangements were carried ont without a hitch, and as the Duchess came alongside, .those on board were given a rousing reception-. Those suffering from influenza are two soldiers and a civilian. They are at present isolated on board, and will be transferred to quarantine' on Somes Island to-morrow. The Port Health Officer reports that the condition of the patients is not serious. The Briton is remaining in the stream for a thorough disinfection, and it is probable that she will berth to-morrow. The draft, in command of LieutenantColonel Sommerville, comprises 1177 troops, 73 wives of soldiers, and a number of naval ratings.and civilian passengers. The numbers of men proceeding to various destinations as arranged are as follow :—Stations north, of Marton, 498; Palmerston North, Wanganui, New Plymouth. Napier, and Gishorne, 295; Weltiligtbrt City, 159; Wairarapa district, 70; Picton, Nelson, and West Coast, 55; Christchurch City, 38; south of Christchnrch, 72. Those present at the wharf this afternoon to welcome the men included the Mayor (Mr. J. P. Luke) and the-Mayor-ess and lady helpers in patriotic work, who distributed cigarettes and other acceptable gifts to the troops. The Patriotic Society's Band, under Bandmaster Jupp, sen., was in attendance, and there was a good assemblage of the Voluntary Motor Reserve, under Cautain Pryor, to convey men to various parts of the city. The usual reception is being accorded at the Returned" Soldiers' Club. The troops embarked at Tilbury Docks, London, and experienced a pleasant voyage throughout. A call was made at Colon, ■where the local Tesidonte entertained the troops with their usual hospitality. Apart from the slight outbreak of influenza,- there was comparatively little sickness on board. The Janie Seddon assisted the Duchess in bringing the troops ashore. A medical officer, nurses, orderlies, and immediate attendants have been left on board to pare for the patients, and they will also go .into quarantine to-morrow.