DEPARTURE IN RAIN

Evening Post, Volume CVII, Issue 109, 9 May 1924, Page 11

DEPARTURE IN RAIN

DISMAL SCENES AT LYTTELTON

YESTERDAY.

(HI TELEGRAPH PBEES ASSOCIATION.)

fCHRISTCHURCH, Bth jMay. Lyttelton was a dismal looking place this morning at 5.30 o'clock when a handful of peoplp ventured out in pitch darkness and torrential rain to witness the departure of the cruisers of the .Special Service Squadron, and at 6.2. o'clock the order came from the bridge, " Let go forward,'.' and at 6.25 o'clock the H.M.S. Delhi was steaming through the moles. No one ventured down to see the departure of the vessel, exceptiong the harbourmaster, pilot, and ? number of Harbour Board employees. There was continuous rain during the whole 'proceedings. Ten minutes later 11.M.5. Danae was following the Delhi through the channel. Then H.M.S. Dragon left, and by 6.25 the three vessels were : proceeding down the outer harbour. ' . . '

In a farewell message to the people of Canterbury, ' Rear-Admiral Sir H. Brand says :—"On leaving Canterbury I would like to express my deep gratitude and thanks to all'who have in any way contributed to the very warm welcome and kwish hospitality that officers and men of the Squadron have received in Christchurch, Lyttelton, and the neighbouring country. The resources of-tho country, the .great similarity to .England, the English characteristics of the people, and the great patriotism and loyalty to the Mother Country have made a lasting impression on all of us. It will always be a matter' of deep regret to us that we are unable to make a longer stay in this beautiful country, and so be able m some small measure to repay all. the hospitality we have received, - but we shall carry away with us the happiest' memories .of our visit,' and in saying good-bye we wish all every happiness and prosperity."