AUCKLAND SPECIAL.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 108, 16 May 1901, Page 2

AUCKLAND SPECIAL.

SPORTING.

to Times.)

AueV did, last night. The Gisborne pony Ivan again proved successful at the Ar. '.'.and Trotting Meeting, held this after; m. He won the big event, the Autumn Handicap, in a very easy manner, bu' was unsuccessful in the five furlong event.

SERGEANT-MAJOR PITT. Among the returned soldiers from South Africa to-day is W. Pitt, an'exGisbornite. Pitt is a member of the Torpedo Corps, and ieft for the seat of war with the Auckland branch of the First Contingent. Whilst in South Africa ho gained promotion as sergeant-major. The ex-Gisbornite can tell many a tale of tho vicissitudes and ups and downs experienced in that far-off land, also of his being captured by the Boers and the escape. The North Shore Football Club are pleased to have their comrade back once more. Pitt was a great acquisition to tho marine suburb. A FINE SPEECH.

In proposing the toast of tho returned soldiers to-day, our new mayor, Dr Logan Cainpoell, who is 84 years of age, said: — “ It is now nearly half a century since I inaugurated the volunteer movemont in Auckland, and I little thought in those long by-gone days that tho movement intended as a precaution against Maori outbreaks, would develop into tho great institution of to-day. Far less did I think I should live to see tho men of Now Zea-

land going forth to do battle for the Mother Country. Like brave and patriotic men you went to tho front in the hour of need. You have witnessed tho horrors of war. You have returned to know the blessing of peace, but peace can only bo secured by the strong arm of power, and our willingness to fight for our hearths-and homes. Yon have earned a name for this land of our adoption, as bravo men and good soldiers who know how to fight, and were prepared to die. I have been called the ‘ father of tho volunteers,’ and proud am I to see around mo to-day some of my brave hoys who have come back, and who are now waiting to be welcomed into tho loving arms of proud and happy mothers, wives, aunts, and cousins, and not last or least, some dearer one still.