THE IMPERIAL TROOPS

Lyttelton Times, Volume CV, Issue 12426, 15 February 1901, Page 6

THE IMPERIAL TROOPS

TIT KIR, NEW ZEALAND TOUR. AT NAPIER. [Per Press Association.] NAPIER, Feb. 14. The. reception to the Imperial troops was declared hy both the Premier and Golonei Wyndham io bo the most, imposing yet seen. All the country and town volunteers were in force, and the railway facilities were taxed to the utmost to bring the country folk to town. It- is estimated that 20,000 people were present, and the town was profusely decorated. A halt was called on- the; Marine Parade, where the troops were- briefly welcomed by the Premier, and the Primate gave a. short address, saying he recognised among the troops representatives of six regiments to which he. was chaplain at the siege of Lucknow. The troops were marched to the Recreation. Ground, where luncehon was provided, the officers being entertained at the Hawke’s Bay Club. Airine Tonore (Mrs G. P. Donnelly) presented Colonel Wyndham with her famous hack, The Master, which holds an unbroken record in the show grounds of the colony. Natives were present in large numbers, and gave dances entile Recreation Ground, 'and then- presented the officers with w number of valuable mats and other Maori curios. That part of the performance seemed to specially interest the visitors, who followed with a fine display of military drill. THE AUCKLAND VISIT. [Per Press Association.] AUCKLAND,-Feb. 14. The Premier has telegraphed to the Mayor as follows:—Mrs -and) Miss Seddon and myself will arrive on Saturday morning by the Tutanekai. Deeply regret that the Imperial authorities should have refused to extend time for the stay of the troops in Auckland by three days. This action is inconsiderate and reprehensible all things considered.