GENERAL BIRDWOOD

Marlborough Express, Volume LIII, Issue 271, 18 November 1919, Page 3

GENERAL BIRDWOOD

VISIT TO AUSTRALIA

[Preßß Association.]

Australian and N.Z. Cable Association LONDON, Nov. 16. Tho Australian Press Association interviewed Sir William Birdwood before hi,s departure for Australia. Ho said: "My wife and myself aa-o looking forward with most pleasant* anticipation io, our forthcoming visJtto Aur-tralia. Ever since wo met tho first Australians in Egypt we have longed to see their home land. Wo know it must be a wonderful country to produce such men. The war ha,s brought me mtio contact with many Australians whom I count ■amena; my warmest friends. I wrote thousands of letters to relatives uf boys, itx)mc of whom were in distress, complaining thati they had neglected to write home. lam going to Australia., as Commander-in-Chie* land as a. guest of the Government, and will relinquish the position after my visit. I am not aware of the details of our tour, but I am confident we shall have the fullest opportunity of meeting old friends anidi their relatives and! also relatives of the gallant men who will never return.' Sir William Birdwood is due to arrive at Perth on December 19th. He will -remain with a married daughter till the Now Year, when he will proceed eastward. He will be absent from England for about six months. His subsequent movements are uncertain. There are renewed reports that he may be .appointed t!o tho command in India,. No arrangements have been made for him to visit .New Zealand. Their younger daughter accompanies him and Lady iiiixl-

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