THE NELSON CONTINGENT.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume III, Issue 262, 4 November 1868, Page 2

THE NELSON CONTINGENT.

The following extract, from a letter I received from Wanganui gives the details of two episodes in the career of our Nelsou Contingent, whilst at the Front, to which slight allusion was made at the time, aud which will show that although, owing to the force of circumstances, their active services have ouly lately been called into Tequisition, they only needed opportunity to show their quality: — ' You may probably have heard that the Kakaramea Redoubt, occupied by the Nelson Contingent, under the command ol Captaiu Spiller, was threatened at 1 p.m on the 6th ultimo by a large number of hostile natives, who advanced to within a short distance and delivered several volleys. The company was immediately got uuder arms by Capt. Spiller, who ordered Ensign M'Donnell lo proceed in skirmishing order, whilst parties were despatched under Ensign Morrison to act as a support. The rebels at once advanced upon your men and opened fire, but were gallantly met and ultimately repulsed. During the heat of the engagement Corporal Thomason, j of the Nelson Contingent, went with a few men and gallantly rescued a Mrs Anderson and some settlers who were living at some ■distance from the redoubt, and who, but for this timely aid, would in all probability have fallen into the hands of the rebels. *■ Three days afterwards, on the 9th ult. the sentries reported natives on the right of the Patea-road, in the direction of Mr Williamson's house, and they were shortly afterwards seen driving away some sheep. In the hope of saving Mr Williamson's house, Capt. Spiller at once advanced with •30 of his men, aod ou approaching the house, they found it in flames, and the rebels retiring. Fire was at once opened upon them, which was warmly returned ; the little fprce however pushed on, and succeeded in driving hack the rebels, who took refuge in the old Kakaramea Redoubt, and at once mounted the parapets, though not without some loss, for several natives •were seen to fall during the engagement.

I am told that your men were most anxious to attack the stronghold, but Capt. Spiller very prudently, taking into consideration the meagreuess of his force, rehired. I may add that throughout the whole affair Captain Spiller showed great pluck, tact, and coolness, and I understand that he speaks, and with justice, iu the highest terms of the conduct of his officers and men.