DEPARTURE OF HIS EXCELLENCY LIEUTENANT-GENERAL SIR DUNCAN CAMERON, K.C.B., FROM NEW ZEALAND.

New Zealand Herald, Volume II, Issue 541, 7 August 1865, Page 6

DEPARTURE OF HIS EXCELLENCY LIEUTENANT-GENERAL SIR DUNCAN CAMERON, K.C.8., FROM NEW ZEALAND.

Yesterday, according to previous announcement. this gallant soldier who has for four years filled the and responsible post of Com iiK'.nder of Her Majesty's Forces in New Zealand, left these Colonies in the s.s. Prince Alfred for Sydney, en route for England. The certainty of this event, when it had become known upon the arrival of dispatches by the last mail, leaving the General no alternative but to resign his command, created a feeling of universal regret. It was true that ilio General was under no compulsion to resign his important and responsible commission, but he could not but feel that in the present circumstances of the Colony, to have retained his office would bo to share the merited opprobrium that has followed upon the collapse of political intrigue, and to divide the responsibility of future failure or disaster with those who have not hesitated to sacrifice the interests and safety of the whole Colony to local greed of place and power. General Cameron, whose gallantry as a soldier, or wiiose honor as a gentleman had not been impeached, felt that he must either resign his command, or be placed in a false position in respect to the authorities at home, and becomc powerless and a mere cypher in the Colony. The moment, however, his fixed intention became known to the citizens of Auckland the suggestion was made that he should Dot be suffered to depart without some mark of respect for his character as well as a recognition of his services, and a memorial of the affectionate relationship which subsisted between himself, his family, and the great body of the colonists in tiiis most Northern Province of New Zealand. So soon as his probable return to England was known, it was suggested by the Herald and the Cross that lie should be entertained at a banquet, and that he should hear the commendation of the colonists from their own lips, and uttered with all the fulness of heart which the occasion would warrant. The idea was instantly seized, that something should be done to do his Excellency honor upon the occasion of the severance—we would fain hope the temporary severance—of his connexion with this most remote of English colonies ; but this mode did not provide au expression sufficiently significant of the gratitude felt by the people of Auckland, nor of the estimate they had formed of the General's public and private worth. Following up the suggestion, however, that some public compliment should be paid to his Excellency, a preliminary meeting was held in Mr. S Cochrane's Auction Mart, on Tuesday, the 18th ult., at which, most of the influential merchants and citizens of Auckland were present. The proceedings at this committee, it should be mentioned—as an attempt has been made to decry both the General and those who would do him honor—were entirely impromptu, and without preconcert. A committee of gentlemen was appointed, to consider the whole matter, and it was subsequently decided that his Excellency should be publicly presented with an address from the citizens of Auckland, together with a sword and belt, as the most appropriate souvenir of the cordiality and good feeling, with which j the four years'residence of his Excellency inSiis

Province is associated. The following are the names of the committee who undertook to carry into effect the wishes of the meeting His Honor the Superintendent, Messrs. T. Macfarlane, W. Wyr.n, M.P.C., R. J. Creighton, M. G.A., R. Kidd, E. Isaacs, Major AValmesley, A. L. Thompson, W. Buckland, M.G.A., T. Scott, j. Craig, D. Nathan, id. Hardington, W. Morriu, 'i\ Macky, M. Somerville, G. AVebster, 31 P. 0., P. Dignan, James AVillinmson, M.G.A., W. C. Wilson, J. -VI- Clark, li. L. Bucholz, J. Graham, J. Smart, W. Swauson M.P.C., J. Cadman M.P.C., B. AV. Gee, R. Darby, Robert Robertson, Thomas

Craig. Oil the following Friday, the 21st ult., the committee convened a public meeting of the citizens of Auckland, which was very numerously attended, and to whieh the address to bo presented to General Cameron, was submitted, and was by it adopted. .ft was at the same time determined that a public subscription should be raised for the purchase of a sword. The subscription lists were opened at once and readily responded to. It had been thought probable that the- General would leave New Zealand by the Princc Alfred hut a deputation which waited upon his Excellency to apprise him of the proceedings that had _ been taken, and to request his acceptance, ot the public compliment contemplated, put this matter beyond doubt. Only a week was left to make anv arrangements that might be thought, necessary, but the result has shown that tho public took the matter pretty much into their own hand, and showed their esteem in their own way, so that any arrangements that could have been made beyond the provision of suitable accommodation and appropriateness of placc were purely supererrogatoiy. All that was decided was that the Albert Barracks was the place where the address would be most appropriatelypresented, and there a platform was erected and scats provided for a number of ladies, who may always be expected to grace such an occasion. Kverything else was left absolutely !.o the good taste, good feeling, and self-discipline of the multitude.

Yesterday, therefore, was the day on which the Prince Alfred was to proceed to Sydney with the mails, and as the General with hisfamily and personal stall' were to be passengers in her, the whole of the citizens of Auckland turned out. —it is no exaggeration to say, man, woman, and child —to give Sir Duncan Cameron a hearty although a parting cheer. The morning opened cloudy and uninviting, but from the suburbs on the high ground surrounding the !",t v. it was observed that there was almost anyamountof bunting wavingbothon land and afloat. The large ships in the harbour were dressed i'rom tafl'rail to truck on the maintop, and thence along the boom and jib-lines to the very martingale.' Of these, the most conspicuous were the Lord Ashley steamer, the .Resolute, the Bombay, John Duncan, Ulcoats, Winterthur, Balaclava, Bella Mary, all ships of large tonnage, and most of them from Londou. The smaller craft too flaunted flags, some of them making a very pretty show; of these we may mention the Jvanhoe, the Little Fred, the li_illermont, and Sylph. Standing at tho junction of Wakefield and Grey-streets, and looking towards the Wharf along Queen-street the the roup d'wii was unusually brilliant. To begin upon the spot, the Army and Navy Hotel displayed nearly a score ot flags o! various colors and forms. 'The Union Jack and that modification of it known as the ' Kcd Ensign ' floated from the windows of most of the houses. _It had been previously announced by advertisement that the principal merchants and business people would close their stores, and this rule was rigidly observed. Front the roofs of many of the larger establishments hung flags, and in several 'places lines of flags were suspended across the streets combining every color in the rainbow and typ'fying almost every nationality under the sun. One of the conspicuous objects was the flagstaff which rises out of the cupola on the roof of the Herald office, on which the shipping signals are repeated from the North Shore. This was dressed with a profusion of vari-coiored bunting which, over-topping as it did the other buildings, looked exceedingly well. From the roof of the New Zealand Insurance Company at the corner of Shortland-street, a line of flags_ was thrown across the street to the roof ot Messrs. Harris and Turner's stores. This was done by the zeal of Captain Casey ; and Mr. Williams, the sail-maker, a little lower down, threw similar line of flags across the street to Mr. Burnside's store. Tho flagstaff of the Waitemala Hotel was covered with ensigns o every variety, that of Naval Volunteers floating from the mast-head. Mr. Scents threw a line of allied flags across Durham-street, Mr. E. Walters threw a very pretty arch of flowers and evergreens across the Karangahape iload, near the' General's house. In Shortland-street there were several decorations, the principal of which owed their arrangement to the skill and energy also of Captain Casey and Mr. Asher Asher. A line of flags was suspended from Mr. Steers' City Club to the roof of Messrs. Kussell "and Davy, the solicitors, and a similar, if we may so speak, bridge of colors from Hobson's store to the corner of High-street. In this street flags were also displayed in several windows, but in Princesstreet Mr. Nichol of the Masonic Hotel made a very handsome display, a string of flags of the largest size and richest color being thrown across from the roof of his establishment to the Bebast Motel opposite. It had been a marvel if this fair display, and the appearance of a warm sunshine, aided by the interest felt in the occasion, had not invited a great number of the people forth. Although it must be said that the warmth and brilliance of the sunshine was intermittent, still at an early hour persons wended their way down Queen-street to the Wharf, tliencc up Shortland-street or Symonds-street towards the Albert Barracks. The town assumed a holiday air, but it was impossible to converse with any one who had the public interest at heart or was acquainted with public affairs, who did not acknowledge that the occasion was as serious as it was interesting. Nor was the interest diminished by a few natives who stood.it different corners in groups, pipe in mouth, and "jubilant with excitement; whether at sight of so much gala or the thought that they were getting rid of a man who was as merciful as be was terrible to them, we cannot say.

At 11 o'clock a considerable concourse bad gathered in the square of the Albert Barracks. The arrangements here reflected the greatest credit upon those wno nad the direction of them. At one time there were at least three thousand people present, and there was not observable in any part of this dense crowd the slightest indication of disorder or inconvenience to any person. The raised platform on which the ceremony of presenting the iddress was to take place occupied the centre of the parade. Behind this, along the line of building, was a form, upon which the invalid soldiers wounded in the war were seated. These men afforded those present objects of interest while waiting for the arrival of tlie General. One hundred men of the Military Train, and thirty-live ofthe Koyal Kngineers, standing about two yards apart, enclosed a space round the platform, within which were seats provided for ladies who might wish to be present. Without this line was a considerable crowd, receiving every moment accession of numbers, until at last it increased to thatwehave already stated, although the assemblage but represented, one-half of those out for this occasion, of bidding farewell to the General.

At half-past eleven o'clock the sound of music heralded the approach of the organised benevolent societies of Auckland, who entered the barrack gates from Princes-street, headed by the Odd Fellows' band playing lively airs. At the same moment the excellent band of the 14th

Regiment, plaving'' Auld Lang Syne, at the head of a guard of honour, composed of men of tho 14th and 50th Regiments, with regimental colours, crossed the parade ground going to the wharf. Then came the Lodge " Loyal Good Intent " followed by the Lodge Fountain of Friendship' and the Parncll Lodge, and representative members of the Lodge Rose of Manakau with their handsome blue and yellow banners blazoned with the emblematic devices of the order and motto painted in scroll work, Amicitia, Amor, Veritas. The officers of the order, by whom the procession was marshalled, appeared at its head, viz.—Provincial G.M W. Lepine, Dep, 1 l'O. G.M.Leahy, Pro.C.S. J. Derrom (Auckland district) ;A. Fleming, IS'.G. ;0. Wright, V.G.; AA . Lepine, Sec.; the P.P.G.Ms. 0. .Robinson; 1Cole Place; P.P.D.G.Ms. Adams; W. Jamieson; P.Gs. Steel, Brimmer, I. Levy, Gee, Trays, Gaskin, Walker, F. Coombe, Holmes, Mullms, N.G. Fleming, V.G. Wright, P.V.G. Cox; >1 sc. Warren, P.S. Gallauglier, V.G. Anderson, \ .(jr. A. Taylor. Next came the Foresters, with, their banner of crimson and green, whose appearance gave a very pleasant and somewhat pictuiesque aspect. Their Chief Ranger and last- ohief Hanger, Mr. Alexander, in tunic of Lincoln o-reen velvet and buskins, green velvet cap and feather, his "quiver loaded with arrows armed with venatic spear, marched at their liead, preceded by a vanguard of Woodwards, bearing forest axes, and supported on either side by j AVoodwards, dressed in scarlet velvet tunics, bearing tho ensigns of the fraternity, viz , the " Lamb aud Flag, and the Clasped Hands" as emblem of unity. Immediately behind were the officers, Messrs. Auger and l;itt, S C.R. and Treasurer ; also the representatives of the Parnell Lodge, Messrs. Fricker (Treasurer), Carter (Secretary), and A. Pollock, (ben. AVoodward). After the Odd Fellows came the Eechabites, marshalled by their officers. All these societies were bedecked with the lull regalia of their respective orders, the variety of which lent an animated yet imposing aspect to the scene. The Odd Follows at oncc took up their position on the east side of the platform ; the Foresters held the opposite side, and the Recliabites occupied the rear just at the foot of the steps by which the General would ascend. Some time elapsed which was made to pass pleasantly by the Odd Fellows' band which continued to discourse some " excellent music in the wav of familiar Scotch and English airs. At a quarter to twelve o clock the Committee arrived on the ground, headed by Mr. Thomas Macfarlane and David Nathan, and followed by the other members in procession, viz. ; Messrs. AVynn, M.P.C'., AVebstcr, M.P.C., Cadman, M.P.C., AVilson, Craig, Thompson, Dignan, Smart, Mardington.Somerville,Mucky,E.lsaacs, Graham, Darby, Robertson, Ividd, &c. At this moment the spectacle that presented itself was exceedingly animated. A compact mass of about three thousand persons stood without the space appropriated tor ladies and the benevolent orders. A large number of soldiers were scattered about the ground who were however only in the capacity ot spectators, but they were not silent as to the (Teneral s merits cither as a captain in tne field or a " ruler of men."

At twelve o'clock, with unerring punctuality, a carriage and four, drawn b}' Mr. Hardington s splendid greys, drove up to the parade, in which were scatvd the General and his niece, Mrs. Leveson Gowcr, followed by nnother with two horses, in which were the officers of liis Excellency's staff. The General at once ascended the platform amidst loud and prolonged cheering. Tlio committee was already in waiting. The following is a list of the officers who were present attending Lieut.-General Sir D. A. Cameron, K. C. J3 : — Major Pitt, Assistant Military Secretary; Licut.-Colonel McNeill, V.0., A.D.C.; Lieut, St. Hill, A.D.C.; Colonel Carey, C.8., D.A.G.; Colonel Gamble, C.8., D Q.M.G. ; Dr. Mouat, C.8., V.C.; Colonel Williams, commanding 11.A. ; Colonel Mould, C.8., commanding KK. ; Colonel O Brien, M.T.; Major Baker, D.A.A.G.; Major Greaves, D. A.Q.M.G. ; Commissary-General Jones, C.B. ; Assistant Commissary - General Ibbetson ; Assistant Commissary-General Bartlett; ,J.O. Hamiey, Esq., U.S.; H. de Burgh Adams, Esq., P.P.: Dr. Maekinnon. 57th regiment, C.B. ; Dr. Gibb, D.I.G. There were also other officers of regiments and departments, as well as many others on leave in Auckland, who were present on the occasion.

When the cheering had subsided, which was not until several sections of the crowd had supplemented each other, the General took ofi his hat in acknowledgment. He then turned to the committee, to whom he also bowed his acknowledgments. Mr. Thomas Macfarlane stood forward, and, addressing the General, said: —" General Sir Duncan Cameron, the address which I now hold in my hand was agreed to by a public meeting of the citizens of Auckland, convened by a preliminary meeting of the merchants and others residing in the Province of Auckland, for the purpose of expressing their appreciation of your private and public worth. That meeting was presided over by his Honor the Superintendent of the Province. His Honor would have been here to-day to present this address, but he is a member of the House of Representatives, and his public duties required of him that he should be at Wellington to-day. In his stead the duty and honour of presenting to you this address has been conferred upon me by rny fellow-citizens." (Cheers.)

Mr. Macfarlane here read <he address, which, having concluded, he handed to General Cameron.

To LIKUTf.NANT-GKNKRAI. SIR DUNCAN* AI.KXANDEP. Cam kiion, K.C.Ii. Sin,—As Colonists of New Zealand we eaunot witness your departure from our shores without testifying our respect for your private character ancl our high sense of your public services. During your residence of more than four years in this Colony, as Commander of Her Majesty's Forces, we luive had many opportunities (It" tormina an estimato of your public and private worth. The entire time or your command may he said to have been spent in active service in the Hold ; and it affords us much gratification to express our high appreciation cf the groat skill and judgment with which you liavo conducted vory dilllcult military operations. Wc liavo been dooply impressed with your devotion to duty, as woll as your personal courage and soldier-liko bearing in times of extreme peril. While thus oxprossin'.; our reelings towards yourself we embrace the opportunity of acknowledging tho valuable services ronderod to the Colony by tho Ofllccrs aud mon of Ilor Majosty's Army uudor your command; and of t««tifying to the rriondly Toolings always subsisting betwoen the Imperial and Colonial Forces in tho Provinco of Axickhind. On behalf of tho Local Forces we cordially express our gratitudo for ycur recognition of their services, and for your not imposing 011 them more arduous duties than the exigencies of the times demanded. In bidding you farewell we desire to assure you that you will be held in grateful remembrance by tho inhabitants of this Province, aud as a memento of your conncction with tho Colon;- of Hew Zealand, wo have to request youv acceptance of a sword and belt, to bo procured in Loudon, on which the following inscription will be engraved " Presented to Lieuteuant-Ceneral Sir Duncan Alexandeb "Cameron. K C.8.. by tho Colonists of Now Zealand residing ■' iu the Province of Aucklaud, in tentimony of their appreciation "of his sjrviccs to tho Colony during the period of his command " of Her Majesty's I'orces in New Zealand. " Auckland, July 31st, 1965." Thomas JIAcrAULAXE, Chairman of Committee, On bohalf of the Colonists of New Zealand residing iu the Province of Aucklaud. His Excellency, amidst loud cheering, handed the address to one of his aides-de-camp, from whom he received the written reply which he had prepared, and read in a loud voice, so that almost every one in the dense crowd must have heard him, and with marksd emphasis upon several passages, as follows:—

Colonists of New Zealand residing i» the Pbovince of Auckland, I cannot nntl words to express all the gratitude I feel for tlio great honor you linve conferred on me by presenting mo with an Address, which assures me in terms so gratifying t at on my departure from this Colony, I carry with me tho esteem a d goodwill of so large a number of its inhabi ants. (Cheers.) Of my fur years' service in New Zealand, I have spent the greater part in tho rrovince of Auckland, which has been the th atroofthemost important operations of the war; and it is th rcfore, source of great satisfaction to me to hear that m'v conduct, private as well as public, is considered descrv.ug o* your commendation, and that my military scrvtcc are appreciated so highly by those who have had the best opportuuity of estimating their value. It would, however be presumptuous in me to claim any groat merit for the conduct, of the military operations which have been carried on under my command, the success or which : s chiefly due to tho bravery, endurance, and discipline of the troops whom it lias been my honor aud happiness to command. I rejoice, therefore, to know that their services are duly appreciated, and ia tlicir name I thank you for the manner m which you have acknowledge them in your Address. (Loud cheers) The conduct of the omcers and men r f tho Colonial Forces, who always cordially supported us, -ml often shared our dangers, has deserved and received my constant approval, and the friendly relations which have always subsisted between them and Her Majesty's troops, have proved highly conducive to th" goid of the public service. I have aiso to express my admiration of the p triotio zeal and a ncrity with which the offlccrs and men of the Auckland Volunteers and Militia answered to tho call of duty in times of groat emergency, and thus miterially aided the operations of the regular troops. (Cheers.) Nor can I i" justice omit to acknowledge tho valuable assistance received at the commencement and during tho most critical period of the war, from the Colonial Ministers then in olllce, who, I conceive, are entitled to the grant do of the Colony for the zeal, ability and faithfulness with which they discharged their onerous and responsible duties, under

I accept witli pleasure your appropriate gift of a sword, which will be highly valued by me and my family.

I now wish you a hearty farewell, and la doing so, I assure you, that while I live I shall never cease to take tho warmest interest i i the welfare and happiness of the Colonist < of Xew Zealand, and that I shall hear in lasting and grateful recollection, the uniform kindness and consideration which I have received from the Inhabitants of the l'rovin c of and which have more than compensated for tho cares and anxieties of a hisli and responsible command. D. A. Cameeox, Lt.-General. Auckland, Ist August, 18U3. The conclusion of the General's speech was greeted with loud cheers. When the cheering had ceased, Mr. Maefarlane demanded three cheers for her Most Gracious Majesty the Queen, whichelicitcd avociferous response. TheOddFellows' band playing the IN 1 ational Anthem. Three cheers were demanded for the General himself, which demand was heartily complied with, and Mr. T. Scott, to whom in this place we must acknowledge our indebtedness for his kindness and information, and who was indefatigable in his superintendence of the arrangements, not to be wanting in gallantry, demanded three hearty cheers for Mrs. Leveson Gower, which were given enthusiastically. Not perhaps the least loss that will be sustained b,\ Auckland society will bo the absence of this lady and her husband from the colon)-. Mrs. Gower has always taken a prominent part in promoting charitable undertakings, and Captain Gower has been popular as a patron of manly sport and exercise, not only with his brother officers but with the public. The reading of the address formed the really important business of the day ; and when this had been concluded the General took his seat in the carriage, and the procession re-formed in the same order as that in which it had arrived. A most extraordinary effect was produced by a sudden and rather heavy shower of rain, which came down just as the procession had formed The spectators gathered into so many solid squares, in which the elements were charged at the point of expanded umbrellas, and against which the extraordinary outworks called crinolines acted occasionally as a tour de force. But " .Jupiter Pluvius" was propitiated by the determination of the citizens to see the last of their favourite soldier, and again the services of Mr. Scott were brought into requisition, whose attentions were unremitting, walking beside the carriage from the barracks to the place of embarkation with unabated enthusiasm. The rain, if it was not continuous, certainly left plenty of mud behind it ; but nothing daunted, the procession —whose numbers had been reinforced from various streets debouching upon the line of route —proceeded somewhat slowly on its way towards Princes-street, down Shortland-street, into Queen-street, and to the Wharf.

THE LINE OF PROCESSION. The appearancc of the houses on either side of the streets through which the procession passed was exceedingly animated. The windows were for the most part occupied by ladies who manifested their sympathy and admiration for the General and his family in their own feminine and graceful manner. The buildings occupied by the offices of Superintendent and the Provincial Engineer, the balconies, windows, and verandahs, were crowded with gentlemen and ladies. The same may be said of the houses in Shortland-street. Even the empty houses and ruins of the late Q.C.E. had their occupants, and in Queen-street many adventurous persons got out on the roofs of the houses and cheered General Cameron in his progress towards the wharf.

THE ARCH. By the time the procession approached the wharf the sun had again partially shone out. A vast crowd had assembled at this point, as it afforded the amplest space with the least fear of a crush. This spot was probably selected for that reason—the same reason for which, in the metropolis of the old country, the people select Charing Cross to see a state procession to a Lord Mayor's banquet. A barrier was thrown across the triumphal arch, from which the police, twenty-six in number, under the co nmand of Mr. Commissioner Naughton, kept back the pressure of the crowd. This arch was certainly a great success. Its design was owing to the taste and skill of Messrs. Butt, Anderson, and Casey. In its construction it was simplicity itself, but for this very quality perhaps the more complete and effective. The desigu was a plain centre arch, with two side arches, of which the outline was furnished by a very simple scaffold - arrangement. Upon this was fastened boughs of native and other perennial shrubs, while over all waved large borders of the plume-like fern, the plant, of all others indigenous to New Zealand soil. Amidst these were acacia boughs whose yellow blossoms shone like the violet in the English glade from recesses of green and native foliage. At intervals were bunches of the trained crocus and from different parts hung the bell-shaped cups of the most brilliant of tropical flowers the lily, as it is called, of the Nile. This mass of deep green foliage was surmounted by an inscription in white letter on canvas, with a painted scarlet ground,by Messrs. Pond and Barrett. The words were " Honour to the Brave," in plain letters, and under this in a style of letter somewhat more florid, and of light blue colour, in ths midst of a yellow scroll work, " Farewell." Over the centre arch waved the Royal Standard, and over each of the others the Union Jack and Blue Ensign. "When it is considered that the wholeofthis was designed andconstructed within a space of twenty-four hours, the success was really surprising. Here was met the first and only obstruction by the crowd, and here the majority of the people had to say farewell to the General. His Excellency was at this point greeted with a long cheer, which ho acknowledged. The eagerness of the crowd to get on to the wharf was a difficulty with which the police had to deal, and it was a difficulty of considerable magnitude to be surmounted by great moderation and forbearance. On every side, however, the greatest good humour provailed. It had been most dangerous to nave allowed so great a multitude of people on tlie

wharf at one time, and. had any accident curred, the occasion would have ftirnisUj reason for lusting regret, instead of generl congratulation. " al

THE H'UAUF. The General's carriage having passed in, a Mn siderable number of persons who had eluded th vigilance of the police passed in also, and !, e J an episode occurred which had not been ami,, pated. 'The horses were unyoked from the ca r'. I riage aud a number of young men, m os .i"' * belonging 1° tlle shipping, several of Tvlion, f. was stated served under the General in the; forces, insisted upon drawing the; carriage u D ,, the steamer. Hie General Laving alighted from the carriage went on board the steamer and frr, B the quarter-deck again acknowledged the va! e . dictory greeting of the populace. The Guard of Plonor, which was furnished by the 14th and 50th regiments under the command of Mai.-r Paul, presented arras, and the baud of the k t . mer regiment, under its accomplished leader struck up "Home, Sweet Home," to which the shrill echo of the steam whistle for once fur nished a most expressive accompaniment.

ON BOAED. After a lapse of some ten minutes orders wer e given to let go the " stern lines," and now th» final leave-taking occurred. A large number of officers gathered round General Cameron and warmly shook him by the hand, a greeting which was returned with equal warmth and sin. cerity. The General then turned to several the Committee who passed him, and also shook hands with them, but we could not distinguish them in the pressure that took place. Several of the officers also took a very cordial farewell of their friends who had followed them on board Mr. Hardington, who was personally known to the General, was honoured by a special l eave , taking, and many of the officers distinguished him amongst others, and mutual farewells were exchanged. The steamer glided slowly from her moorings, swayed round and as slowly pro. eeeded down stream, followed immediately br the little steamers Waiteinata and Ballarat. in which a considerable number of persons had embarked.

THE DEPAIiTUEE. As the Prince Alfred passed the shipping several of them fired a salute. The lilcoats dipped her ensign, a compliment, which was acknowledged from the steamer. A salute of twelve guns was ft ed from the Britomari, and in less than half an hour the steamer had rounded the Heads and was out of sight, For several hours the streets were thronged with people returning from the wharf and the several points at which a good view of the departure of the General could be obtained. At Port Britomart point, a large assemblage of people had collected. The crew of H.U.S, Brisk, as the Prince Alfred passed her, manned the rigging. The whole affair was a complete success, and went off without a single unpleasant incident to alloy the pleasure—a melancholy one though it was—at the opportunity thus afforded for giving public recognition of the esteem in which *he late commander of Her Majesty's Forces in New Zealand was held, and gratitude, for the valuable public services which he had rendered in that capacity.—August 2.

CAMERON TESTIMONIAL COMMITTEE, The members of the Cameron Testimonial Committee dined together yesterday at the Auckland Hotel, a few hours after the departure of the gallant Lieuten ant-General. About forty gentlemen sat down to dinner, of whom not quite one-lialf were guests of the committee. The dinner was served in Mr. Vialou's usual good style, and both viands and beverages were much approved. Tho chair was occupied by Mr. Thomas Maefarlane, chairman of the committee. Mr. Patrick Dignan acted as chairmanThe Chaibman explained that the present meeting was an extemporized one, and that consequently there was no programme previously arranged. This circumstance, he hoped, ivould be accepted as a sufficient apology for any deviation from the regular order of toasts, which might accidentally be found. The chairman said at that advanced period of the day he would not detain them with any lengthened observations, As in duty bound tiiey would commence their proceedings by toasting, with all the honours, •' The health of her Majesty the Queen." (Cheers.) It did not require any words from him to raise her in their estimation, or to increase their loyalty and affection. (Loud cheers.) The Chairman then proposed the next toast, " The Priuce of Wales and the other members of the Koyal Family," -which was warmly received.

The Chairman said the next toast was one which he had much pleasure in proposing on that occasion. They had their own opinions in regard to the movements of some portions oi the army in New Zealand, but he believed as a general rule the character of the British army was still untarnished and unstained. (Cheers.) He would give The Army and Navy," and coupled with the toast the name of Mr. Bartlett. (Loud cheers.) Deputy-Assistant-Commissary-General Bartlett responded in suitable terms for the honour conferred upon him, and the hearty reception which the toast had received. Captain Spain, 1i.T.0., also returned thanks on behalf of the navy. The Chairman said the next toast he propose for their acceptance, was that of " His Excellency Sir George Grey, the representative of her Majesty in this colony." He was aware that there were a difference of opinion ic regard to some portions of his policy (hear); but lie belived that there was little difference of opinion in regard to the intention of his Hlxcellency- He believed Sir George Grey meant to do well to the fullest of his wisdom and knowledge. (Hear, and cries of " Question.") He was the representative of her Majesty, and, as such, he was deserving of honour and respect; and, especiaiij on an occasion of that kind, when they were met to do honour to the Commander-in-chief of l> cr Majesty's forccs. He would, therefore, ask them to dedicate a toast to his Excellency Sir George Grey, as the representative of her Majest). (Cheers, and cries of " One more trip to tlio Hawau.") The Chairman, having called for a bumper, said ho was about to propose what might he emphatically called the toast of the day —that o Lieutenant-General Sir Duncan Cameron. (Cheers.) The readiness with which the company received the proposal was an evidence 01 the estimation in which they held the gailant General. (Cheers.) He thought it would aug ll ' ill, if in an enlightened community like tao.-e assembled, that such a man as Lieut.-Geuera Cameron, who had sojourned among them jor four years, should go away without eheitinS the very warmest response from every coloni? in New Zealand. (Loud chee-s.) chairman) had already had his say in regaru to the proceedings of the General, and he it would not be good taste on his part to at any greater length as to the General s character, but he might say that Sir Panraa Camerou was really a noble-hearted fellow—" (cheers) —a gallant general, and a fliaii thoroughly to be trusted. (Loud He would not say one thing that day, and retract it the next. Nor was there any eqiuvoMtion in his character. He was thoroughly upright in purpose, and thoroug* } straightforward in action. (Loud Cheejj'l He could not help congratulating company upon the success which had tended the demonstration that day. Ho thouß' the committee were deserving of great ere 1 for the successful way in which the proceedings had leen brought to a close ; an ' lie also thought they would be able to s en _ home such a sum for the presentation swora awould evince their respect for tlae General;

l,e a credit to themselves, (Hear ) Having jcj.- these observations, he would ask them to ilritik with three times three, " I lie health of Lieutenant-General Sir Duncan Cameron." Tin' toast was received with every demons(ra r ion ot approval. j| r _ 1H: 81-koii Atums, Purveyor to the JVivs. being loudly called upon, rose to respond aui'id much cheering. He said he felt much tiui'T'-'d at being called upon to respond to the of l.ieutcnant-Goneral Cameron, but be lid <o witli much pleasure, inasmuch as the galhntGencral was not present to do so for himself I' o '' '' suro Hiat anything he would say could not increase their estimation of the General er set forth the feelings, of gratitude he entertained towards them. They had all heard that day from the <. eneral's own lips his own impression of the kindness ot the people of Auckland. (Cheers.) He would embrace that opportunity of expressing to them Genera! Cameron's hearty thanks for the enthusiastic manner in which they had drunk his health He (Mr. Pe Burgh Adams) had experiiuuvd during General Cameron's command a considerable amount of kindness from him. in addition to which he might say he owed his advancement in the service to bis recommendation and the present appoint me-jt which he then held. (Cheers.i He would take an early o-viertunity of intimating to the General the warmdi and enthusiasm with which his health had been received, which was only an additional proof of that feeling which was demonstrated in the barracks that forenoon, when every one present erected him with a hearty cheer. (Loud cheers.i He believed there was not a person present in that vast assemblage who did not feel, when he left, that he regretted Sir Duncan Cameron > departure. (Hear, hear.) As far a s the inhabitants of the Province were eonconcerned. he felt convinced that the General, from expressions which he had liecrd from his aides-de-camp, would remember with fondness his stav in that Province (cheers.) lie (Mr. I'. I!. AMv.s not sn'iiciently versed in returning thanks for so eminent a personage as Lieut.General Cameron to do so as he could wish : but iti his name he again thanked them heartily and siacerelv for the kind sentiments they had expressed towards hi :: (loud cheers.) I'he Vice-Chairman proposed the next toast. He said thev had cordially drank the health of one who had fought their battles nobly for them, and whom they had that day honoured (cheers. 1 He would provose for their acceptance the health of a gentleman who was then engaged in fighting their political battles in the South —" The "Health of his Honor the Superintendent. Kobert Graham, Ksq.'' (Cheers.)

Air. Wyn>". in answer to the calls of the company. responded. He had been rather unexpectedly called upon to respond to the toa=t.but. nevertheless, he did so with great pleasure. (Cheers.i How hi< name had been called upon, he could not pretend to say ; but it would be foil" for him to abstain from saying that his Honour the Superintendent and himself had held a position antagonistic to each other. He would, however, say of his Honour that he believed there tv;i< not personally a man ot more honest purpose than that gentleman in the Province of Auckland. 'Cheers.) He spoke what he knew of his Honor the Superintendent. Whatever led to any difference cf opinion between his Honor and others it was not for him tosav; but he did know from experience that no man had ever administered his public duties •with more honesty of purpose than 31r. Eobert Graham. I Loud cheers.) Having been in connection with the Superintendent for a great length of time in the discharge of his public duties, he felt very great pleasure in returning thanks to those assembled for the cordial manner in which they had drunk his health. (Loud cheers.)

Mr. Webster proposed the next toast '"The Citr Board of Commissioners." Although as a public bodv thev had not been highly spoken of. vet tl'«y had discharged their duties to the best of ilieir ability. The Board had not power to do more than they had done. He should much like to see a corporation in an important citv like Auckland. The City Board with the small means at their disposal, could not do more for the benefit of the city than they had done. (Hear). The city required something better than a mere Board of Commissioners; they wanted a corporation, and the city placed in a better position than at present. I nder the present circumstances he had much pleasure in proposing the health of the City Board ot i ommissioners, c-oupled with the name of their worthy Chairman, Mr. Bain. (The toast was warmly received.) Mr. Bai>: responded, in suitable terms. He said the members of the City Board would have srladlv joined in the demonstrations ot that dav. if they had thought they could have added additional eclat to the proceedings in honour to such a name as Sir Duncan Cameron. He was sure tiie members of the Board would reciprocate the kind feeling shown towards them by the company. The Board had difficulties tooyereome, which he had no idea of until he joined the Board. They had spent £23,000 last year, and thev were at present £1,300 in debt. There was a sum. of £1.600 ot rates due the Board, and yet every person expected that a good road should be made to his door. (Cheers.) As far as the Board was concerned, they _ would simply do the best they could with the means at their disposal. It was like throwing money into the sea to expend it on the streets at present. They would all agree that to commence any work at that time would be out of place. (H ear.) ith respect to that day s demonstration, he would say that those who thwarted the General —whoever they were, and whereverthey were, they did not want to refer to them particularly —had mistaken their man when they ihought that General Cameron was to be blotted out by a memorandum. (Cheers) Thev quite forgot that the man who led the 42nd Highlanders up the heights of Alma, under the scorching heat of a dav in September, and gave the .Russians for the first time a taste of British steel, that that man was General Cameron. (Cheers ) Alma and Sebastopol were on the colours of the 42nd Regiment, and so long as England could raise men to recruit her armies, and so long as the British nation existed, so long would those three names be associated together —(loud cheers) —notwithstanding the memorandum, or " memorandummies." (Laughter.) He thanked the South for that word. (Cheers.) So long as those two names would remain on the colours of the -12nd regiment, the name of Sir Duncan Cameron would be remembered. (Cheers.) He again thanked them for the honor they had conferred up >n him and the City Board. (Loud cheers.)

3lr. Appletox, IVL T., rose with very great pleasure to propose ior their acceptance, the health of a noble body of men, who had rendered gallant services to the army—he meant "The Colonial Forces." (Cheers.) Thev deserved the highest praise and honour. Their conuuet throughout the war was well known to all present, and he knew the/ would not be backward in drinking tliuir health when he coupled with the toast the health of their worthy friend, Mr. Hardingtou. (Cheers.) Captain llardingtox suitably responded, and referred to the noble services rendered bv their brave commander, the late Colonel IN ison. Sir. Machatt:e briefly proposed " The health of the Provincial Council." -Mr. \\ yxN responded. It was not for him to go into any question of politics, nor to refer to the action the .Provincial Council had taken ia regard to various mattei'3 brought before them. All he could say was that he believed to the utmost extent of their experience they had done everything for the best; but that it met with the approval of the public or not was another matter. He believed they were actuated by right principles, and guided by wliat

they believed to lie justice. They would be shortly subjected to another tribunal, which would test those who should try again for the honor, 11s to the manner in which they had endeavoured to perforin their duty. (Cheers.) Mr. r. Scott said the toast which lie was allowed to propose would, he felt sure, meet with their cordial approbation, lie had very great pleasure in proposing " The health of Mr. Commissioner -Naughton." (Cheers.) That gentleman had ever been most willing to assist the citizens in any public demonstration. 1 hey had that day received a great deal of assistance ti'om T\lr. :">nughton and the police in keeping order in the barracks and elsewhere. Without further preface he would ask the company to drink the toast with all the honours. (The toast was most cordially received.) Mr. Nauoiiton* responded in appropriate terms. It afforded liini groat pleasure to be of any service to the citizens, and especially on an occasion like that in which he and his force took part that day. He felt grateful that their services had been appreciated. .It was the duty of the police to be present at such public- demonstrations; and lie hoped that on any future occasion, when their services were required, they would not be found wanting. (Loud cheers.) Mr. Gkk proposed the health of those public bodies who rendered their services and contributed so much to the success of the day's proceedings. which was warmlv received. Mr. AY YXX proposed "" The Press," and alluded to the valuable services it had rendered, especially on that day. in neutralising the effect of the covert attempt made to cast: aspersions on the public conduct of Sir Duncan Cameron. The toast was responded to by the representative present. Mr. Thomson briefly proposed " The health of the Sub-Committee," who had carried out the details of the arrangements, and constructed the triumphal arch, which was an attractive feature in the demonstrations, (i beers.) Mr. Stki'iikxsox returned thanks in suitable terms. Mr. Wvxx proposed the chairman of the meeting. He was desirous of affording to the members of the committee an opportunity of expressing their sentiments of obligation to the Chairman But for him. the demonstration to General Cameron would not have proved the perfect success that it has been.

The Chaikmax, in reply, expressed his sense of the ability ami earnestness with which his efforts had been seconded. The labours of the committee, he remarked, are not yet ended ; but they would j;o on. he felt assured, to finish their work satisfactorily. .Vr. A. L. Tiiom-ox proposed the health of the Honorary Secivtarv. upon whom much work had devolved. which had been well performed. He could assure that gentleman that his services were highly appreciated by the committee. Mr. kj m> disclaimed the merit of being the most hardworking member of the Committee, lie w:i- not in that respect, either first, or second, or third. J lis position entitled him to say ihat the members of the Committee in general, worked steadily and well—while some of them exerted themselves to a remarkable degree; and ihey ali found a hearty response 011 the part of every portion of the public. Mr. .Tons Ghaham proposed the health of the Vice-Chairman. .Mr. I'ignan. That toast he said, was one which had been accidently misplaced in the list. 31 r. Phjnax, in his reply, eulogised the conduct of General Cameron in going in to compier the enemy, but not to torture or exterminate the Maori tribes. Those tribes, many of them at least, are now our enemies ; bu.. old colonists like himself, cannot forget that tile Maoris were once our friends, and had helped materially the growth of the infant colony. (Applause.) -M r. Wvx.v proposed the health ot the liarrack Sub-committee. Messrs. T. >cott. and 15. W. Gee, to which those gentlemen briefly responded. The proceedings, of what was an exceedingly agreeable reuuion. were terminated by the company singing the .National Anthem.- —August —.

THE GEN.'-'HAL'S F AIIF. WELL TO THE T.RO! 'PS.

Till- following general orders, issued irom Head Quarters yesterday to cjnvey to the troops of all arms now serving in .Vow Zealand the merited approbation of their late commander : — [GESEIi.VL 0KD t 'lts ] Head Quarter.-, Auckland, Ist August, 1800. 1. On relinquishing the command in Xciv Zealand, the Lieut naiit-Oeu-.-ral de.-ires to express to the troops he has long comman ied his entire satisfaction with their conduct, una with the high state of discipline maintained throughout the war 2. The Licu'enan l -G-eiie" ai thuiiks officers, noncommissioned officers arid men "f all arms who have served under him for the cheerful alacrity witli which they have per r o;med die harrassing and arduous duties* required of them, and for the gallantry which they have displayed on ah occasions when engaged with the enemy. 3. His thanks are particularly due to general and other officers commanding districts, to oiii'-ers commanding corps, and to ilea is of departments for the cordul support and assistance they bee allorded him its well as tor the assiduity with whi'-kthey have conducted their various duties. The Lieutenant-General has o'"ten had occasion to remit to H. H .11. the Field Marshal commanding-in-chi.-f the names of individuals who have distinguished themselves, and it uflbrdshim thegreutest gratilic .tion further to bring to tli- notice of His Hoyal Highness t.is appreciation of the general good conduct of the wh -I.' force, lie now takes leave of the troops and assures them lint he will always continue to feel the deepest i terest in the welfare of those to whom energy, discipline, and gallantry lie is .so much indebted. By command.