THE SQUADRON.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXV, Issue 9249, 31 December 1888, Page 5

THE SQUADRON.

Captain W. F. S. Mann, the popular commander of H.Ms. Rapid, having been appointed to take charge of the Victorian navy, will shortly be replaced on the Rapid by Captain H. Castle, R.N., as notified in our cablegrams on Saturday. Since he has been on commission on the Rapid since April last, Captain Mann has made himself very much liked and respected by his oncers and crew, and his departure will be viewed by them with much regret. In his new position his connection with the Imperial navy does not altogether cease, and he still retains rank as post-captain. Captain Castle is spoken of as a very efficient officer, and was recently in command of H.M.s. Audacious.

The opportunity of inspecting H.M.s. Orlando, kindly afforded to the public by the throwing open of that vessel yesterday afternoon,was very eagerly taken advantage of by a great crowd of visitors. From two o'clock till five the Devonport Ferry Co. had three of their vessels constantly running backward and forward, while the s.s. Vivid and City of Cork were also largely patronised. It is estimated that fully 0000 persons were on board during the afternoon. THE ADMIRAL'S MOVEMENTS. Admiral Fairfax ana a number of officers went on a picnic on Saturday to the Nihotupu Falls, a very pleasant day was spent, and the party returned in the evening much pleased with their outing. This is the third trip which the Admiral has made to these Falls, so it is evident he is greatly pleased with the scenery. To-day at eleven o'clock Paora Tuhaere, of Orakei, the well-known Maori chief, will pay a formal visit to the Admiral on board the flagship Orlando. Paul will come up from Orakei in a war canoe with its complement of swarthy paddlers. He and his associates will be gratified with a sight of the latest type of the British cruiser, and the Oriandos will also see something of Maori customs and manners.