THE INDIAN CONTINGENT.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 11580, 19 February 1901, Page 5

THE INDIAN CONTINGENT.

The members of the Indian Contingent ieturned to town by the train arriving from Rotorua early yesterday morning. In the afternoon a portion of them were driven out to the stud establishments of Mr. T'hos. Motrin and the Messrs. Nathan, Wellington Park and Sylvia Park, thoroughly enjoying the drive, and beiiit, much pleased with the many fin. thoroughbred horses that were brought under theii notice at both places. Others again availed themselves of the invitation extended them by Mr. J. H. Witheford, M.H.R., who had chartered the p.s. Eagle in order to give the Indians a run up the" harbour, and take them across tc his private residence at Northcote. Mr. Frank Dillingham, American Consul, and Mrs. Dillingham. were among those who accompanied the party, Captain Morrow aiso going, and kindly acting as interpreter On landing the troops were taken to Mr. Withelord's fine orchard at Hellyer's Creek, where thev were allowed to treat themselves to fruit to their hearts' content, other refreshments also being provided by the host, who treated them with that hospitality for which he is noted. Hunter's Bras? Band accompanied the party, and provided enjoyable musical selections. Mr. Witheford had a carpenter on the ground, who nailed down 100 boxes of fruit, for the voyage of the Dalliousie, which were taken down to Bradney's launch, which was in attendance, and the fruit carried off to the Ea<de, which came round from ISorthcote to "Lucas' Creek for the party. Before the guests left the orchard, Major Morrow, 011 behalf of the contingent, expressed their gratitude to Mi. Whiteford for his thoughtful kindness to them and the pleasure he had given them by his hospitality. "When me steamer got back to the Queen-street Whail the contingent gave three cheers for Mr. Witheford, and Sergeant Shaik Ahmed, who could speak English, took occasion again to thank him for his extreme courtesy and hospitality. A number of the members o. the First Contingent were also the guests of Mr. Witheford, and enjoyed themselves immensely. . .. .. The Premier will leave in tiie Dalhousie with the Indian Contingent, at three clock this afternoon, lor Gisborne, and thence South. Gisborne, Monday. The Dalhousie, with the Indian troops, arrives here on Wednesday night. Jhe troops are to land 011 Thursday morning, and a. procession will be formed through the town to the recreation ground, where a large squad of Maori? will greet the visitors with hakas. The formal welcome will then lake place. The Indians'will be asked to give a display of horsemanship, tent-pegging, etc. They will be invited to the Turf Club's races in the afternoon.