CANADIANS IN CAMP.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LI, Issue 15750, 27 October 1914, Page 9

CANADIANS IN CAMP.

GENUINE COWBOYS.

EAGER FOR THE FRONT.

An immense camp lias boon prepared for the Canadian troops in England. It lies in the midst of wide rolling plains, reminding them of parts of Western Canada. The nearest town is 12 miles off. Thus there is little distraction from the steady purpose of preparing for war. At present the men live in huts constructed of wood and canvas. These were built as rapidly as possible. Already the cold is bieak on the lonely uplands.

The fine condition of the horses has excited great attention. These animals, which are mostly from the western plains, shied violently 'at the motor-cars. The cavalry regiments include genuine cowboys and broncho-busters, who showed great prowess with the fresh horses in the camp. Many nationalities are represented in the contingent. Russian, Servian, and .Montenegrin reservists, who were prevented from joining their own armies, have come over, and also French and Belgians, but the majority Canadian born. The camp'is strictly teetotal, the only licensed house in" the neighbourhood having been taken over as the official headquarters. Field telephones are connected with different parts of the camp. [ Hie men are determined to be ready to go to the front in less than two months. Owing to tjie number of ex-service men of the Canadian militia their aspirations j are likely to be realised. Tremendous enthusiasm marked the welcome given at Plymouth to the contingent. The inhabitants were unaware that the transports were coming. The secret had been well kept. Although the first ship was sighted early in the morning, none were allowed to pass without a. popular demonstration. The news spread like a prairie fire. The people of the Three Towns (Plymouth. Devonport, and Saltash) thronged, the public frontages of the great waterway leading to Devonport dockyard, and throughout the. whole of the day they gazed in admiration as the transports steadily steamed past to their moorings. They waved hats and flags, and cheered with increasing enthusiasm. The troops crowded the decks and clung to rigging, crows' nests, and mastheads, cheering and waving hats. The flotilla did not have a good crossing, being buffeted by autumn gales in the 19 days' voyage from Quebec. The men were cheerful in their crowded quarters, and passed the evenings singing and dancing. The debarkation commenced in the evening, hundreds of special trains conveying the men to the encampment. Bands and pipers headed the regiments as they marched through the streets. The appearance of the men was excellent. The rough riders were picturesquely garbed, wearing their wideawake hats, and two revolvers in their belts. Many of the men had South African medals. The spirit of camaraderie between the officers and men aroused wonder, as they left the deck for shore leave arm in arm.