FUNERAL OF DR STUART.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 1163, 15 June 1894, Page 37

FUNERAL OF DR STUART.

Dunedin, May 16/ A close holiday was observed this afternoon on the occasion of the funeral of the late Rev Dr Stuart. The funeral was attended by a most representative gathering 1 . Before 2 o'clock George and Princes streets were lined with people, women predominating. Every balcony and window along the line of route was occupied, and the lowest calculation of the number in the street is 15,000, while some give it as at least 20,000. The hills near the cemetery were also occupied by large crowds. The crowds in the Octagon, Customhouse square and about the Post Office formed a sight seldom witnessed. The scene in Knox Church was impressive. Crowds entered and passing along by the pulpit took a last look at the departed pastor. The coffin, pulpit railing, and gallery front were covered with wreaths and floral designs. In the service at the church representatives were present from every denomination in the city. The Rev Borrie read the Scripture selections ; the Rev Todd, Oamaru, offered prayer, and the Rev Dr Watt delivered the address. Shortly after two the Engineers* Band commenced playing the " Dead March." They were followed by the Industrial School children, the Knox Sunday School, and the Bible class; then came six pipers and three drummers playing a lament, following by the Gaelic Society. The hearse came next with pallbearers and near relatives on each side,

flanked by a detachment of Highland Bifles; then came tho horso and buggy presented to tho Doctor by his congregation, tho buggy laden with wreaths; the Knox Church congregation, tho Presbytery and visiting clorgy and clorgymen of every denomination came next, followed by legislators, tho members of the various public and local bodies, members of the Salvation Army, University students, High School boys, Burns Club, Ordnance Band, North Dunedin Rifles, High School boys, school children (many of whom carried wreaths), and the general public. The Hon J. G. Ward (representing the Government), Dr Nevill (the Anglican Bishop), Bishop Moran's representative, and the Mayor and councillors of Dunedin occupied leading carriages. One of the most unique features was the presence of a number of Chinese and also Assyrians. Estimates as to tho numbors in procession vary, but it is generally put down at 5000. It took 30 minutes passing a given point. The coffin was carried to the grave by six members of tho Highland Rifles. The Rov. A. Cameron read portions of the Scripture, the Rev. W. Will engaged in prayer, and the Rev. R. Sutherland pronounced the benediction. Beautiful wreaths were sent by the Girls' High School and Dominican Convent, Mr Justice Williams, the First Church office-bearers, 1.0.0. F., and all tho city schools.