THE SIXTH CONTINGENT.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 1510, 7 February 1901, Page 15

THE SIXTH CONTINGENT.

FAREWELL AT AUCKLAND. AUCKLAND, January 30. The Auckland section of the Sixth Contingent received an enthusiastic farewell to-day, though, owing to the Queen’3 death, the ceremony was curtailed to a few speeches in the vicinity of the drillshed. Though not a holiday, an enormous crowd gathered in this neaghboiuhood. The'whole march was witnessed ky a vast number of spectators, and the troops heartily cheered as they passed along. •„ . " The Southern section met the Aucklanders at the drillshed. The speakers were the Hon. J. McGowan, the Mayor (Mr i>. Goldie), arid Rabbi Goldstcdn secretary of the; Send-off Committee). All spoke in patriotic terms, sympathetic reference being made to the death cf the Queeh, owing to which sad event much of the original programme for the send off had been abandoned. Mr McGowan read the following telegram from the Governor :—“On the eve of your departure" for South Africa to serve his Majesty* I pray that the Almighty may grant you a safe passage, a successful mission and a happy return. I feel sure the Sixth Contingent will ever uphold the dignity of the King and the-honour of his Empire. ; Our eyes will be on your movoments and our hearts on your success.” w- •/ . The Premier cabled as follows: vey to officers and men of the departing contingent my hearty and sincere gooc£ wishes for their (welfare. I feel-sure they will acquit themselves in a manner worthy those of our contingents who are now in South Africa, and bring home laurels to our colony. „ . brive them .my best wishes and wish them God speed?’ ." The ceremony closed with the National Anthem and hearty cheers." The contingent embarked about five p.m.* the Cornwall being followed down the harbour by a number of yachts and other vessels. ..•; - ■ .... . •'..:/ 4