A CHEERING GOOD-BYE.

New Zealand Times, Volume LXXI, Issue 3955, 22 January 1900, Page 6

A CHEERING GOOD-BYE.

As the flotilla passed Point Halswcll bugle calls were exchanged between the Monowai and the Waiwera. There was-cheering on cvery_ vessel, and the interchanges of compliments between the troopship and the Tutanokai were particularly enthusiastic. The Government steamer had the advantage or being within easy hailing distance of the Waiwera. At a quarter to five rock-] ets and detonators were discharged with resounding reports. When the entrance was opened, the Waiwera. slowed down to allow those aboard of her who wore for the shore to get into the) launch Snavk. This enabled the Tu-I

tanekai to draw up close to the transport on the latter’s port side. For a time all the steamers went dead slow. A party of the contingent danced a combination of haka and physical drill, inuoL to the amusement of those near enough to see the performance. Words of farewell were shouted by orators on the Tutanekai, and acknowledged by the departing Volunteers with cheers and the singing of "Soldiers of the Queen” and “.Sons of the Sea." At five o’clock the VVaiwera whistled in an emotional steamy roar to sav that she must bo moving on, and all” the escorting steamers chorused their good-byes in a medley oi shrieking syrens and screaming whistles. Handkerchiefs were waved for the last time, and concluding cheers w'ere given while the contingent sang “Rule Britannia." Tiie Monowai turned ior home at ten minutes past five, and the other steamers of the escort followed her example, she and they dipping their ensigns to the transport as a final farewell. The time for parting had come, and the Waiwera faced the open sea alone. Flags on the staff at the outer signal station wished her “Ail revoir” as she cleared the heads for South Africa with the members of the New Zealand contingent.