THE THIRD CONTINGENT.

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume XXVII, Issue 8760, 26 February 1900, Page 3

THE THIRD CONTINGENT.

THE GOVERNOR'S FAREWELL SPEECH. Lord Ranfurly said farewell to the third contingent in the following address : — • " Mr Mayor, ladies and gentlemen, — We are met together to bid farewell to the third contingent despatched by this colony to uphold the rights of Great Britain in South Africa. In a moment of heartfelt anxiety, we feel the utmost pride and pleasure when we see the many brave and five young men, tho flower of the land— (hear, hear)— who are ready, yes, and more than ready, lo leave their homes and cross the seas to a distant land, in order to vindicate the honor of England and to champion the cause in the Transvaal of their fellow-subjects. (Cheers.) Their patriotic action is not without sacrifice, both on their part and on that of their relations and friends, who have to tear the anxiety of their absence. We all sympathise deeply with those who have to part with their dear ones, but we remember that we are all citizens of a country, and all come of a great race, which has spread itself over a large portion of the world, by virtue of their indomitable pluck an:) endurance— (cheers)— and we must uphold our glorious traditions at auy personal sacrifice, even of our dearest and best. (Hear, hear.) The generous enthusiasm which has equipped and sent out this third contingont is beyond all praise. It proves that the old British spirit is still present with us, and as long as that spirit animates us, England need tear nothing. That spirit has been abundantly shown already in this way by the valor and endurance of our men, and the splendid gallantry of our officers, and how admirably they have displayed the best qualities of the soldier is apparent to all. (Loud cheers.) This is the first time in history that the Canadians, New Zealanders, Australians, and Cape Colonists and others stand sHe by side with their comrades of the Imperial troops. (Applause.) One race under one Queen, fighting in Freedom's cause ; may the God ot their fathers stand by them and give them the victory. (Great cheering.)