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Sun (Christchurch), Volume I, Issue 174, 28 August 1914, Page 4

A suggestion, which Ave thoroughly endorse and commend to our readers, is contained in a letter'which we publish to-day. Briefly, it is suggested that the citizens of Christchureh should make an opportunity some time next week to give a public farewell function to the Canterbury contingent of the (New Zealand Expeditionary Force, which is due to leave for the front very soon. The proposal of our correspondent presents no serious difficulties. It should be a simple matter, if the military authorities can be persuaded to fall into line, and the general public takes hold of the idea with any enthusiasm, to arrange such an evening in the King Edward Barracks, when the Canterbury representatives, who have responded to che call so spontaneously, would be accorded an appropriate send-off. The men are making considerable sacrifices in order to take part in a struggle that concerns the welfare; of New Zealand as well as of the Mother Country. They are going away to assist in the niaintei.ance of an Imperial supremacy that must not be broken down if the oversea, dominions, and the world in general, are to remain free of German swashbucklerism. They are essential units in the defence of I.lk* peace and stability of the world, and in return for this honourable service it would he a small thing for the citizens of this town to eiiteit.ai nt hem before they depart for Kurope. Much a function as is suggested would make. a welcome break in the routine of lift* in cimip, and tend to send I lie | roups awa s in the best of spirits, furl her, ii would demonstrate to the guestn that the citizens took a proper pride in their representatives, even as was done during the Mouth African war, when enthusiastic thousands sped the departing contingents, His Worship the Mayor, probably the busiest man in Ghristchurcli today, has found time to give the proposition his cordial approval, and we trust, that Saturdav's meeting will evoke more than the amount of enthusiasm necessary to make the occasion a red-letter day in the history of the Canterbury contingent of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. I