A LAST FAREWELL

Sun (Christchurch), Volume I, Issue 244, 18 November 1914, Page 8

A LAST FAREWELL

EARL ROBERTS AND IRISH GUARDS.

"IF THE NATION HAD

LISTENED."

"Times" and "Sydney Sun" Services.

LONDON, November 16

Lord Roberts, in saying farewell to the Irish Guards when they departed for the front, said: —"I am proud of being an Irishman, and |>roud of being Colonel of the Irish Guards. We are fighting in a good cause, for our country 's liberty, the preservation of our great Empire, and to prevent friendly nations from being crushed by a formidable and unscrupulous enemy. You are in God's hands. Trust Him and be of good courage. He will help and strengthen you. I pray God that I may live to welcome you returning covered with honour and glory." He then shook hands with every officer. Sir Evelyn Wood says that if the nation had listened to Lord Roberts the British war casualties might have been materially lessened.

Tributes to Lord Roberts are accompanied by comments that things are not going satisfactorily in raising recraits for the solvation of the British Empire. THE NESTOR OF THE ARMY. SOLDIER OF GREAT TALENT. "Timea" and "Sydney Sun" Services. (Received November 18, 8 a.m.) • LONDON, November 17.

" The Times's " military correspondent describes Lord Roberts as the ''Nestor" of the British . Army, possessed of a truly marvellous and unerring eye for troops and their disposition. He had talent for recognising at a glance every tactical advantage, his sagacity enabling him to perceive itiimediately the mistakes of the enemy. He practised successfully the enveloping attack, which was subsequently adopted by Germany, and consequently the Germans claimed him as one of their school. '

HIS LAST BESTING PLACE. (Received November 18, 8.45 a.m.) LONDON, November 17. Lady Roberts has consented to her late husband's burial in Saint Paul's Cathedral.