THE MIDDLESEX VOLUNTEER ARTILLERY.

Colonist, Volume III, Issue 306, 25 September 1860, Page 4

THE MIDDLESEX VOLUNTEER ARTILLERY.

We have to note the'formation of another corps in London—" Volunteer Artillery," which originated about six weeks since. Considering the many rifle regiments existing in the metropolis, the artillery has found great favor among the inhabitants; and, in fact, the numbers already joined are surprising. The strength of this arm of the service bids fair (from',the: spirited way in which the organisation is conducted) to number a-body of gentlemen fully equal to the London brigade. Several officers of her Majesty's servibe we active members of the commute, among whom we note Major? General Griffin, Royal Artillery—a brave old soldier; Major Stevens, Madras Artil'ery; JS. Elram, Esq., formerly of the Engineers; J. M'Grigor Croft, Esq, M.D., late H.M. Ceylon Rifles in China and Ceylon, in oonnectio* with several highly influential private gentlemen. JV H. Greatrex, the hon. secretary, is indefatigable, affording all information to parties wishing to join; '' ■■■■■"'■"■',"'■'';' .• ''\'":"" '''.. ■''.' \ It is satisfactory to know that the Right Hon. Sidney Herbert, M.P., Secretary of State for War, is highly pleased with the movement, and every assistance is afforded for the japicl completion of this invaluable arm of the service. \ The vast metropolis is the envy of the world —its riches untold; and now that we find that Armstrong and Whitwortb guns are to fight future battles, the brave citizens of London are riot to be behind the movement, and, ready to protect their homes against all invaders. . j : Her gracious Majesty whose countenance of the volunteer movement is top well known, baa approved, through the lord lieutenant of the county, the designation as the " Ist Middlesex. Volunteer Artillery j" and the courteouaattentipn of the Marquis of Salisbury on the formation of the corps has materially assisted the rapid progress made. It is hoped to number six companies of' eighty men each in a short time, and'eyety prospect of doubling ihe batteries before many months. f < ... The members are practising infantry movements at present, and are to have the rifle carbine, on perfect completion of which, they will proceed to learn under the adjutant, assisted :by Royal Artillery sergeants provided by Government, the > great gun exercise. At the Wellington barracks, St. James's Park, the Government have already placed (Sahnon at their disposal, but light field : pieces the corps will ultimately drill with, .;".._■ ■■■ { rThe dress of the on^W\and':.p.rivaies.';w;eiceedingly handsome—*blue with/silver lace. It is reported by the West-end -".tailors, a 'handsomer or neater uniform has not been .made. Private's dress, complete, "consisting qi blue olotb tunic, with red cuff and collar, laced with silver; white enamelled leather cross-belt, with black pouch, ornamented with silver gun ;■ white waist-belt artillery /volunteers., .Trousers, blue, with broad red stripe; cap, Wue, with scarlet barid> silver, edging, and acorn;, busby. Complete:fu!l dress, price seven-and-arhalf guineas. best cloth—in fact, many ; gentlemen of rifle corps are astonished at the cheapness of the dress, but the clothing committee have profited by the experience, of. others;who have paid twice the sum. A short steel scabbard sword is to be worn on: duty. ; •■ ■•■■ : '■- [ , Gentlemen desirous of joining are introduied, and balloted for; a week elapsing' for all inquiries before admission; this system will, keep the corps, select, the benefit of which will be 6bvtous bye-and'hye^Folunteersl ScwictGazette.