OFF TO THE FRONT.

Temuka Leader, Issue 7523, 4 January 1917, Page 2

OFF TO THE FRONT.

DEPARTURE OP BUGLER M. RICKUS. On Saturday evening Bugler J. M. Rickns left. Temuka for Wellington by the -1.30 train. A little procession was fumed at the Post Office, and preceded by Mr A. Cooper playing the bagpipes, marched to the railway station.

Just before the train left, the MayorAir A. Frew) gave a short address. Be said'they had gathered to farewell another soldier who was off to the front. From the beginning of the war the Muons had done their duty ;o the Empire well. (Applause). The Mayor then read a cable message fiom Bombardier Evans conveying Christmas greetings from the Temuka soldiers at the front, and his (the Mayor’s) reply, and went on to say that we had -‘live” men at the front, and " live ” men are still going, and he had every confidence that the Empire would come out victorious It was good to see how New Zealand youths had coraeTorward and taken their place in the fighting line (Applause). " The Rev. A, H. Norris being called on said Air James Rictus’ family had put up something very like a record, he had so many sons, grand-sons, and relatives lighting at the front. As to the son who was going he knew that he was taking with him Temuka’s very best wishes, and we all hope he will come back safely, when he will get the -welcome he deserves. (Applause). Mr Norris then called for three cheers far the Eiekus family, one of whom went with the first contingent, and others had been going ever since.

Hearty cheers were then given for the Bicivus family, and more lor the departing soldier. At the request of Mr Gunnion a party of Maori girls sang a pretty Maori song of farewell. Cheers wore then given for our soldier boys at the front, and friends had a few minutes to bid Bugler Piiclcus good-bye and good luck. _As the train steamed away he was given further hearty cheers. i