THE RIFLE AND CARBINE CHAMPIONS.

Timaru Herald, Volume XLVI, Issue 4185, 8 March 1888, Page 3

THE RIFLE AND CARBINE CHAMPIONS.

» THE WELCOME HOME. (Bsr Telegraph.) ! NAPIEB, Mahcii 7. The citizens of Napier gave a warm welcome to-night to Lieutcnent Boss, winner of thtf champion carbine cup and bolt, on his return from Oomaru. Tho nrtiilcry, rifles, navnls, and two companies of cadets received him as ik guard of honour at tho railway station. Tho major and many leading citizens wero on the platform us the train drew up, and tho mayor meds a brief speecli expreßsivo of tho pleasuro of tho townspeople ot lieutenant Boss having acquired thn belt us his own propevty by winning it three times. The volunteer companies, re-inforced by tho Nupicr and Spit fire brigades and tho Napior 1 firo police, formed up m order of procession, and with tho garrison band at tho head marched through tho principal streets of tho town to Lieutenant Ross' home. As every altcrnato man m tho proocsslon earriod either a torch or a coloured port-flro tho oft'ect of tho procossion was very fine, and it was I heightened by fireworks being discharged at intorviila along tho route. Lieutenant Roaa who was seated with tho mayor m a fourhoreo carriage near tho head of tho procession was much chcorcd by the immense concoureo of ei^hleeors who thronged tl|o streets. Later on tho champion was entertained at ft smoke concoi't at tho Gaiety Theatre, the proceedings being rcost enthusiastic throughout. WANChVN CJI, MAncit 7. Miijor Putnell, winner of tho ri(|o champion belt, was acoorded a publio welcomo to-night. In Cooko's gardons thero was a full muster of volunteers, and a largo attondanco of tho general public. Tho champion was driven to tho ground m a earriago containing also tho Mayor (Mr James Laird), ivnd tho Hon. Mr Bnllanco, M.U.B. His Worship suitably addressod Major Purnoll and con--1 frratultited him on his victory. Major Purnell having replied, threo hearty chcors wore given for tho champion, and tho assemblago thon disperaod.