WELCOME GUESTS

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 86, Issue 118, 22 May 1942, Page 3

WELCOME GUESTS

) N.Z.E.F. IN SYRIA I (Official War Correspondent, ) N.Z.E.F.) j Cairo, May 15. , Pleasant surprises have awaited the New Zealanders, even in remote parts of Syria, through the hospitality of the tribesmen and villagers. Quaint vil- -| lages with bee-hive shaped mud huts - scattered among the hills and plains i have been the scenes of impromptu I. * entertainment for troops, some of r[ whom are many miles from civilisa- | tion. Meals are often given, consist- ; i ing mainly of boiled mutton and ? byead. The technique of eating withII out utensils was soon mastered. Goats’ s milk and sometimes coffee, served a • few drops at a time, go with the meal. The guests sit with the heads men. cross-legged on cushions, within s handy grasping distance of the food, ’ whne the other villagers hover in the I background. Sword-dancing, with a [ comedy touch, is frequently part of - the entertainment. Almost everys where the New Zealanders are greeted 1 with cheery waves and victory signs - from old and young. Their popularity is due in some measure to the medical attention provided for the natives, but where only a few weeks ago the people were very reserved, in most places they now welcome the troops in their midst. The distribution of flour 1 and dates from Allied countries to the s needy has done much to prompt this _ friendly attitude. This work is under- : taken in several districts by New Zea■■2 landers, whose arrival is eagerly I awaited. There is little sign of want anywhere. People arrive by horse or donkey or afoot and food is apportioned in an orderly manner through the village headmen.