DEPARTURE OF THE TROOPS.

Wellington Independent, Volume XV, Issue 1413, 16 March 1860, Page 2

DEPARTURE OF THE TROOPS.

Last evening the whole of the troops garrisoned at Wellington, embarked on board the Airedale for Taranaki, haying been in readiness since Sunday, waiting the arrival of a steamer. As they marched down to Rhodes' Wharf, the sound of fife and drum attracted the remnant of the population who had not' " gone to the races." Hearty cheers saluted the soldiers as they pushed off, and they were privileged to " smell powder," expended by some of the shipping on their way to the steamer.

Wellington cheerfully parts with the few troops she has, and believes, they will be found of as much service as any that may muster at the Waitara. We are glad in being able thus far to help our fellow colonists of Taranaki, and hope that when the collision does take.

it will be "sharp and short," and that the Wellington contingent may return to us with a large addition to its lamvls. In the meanwhile the Militia, which will be drawn to-day, will willingly do whatever barrack duty may be deemed necessary, and should any fears arise for the safety of this district, it will be found equal to all that can reasonably be expected . from it. We have no belief that any such fears will arise, but as prevention is better than cure, we shall deem the General Government wanting in its duty to this large population if it does not replace the troops that have left at the earliest opportunity that arises, consistent with the full accomplishment of the objects they have gone to attain.