THE GARRISON.

Wellington Independent, Volume XVII, Issue 1488, 11 January 1861, Page 2

THE GARRISON.

Such a week of storm as the present has not been experienced for many years, and we shall be truly rejoiced if we do not have another like it for many more. Ordinary south-casters are a blessing ; bracing our constitutions after the relaxing effects of long-continued northwesters ; but wherever the present gale has extended, there we - are afraid damage has been done to public works and private interests. Roads, &c, have been carried away, fruit trees have been completely stripped, and the means of livelihood for many thereby destroyed ; scarcely a species of tree or shrub has, escaped the blight of Tuesday night, and probably the potato© crop will be to a great degree spoiled. There is every indication that the gale is now abating, and we shall soon be in a position to judge accurately of the damage sustained, when we hope it may prove less than present reports would lead us to expect. The elements have given a sorry welcome to our newly arrived garrison. Nothing could exceed the fineness of Monday, the day on which they landed ; but since then they have had nothing to excite any pleasing anticipations relative to their new quarters. However, they know something of weather,lbeing well acquainted with the rigours of a Crimean winter campaign, and must look upon our gale as a mere trifle in comparison. We regret to observe, from the number of new recruits, how severely the 14th must have suffered in the late war ; and doubt not that their conduct in garrison will command as much respect and earn for them as good a name as did their bravery in the field. They take possession of quarters which have been occupied for many years by as fine a regiment as any in the service, and in heartily welcoming the gallant 14th, we cannot wish them better than that they may be found emulating our old friends the gallant 65th.