194 EGYPT AND THE SOUDAN.

not only to her Majesty the Queen, but for the honour of the colony. I again thank you on behalf of the officers, non-commissioned officers, and men."

The speech of Colonel Richardson was followed by loud and repeated cries of " Mr. Dalley;" but the acting colonial secretary did not respond, that gentleman's reason for failing to address the assemblage being that on the occasion of the departure of the contingent for the scene of war they should not be addressed by any others than the representative of the queen and their commandant.

The contingent then marched on board the transports, the infantry and most of the artillery embarking on the Iberia, which took 600 of the men, the remaining 200, together with the horses and stores, being conveyed on board the Australasian.

Enthusiastic cheers arose from the quay as the vessels steamed away to the Heads, accompanied by a perfect fleet of steamers, all flying their gayest bunting. The scene was brilliant and impressive as the steamers moved off amidst the resounding cheers of the vast concourse of people : the fluttering of handkerchiefs, the wavin"- of flags : the music of the bands and the firing of signal guns. It was an occasion never to be forgotten by those who witnessed it.

His excellency the governor despatched a telegram to her Majesty the Queen, on the afternoon of the departure of the troops, in the following words :—" The Queen, Windsor Castle, England. Sydney contingent of 800 men, 224 horses, sailed to-day; great demonstration; immense enthusiasm, with intense loyalty to your Majesty. (Signed) Governor." To which Lord Augustus Loftus received the following answer from her Majesty: —" Greatly gratified by your account of the departure of the contingent and enthusiasm displayed by my loyal subjects." His excellency also received, in reply to a telegram sent to the Duke of Cambridge, the following telegram from his grace:—"Thanks for your telegram, and congratulate yourself and the colony on the loyal spirit evinced, which I highly appreciate." The latest despatch in the correspondence was a telegraphic one