The Indianapolis journal. [volume] (Indianapolis [Ind.]) 1867-1904, 1899-12-24

LONDON, Dec. 23.-Field Marshal Lord
Roberts. who is to assume command Of
the British forces in South Africa, has
sailed for South Africa on the Dunottdr
Castle. The general and his staff were
given ovations here and at southampton.
The party left Waterloo Railroad sta
tion at noon to-day amidst scenes of en-
thusiasm, vividly demonstrating the ma
tional interest in the event and the be-
lief that the departure of the general can
be accepted as a guarantee that what
ever can be done in South Africa will be
carried out by thoroughly competent hands
and on carefully matured lines. Although
only privileged persons were permitted to
enter the station. this did not prevent the
gathering OF immense throngs at all the
approaches and other points of vantage.
who cheered repeatedly as "Bobs,'' ac-
companied by his wife and two daughters,
drove UP. Seldom has the terminus wit
messed such an inspiring send-off. Every
appearance OF the field marshal was the
signal for ringing hurrahs. lusty shouts
and good wishes. The moment the veteran
commander arrived he was surrounded
by military officers and other friends, and
held semi-private reception in the wait
ing-room.
After personal leave-takings Lord Rob-
erts reached the platform where general
greetings and parting words were ex-
changed. Many ladies pressed forward to
get a last hand-shake. express sympathy
with the distinguished soldier in his
cent bereavement, and bid him Godspeed.
One woman, with eyes filled with tears. ex-
claimed: God bless you and bring you
safely back to u.s." This wish echoed
and re-echoed in varying phraseology by
hundreds throngins the vicinity of the
train.
As the general Joined his wife and
daughters at the door OF the saloon car
riage he was speedily surrounded by dis
tinguished statesmen and military men, in
Guiding A j. Balfour, the Marquis of
Iansdowne Field Marshal Sir Donald
Stewart and Lieutenant Colonel CARING
ton, the Queens equerTy. Lord Wolseley
and others arrived late and IL required all
the efforts of the police to clear a passage
for him.
Scarcely had the commander-in-chief
Joined Lord Roberts when a great cheer
announced the approach of the Duke of
Cambridge The crush was so great that
the duke. in spite of police protection.
was so hustled that more than once he
gave verbal expression OF resentment at
the rough treatment, he had to submit to
and the police redoubled their efforts,
finally enabling the Duke of Cambridge to
reach Lord Roberts, though in the con-
fusion the police thrust aside many of
those who were best entitled to remain.
including Lord Wolseley, who, however.
took the rough handling Of the police good
humoredly. The ladies present suffered
much from the crowd, but their piteous
appeals were unavailing to stem the
crush.
Renewed cheering heralded the Duke OF
COnnaught's arrival Then rousing cheers
momentarily diverted attention from the
hero of the hour as the Prince of Wales
appeared and greeted Lord Roberts in the
most cordial manner. The Prince and the
distinguished general engaged in earnest
conversation and furnished a striking
center to a notable group. which included
no less than five field marshals. Lord |
Roberts, who was in mourning dress. |
looked fit for anything. In spite of his |
sixty-seven years., he was straight and |
soldierly and his rugged features reflected |
At the time the train was due to start |
the Prince OF Wales again shook hands |
with Lord Roberts and spoke a few words |
10 the general, Of which the phrases, "God |
bless you." Good luck to you," were |
caught by those near by. The Prince also |
said: Goodbye, Bobs; happy Christ |
mas. a prosperous New Year and every |
possible luck in your job" Mr.. Balfour /
bade Lord Roberts similar farewell.
Amidst the din. enthusiasm and excite |
meni no one heard the signals for depart |
ure. and in consequence the train was
mov~& while Lord Roberts was still on |
the y.&,orm with his back to the carriage