sports which now take place annually on the 25th October, the anniversary of the 
Battle of Balaclava. Sergeant Gould has proved himself the “best man-at-arms’" 
this year, and his name will be duly inscribed on it. (Lond applause). All 
officers who have formerly served in “C” Troop have been invited to support this 
fund, and our appeal has been already most liberally responded to, showing the 
interest which they still continue to take in their old troop. Amongst them there 
is one in particular who has always identified himself with its fortune on all 
occasions. I allude to Colonel Whinyates. He commanded it for ten years ; 
after his retirement he wrote its history, and has never ceased to keep in touch 
with us now serving. I met him in London the other day, when he told me that 
he would gladly return to India to command it again. 1 am very glad to see 
Kegimental Sergeant-Major Graham, an old “C” Troop man, who has come from 
Meerut to join us to-night. It now only remains for me to thank the ladies, the 
officers, non-commissioned officers and men of other batteries and regiments for 
their presence here, and to propose the health of the past officers of “C” Troop, 
coupled with the name of General Pretyman. (Loud applause). 
The band then struck up “Auld Lang Syne,” which was sung by the entire 
company. 
General Pretyman, who was loudly cheered on rising, then spoke as follows:— : 
Comrades of “C” Battery,—As a former officer of this distinguished troop, 
it gives me the greatest pleasure and satisfaction to be amongst you all to-night, 
on this occasion of the celebration of your centenary. It was my good fortune to 
have served in this battery at this very station during the years 1875-76, when 
we were ordered to England. The then Commanding Officer was Major (now 
Colonel) Whinyates, of whose keen interest in everybody and everything con¬ 
nected with his old command Major Bochfort has just told us. Indeed, he might 
well be called the modern father of the battery. Under him, in 1875, about 
this same time of year, we marched to Delhi to take part in the manoeuvres which 
were held, before H.B.H. the Prince of Wales on the occasion of his visit to India. 
I can safely tell you that in the various field days and reviews in which the battery 
took part it was “ second to none.” (Cheers). Major Bochfort has eloquently 
given you a brief history of the battery, and has recounted its past services. You 
have a fair fame and noble traditions to maintain. To you, the officers, non¬ 
commissioned officers and men now serving, this sacred heritage is entrusted. 
Prom what I know of the battery in the past, and from what I have seen of it in 
the present, I have every confidence that you will one and all worthily uphold the 
high reputation, and the good of your battery, whether it be in peace or in war, 
and wherever you may be called upon in the service of Queen and country. 
(Loud applause). 
The evening was brought to a very successful conclusion with songs. 
