“I am sorry to say I have been obliged to give up the game of polo, but I still have a sneaking regard for the pursuit of paper--(cheers)--and I hope, with the kind assistance of our Honorary Secretary, we shall have some very pleasant paper-chases this my last cold weather among you--(hear, hear).
“Now, Gentlemen, I have come to the last phase or section referred to, namely, that of social companion, and on this head I can say nothing. It is needless for me to do so as your presence here to-night fully justifies the many nice things the Chairman has said about me. He is, as you doubtless know, one of my oldest friends; he has known me longer almost than anybody present, and has always, whether in weal or woe, extended the hand of true friendship and hospitality to me ever since I first came to Calcutta in 1875--(loud cheers).
“Before I sit down, I must again thank you one and all for the splendid reception you have given me this evening, and for the very kind manner in which my friends have rallied round me to-night and drunk my health, and I heartily wish to all of you the warm farewell you have wished to me.”
Lord William resumed his seat amid loud cheers, which were continued for some time.
Signatures recorded at the farewell dinner to Lord William Beresford are reproduced here.
SIGNATURES OF THE GUESTS PRESENT AT THE CALCUTTA BANQUET.
[Illustration: (several signatures; page 1 of 10)]
Having bid farewell to Calcutta, on his way down country, Lord Bill managed to stay at Lucknow to see his horses run for the last time in India. Good old Lucknow, where he had run many races and had some glorious times.
To send him away feeling happy his Mite won the Civil Service Cup and pots of money; also another race the same day, namely, the Chutter Munzil Purse; Vixen won the Horse Handicap on the third day; Negus won the Derby on the fourth day. After this Lord William made his final bow to India.
First Visit to the Deepdene--Finds a Relation in His Bedroom--Engagement to be Married Announced--School Treats--One New Year’s Morning--King Edward VII Visits the Deepdene When Prince of Wales--A Narrow Escape--“Tommy, Where Are You?”--Why Lord William wore a Turban--Fast Trotters and Their Doings--Mishap on the Way to the Derby--Racing in England--Racing Geography--Another Racing Partnership--Accident While Hunting--Mr. Palmer to the Rescue--Lord William Tells a Story Against Himself--A Son Born.