The 'little giant' gave a 6 a.m. salute of 13 guns to the 4th, and soon after might have been seen a busy throng in our streets while from numerous staffs the Stars and Stripes, the Union Jack, and our own Dominion Colors roared in the early breeze. The indications were that the clerk of the weather was in good humor and the expectations of a gala day caused smiles to predominate; both old and young appeared gay and happy.
The cars stood upon the track near the head of Albert street; they were six in number, all well seated with new lumber from Emory Mill, tied to stakes along both sides green bushes appeared attractive. The locomotive had similar flags to those mentioned elevated in front, and other flags streamed from the Excursion cars — two fine flags from both nations extending from the rear car. The display was attractive and evidently met with the approval of all who honored the Day and felt kindly toward our Fire Organization Excursion.
Shortly after 9 o'clock the New Westminster Brass Band, that had arrived with the 'Wm. Irving' Excursion the afternoon previous, made its appearance, and were provided with seats upon the third car. Now the pleasure seekers began to rush on board and take seats. A large number were on the cars, and no more wishing to go before next trip, the word was given and the shrill whistle of the engine gave warning and the Band striking up Hail Columbia, away the first Excursion train upon the C.P.R. in British Columbia went apparently to the satisfaction of the people as well as the Firemen's Committee in charge (for the Excursion was for the benefit of the fire Company Funds, to enable the Organization to secure a place for their apparatus, etc.,) and we might, also, add to honor the Day that gave birth to Free America — the Home of the oppressed of all Nations. In passing Mr. Onderdonk's villa the Band played with spirit, 'Star-spangled Banner.' The train moved pleasantly along, at speed far beyond the expectations of the masses. On arrival at Emory the train stopped after crossing the bridge near the American Hotel, where soon the Excursionists were sight-seeing in the embryo city. The Band remaining near the hotel where the dancing platform had been erected under cover, the necessary music was provided and the tripping upon 'the light fantastic toe' commenced in good earnest, the ladies, especially, evidently enjoying the exercise. For a time other of the Excursionists visited the 'Emory Hotel,' and scattering around scenery.
The 2nd train arrived shortly after 11, conveying quite an addition to the first party. The people of Emory welcomed the Excursionists and the best of feeling prevailed. Dinners were provided at the hotels and many participated, while others had their 'pic-nics' or visited friends. Early in the afternoon it was announced the horse racing would take place and this brought the crowd to Front street. As the day was somewhat warm for such work as racing and to make it easy for the horses a short distance of 300 yds was decided upon. The Hope horse, owned by Master Walker, won by four lengths. It was now announced that the cars were about going back to Yale and accordingly the people generally began to move toward the cars where they stood. All on board that wanted to return before the 5 p.m. train, a goodly number preferred to remain and continue to dance, which they did. When on the Emory bridge the train was stopped, Mr. Maynard photographed the view, and on his return to Victoria he will finish up. No doubt the views will find ready sale, for the Excursion over the road ought to be long remembered and views thereof prized for a long time to come. The train reached Yale again about 1:30 p.m., and continued past the town, and up through Nos. 1 and 2 Tunnels; this was a surprise to many, who had heard nothing of the intention of Mr. Munro and the Conductor and Engineer in this respect. This extra ride and sight-seeing was a crowning feature in the pleasure of the Excursion, and we know we express the thanks of the whole party to the enjoyment.
Returning to Yale about 2 p.m., three hearty cheers were given for the Railway Company, and three more for the Band, when the Excursionists separated for the time being. At 4 o'clock the train had a large number on board for the last trip of the day to Emory. Finally the proceedings at Emory concluded and the cars left at 5 p.m., arriving in time to witness part of the Yale sports. The return of all the Excursions to this place made our streets look as if there was a large population on hand.
