2-913-830 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Presentation of Colours to the Cambridgeshire Militia, at Ely, 1854. A platform was erected, covered with crimson cloth, on Palace Green just opposite the Cathedral, from where the Countess of Hardwicke presented the Colours to the Cambridgeshire Militia, previous to their leaving for Ireland. '...the Countess rose from her seat and, advancing towards the edge, supported by the Earl on one side and her daughters on the other, read an eloquent address: 'I present you with these Colours - I call upon you to follow them - for doubtless, in the hands of such officers, they will lead you to the path of glory! To respect them - because, in this favoured land, they represent honour, order, and freedom! And to die for them, if necessary, in defence of your most beloved Queen and country. I now wish you a heartfelt farewell. And may God bless, direct, and prosper the Cambridgeshire Militia'. From "Illustrated London News", 1854.