Abergavenny, South Africa War

A public banquet given in honour of the return of Captain W. J. R. Marsh from South Africa, was held at the Swan Hotel, Abergavenny, on Friday evening last. Colonel Church presided, and was supported by the guest of the evening, wearing his khaki uniform. Mr. Codrington, F. Carwshay, Lieutenant Crawshay, the Rev. F. W. G. Whitfield (vicar), Mr. J. O. Marsh, J.P., &c.

After dinner the Chairman proposed the toast of the "King and the Royal Family."
Mr. J. O. Marsh submitted the toast of the "Bishop, Ministers, and Clergy," and the Vicar and the Rev. S. R. Young responded.
The Chairman proposed the "Navy, Army, and Auxiliary Forces," and coupled with it the names of Lieutenant Crawshay (Welsh Fusiliers) and Lieutenant-Colonel W. D. Steel (4th V.B.S.W.B.)
Colonel Steel, in replying, said it was gratifying to know that the services of these forces had been so recognised, and that out of the 4th Vol. Batt., no less than seven officers had seen service in South Africa. They were all proud that their own Captain Marsh had been recognised in the manner he had.

Colonel Church read the following letter: -
"British Legation, Copenhagen, August 3rd, 1901. Dear Mr. Marsh, - I saw in the local paper that your son has safely returned home from South Africa, and the spontaneous and hearty welcome he has received must be some small comfort to you after the anxiety you, like so many others, must have experienced during the past months. Although my congratulations will reach you somewhat late, I trust you will allow me to add them to those numerous ones already received, and I trust that your son will live long to add to the honours he has already received in South Africa. - Believe me, yours truly, Arthur Herbert. Letters were also read from Lieutenants G. Pritchard, Bridgend; Bretherton, Cowbridge; and Colonel Wyndham-Quin.

Colonel Church, in presenting Captain Marsh with a punch bowl, said: Colonel Wyndham-Quin says that Captain Marsh has done grand work for his King and country. In that black December, Captain Marsh, without any hesitation, enlisted as a trooper in the Imperial Yeomanry, and his commanding officer soon found out his sterling qualities, and he comes back to us as a captain. All his friends are truly proud that he belongs to Abergavenny. I ask Captain Marsh's acceptance of a silver punch bowl, and wish him every happiness and success.
The health of the guest was drunk with musical honours.

Colonel Church then, on behalf of the burgesses of Abergavenny, presented Sergeant E. Morgan with a watch, suitably inscribed, for his services in South Africa.

Captain Marsh, in responding, said: I can hardly find words to express to you my thanks for the reception you gave me last week, and also for the handsome present you have given me to-night. I am pleased to know that the services of the squadron and myself have given satisfaction, and they were delighted to know that their efforts were appreciated.
Sergeant Morgan also responded.

The other toasts were the "Visitor," "Corporation," "The Chairman," "The Vice-Chairman," etc., all of which were duly honoured, and a pleasant evening was spent.

(County Observer and Monmouthshire Central Advertiser, Saturday 17th August 1901)