In April, 1914, I applied for and was granted, five months' leave of absence, and left by the R.M.S. Orsova on a visit to old England, once more to view the scenes of my birthplace and boyhood days. The voyage home provided a delightful holiday, and time veritably "flew on wings." Concerts, fancy dress balls, and other varieties of entertainment followed each other in quick succession each evening, and the lighter side of life found eager devotees in the large crowd of Australians on board.

On May 15 a Masonic social was held, at which there were present no fewer than 63 members— representing lodges from all parts of the United Kingdom and her dominions. The loyal toast was responded to in a most enthusiastic manner, but little did those of us who honoured it think that in the course of a few weeks Great Britain would be taking part in a conflict, the effects of which were to extend from one end of the world to the other.

Colombo Revisited.

The first place of call was Colombo. Upon landing hundreds of Cingalese with smiling faces greeted the shore-going passengers, and the rickshaw man, prancing like a young colt, was everywhere, eagerly soliciting patronage. The Hindu Temple at Pittah and the Cinnamon Gar dens are outstanding points of interest that claim the eye in a land where every thing is beautiful.

A number of voyagers formed a jolly party in an excursion to Kandy, the mountain capital, which is 1,620 ft. above sea level. The train winds along the edge of a magnificent mountain pass, traversing most picturesque country, and Kandy is discovered surrounded by tea plantations. To see the native ploughman cultivating his paddyfield with the same old wooden plough and buffalo yoke that was used by his ancestors in the time of the pharaohs is a sight to be ever remembered.

In Ceylon there is a tree which is probably the oldest thing in the world. It was planted from a cutting of the bo-tree under which Buddha had his remarkable spiritual experience. It has been tended with extraordinary care through the centuries. Its limbs are supported by pillars, and each has been repeatedly terraced about it, so that it could keep sending fresh roots. How many more generations of men it may look down upon we cannot foretell, but we know how many it has already seen come and go. It was planted in 245 B.C. When Caesar was born the tree was al ready old.

Another nine days and we reached the Suez Canal, at the entrance of which there is a fine statue, erected to the memory of De Lesseps, the great constructional engineer. I shall not forget the passage through the cutting, with its fleet of dredges, and the official residences which line the banks on both sides, and are surrounded by stately palms. These lend the scene an enchantment that sends the more impressionable ones into rhapsodies of delight.

Arriving at Port Said we took in coal, the whole of the work being performed by the natives, who carry the coal baskets on their heads, singing all the time, as if they were having a picnic — the picnic, however, was only for the natives, as the sounds they make are far from melodious to the European ears. The speed with which the barges are unloaded is hardly credible, but numbers tell, and in a little while the anchor is weighed and we are off again.

In the Mediterranean.

A beautiful run across the Mediterranean brought us to Naples, with its orange and lemon groves, with its vineyards and vegetable gardens around the city. Everywhere men and women, working side by side in the fields, provide unmistakable proof of the thrift and indus try of the Italian people.

After sight seeing in Naples we journeyed to Pompeii, the city of the dead, through country entrancingly beautiful, and vegetation vividly green. Our first impression of this city— dead for 1,800 years— made us unconsciously lower the tones of our voices, and we fell into measured steps and slow as we trod silent, narrow streets. The marks of chariot wheels— unobliterated after the march of time, which has replaced them by countless forms of vehicles from which has been evolved the taxicab and the motor lorry — are almost as fresh as if but made yesterday, and the very loaves just taken from the bakers' ovens to serve the populace for the coming day lying undisturbed on the shelves, excite wonder. The museum, which contains the cast of human figures clasped in each other's arms in the very attitude of fear produced by overwhelming lava, are scenes which will never be effaced from the memory.

The next port of call was Toulon, the great French naval port, and thence to that grand old rock, Gibraltar. There we went ashore and spent a most enjoyable, time, seeing the various sights that the historic military port has to offer.

London at Last.

Another four days' steaming brought us to Tilbury Docks, where once more we trod the shores of old England. What changes, after an absence of nearly 40 years! But the same old flags and masts were there to welcome us back to the land of our forefathers.

London— at last; the greatest city in the world. How well it has earned its title! Its magnificent buildings leave the impress of untold wealth upon the mind, and its wonderful conveniences, with its network of under ground railways, motor buses, electric trams, and hordes of taxis and other motor vehicles, go to show that John Bull is in the front rank when it comes to a matter of locomotion.

Among the places of note, visited by me, were the House of Commons, the Abbey, old St. Paul's, the Tower; Ye Old Cheshire Cheese Hostel, where Dr. Johnson and his old cronies were wont to meet in the days of long ago. The rural districts, with their green pastures and the cattle fat and sleek grazing therein, did an Australian's eye good to look and gaze upon. I also visited the London Aerodrome at Henley, and was an onlooker at the aerial Derby, in which biplanes, monoplanes, and tractor-planes competed. To see these wonderful machines rise from the ground and soar heavenwards like some huge bird, and perform loop-the-loop feats at a height of 3,000 ft., was beyond comprehension. In many cases the safe arrival to terra firma of the aviator was a great relief to thousands of those present.

On visiting my native place, Jersey, I found great changes and marked progress. The cadet system is rigidly enforced there, and at the time the greater number of the cadets were in camp. The Devons Regiment was also garrisoned on the island. I took a steamer from the Channel Islands and travelled through France.

War Proclaimed.

No wonder the Frenchman fought so valiantly to protect his native land, and that city of all cities— beautiful Paris. Words of mine cannot express the charm of 'gay Paree.' But all good things come to an end. I embarked from Tilbury Docks on July 31, 1914, for sunny Australia and home, sweet home. What a joyful feeling does that convey to one's mind.

At this time little did we think that a dread war was already casting its fateful shadow over Europe, but on arrival at Gibraltar we were met with a novel sight. Numbers of naval ships and merchantmen were in the outer harbour, and the inner harbour was closed. As this is only done in time of war, we at once began to fear the worst, and our fears were confirmed when we were informed by a proclamation from the Governor that England was at war with Germany. We were not allowed to go on shore or to continue our journey. Words cannot con vey what this meant to us. All sorts of rumours were circulated.

At first it was reported that we were going back to London for an indefinite period, next that we were going round the Cape as the safer course. Others had heard from the highest authority that the captain's steward, whom he had in confidence told told it to the cook's mate, who had imparted to the ship's barber, that there were half a dozen German cruisers waiting outside for us. You can picture our state of mind.

Shall I ever forget that weary waiting, day after day, for authentic news? But we received none. The brighter spirits of our womenkind and the brave hearts of our men grew weary with the strain. What with the torpedo boats steaming here and there and the flashlights at night from old 'Gib'— the watchdog of the Mediterranean— radiating from every point of the compass, is it surprising that we wondered at times what our fate was mine to he. But we all felt thankful for the shelter of that magnificent old fortress, and if ever I felt proud of having been born under the Union Jack it was during this most anxious and trying time.

After a week's delay steam was got up, propellers started revolving, and the joyful news was handed out that we were on the way home via Malta. There was plenty of hearty handshaking, and King George's health and confusion to his enemies was drunk in bumpers. By the time the enthusiasm had abated the whole of the German array and fleet were completely annihilated. We reached Malta after four days' steaming, with all lights out at night, not knowing but that at any moment we might be blown up by a mine or captured by one of the enemy's cruisers. The harbour was filled with ships of war of all sorts and sizes.

We stayed but a short time at Malta, and proceeded by a cir cuitous route to Port Said, and there we saw several German merchant ships which had been captured. The passage through the Suez Canal was all that could be desired. Then we entered the Red Sea— hot is no name for it— and we were all supremely thankful when we met the sou' west monsoons, and the weather got beautiful and cool.

Home Again.

Back again once more at Colombo; we found the war fever at its height. The Cingalese were greatly excited, and numbers of' them were anxious to go to the front to help the British. On September 5 we arrived at Fremantle, and were all jubilant to hear that Great Britain and her allies had met with many successes, and on September 9 we reached the Outer Harbour. A trip to the old country is an educational treat that every Australian should avail himself of if possible. The holiday did me an immense amount of good, although of all the places visited, Australia, with its sunshine and beautiful skies, is the best of all.

Transferred to Renmark.

Upon the death of Col. Madley, Inspector Raymond, of the Mounted Police, was appointed Commissioner of Police. The police force generally considered that the Government of the day had chosen wisely in appointing him Commissioner, for he was held in high respect by all branches of the service as an excellent and capable officer.

After having had charge of the Quorn Police Station for four and a half years, I received instructions from Commissioner Raymond to proceed to Renmark on January 5, 1915, and take charge of the police there. Prior to my departure The Quorn Mercury inserted a complimentary reference to the manner in which I had carried out my official duties while in charge of that district:—

Sergeant Le Lievre, who has had charge of the Quorn police station for the last four and a half years, has re ceived notice of his transference to Ren mark, and will take up his duties at the new station about January 5, 1915. The Sergeant has been a most zealous officer, and has combined a display of tact and fearlessness in the exercise of his departmental duties, which has gained for him the respect and regard of all stations of the community. The town ship will also feel the loss of Mrs. Le Lievre and family who have, at all times, proved themselves willing workers in forwarding the interests of the town, and in contributions to the well being of residents from a social point of view.

The following is also a copy of a letter, which it afforded me great pleasure to receive, from Mr. W. J. Hinde, Special Magistrate of the northern district, upon my departure for Renmark:—

Walkerville, December 25, 1914.
Dear Sgt. Le Lievre —I regret your departure from Quorn, but hope it will be for advancement in the service, and I miss your cheerful company when I am at Quorn nowadays. Please accept this as a grateful acknowledgment of your constant courtesy and kindness to me when we were associated together in that northern town. As Clerk of the Court you have always carried out your duties in an efficient and painstaking manner. With kind regards, yours faithfully (sgd.), W. J. Hinde, S.M.

Appointments at Renmark.

In addition being Sergeant in Charge of the police, I held the following appointments:— Clerk and Bailiff of the Local Court, Harbour Master, Assistant Registrar of Births and Deaths for the district of Burra, Representative Officer of the Destitute Board, Registrar of Pensions, Issuer of Fishermen's Licences, Issuer of Stone and Timber Licences, Assistant Stock Inspector, and Keeper of the Renmark Gaol. All offenders sentenced to one month or under are imprisoned there. It is said that a policeman's life is a happy one, and yet I am sure my readers will say that any police officer having to perform the above-mentioned duties, although his lot may be a happy one, it is no sinecure.

I have every reason to believe, as it has been said that 'hard work is the salt of life,' for I am pleased to say I enjoyed the best of health, and could at times, find a little recreation in a game of bowls.

The Special Magistrate of the Renmark Local Court was Mr. T. Keats, who was very much esteemed by the local justices, and all those who came in contact with him; in fact he was a fine old gentleman. The Renmark Court was in the latter part of 1915, taken off his circuit, which was a large one. Little did I think on the last time he visited and adjudicated at the Renmark Court, and my wishing him good-bye, that it would be the last I would see of him. I deeply regret to say that it was a last farewell, for I never saw him again. He died a short time afterwards. On the Renmark Court being severed from his circuit, he kindly sent me the following letter apprising me of it:—

Wallaroo, December 7; 1915.
My dear Le Lievre — I shall not have the pleasure of seeing you officially, as the Renmark Court is not now in my circuit. I take this opportunity of saying farewell. I have been very pleased to have been associated with you, and have found you in variably attentive to your duties as Clerk of the Court, efficient and well conducted in your manner, both privately and officially. I wish you every success, believe me, faithfully yours,
(Sgd.) Jas. T. Keats, S.M.

Promoted To Inspector's Rank.

On July 1, 1917, after having been two two years and a half at Renmark, I was promoted to the rank of Inspector, having completed more than 40 years' service. I received instructions from Commissioner Edwards to proceed to Adelaide for duty at the Mounted Barracks, he having superseded Commissioner Raymond, who had retired from the service after having attained the age limit. The Murray Pioneer generously referred to me as follows:—

'Inspector Le Lievre has received general congratulations on his well-deserved promotion. There is no one in Renmark but is glad of it for Mr. Le Lievre's sake, although his approaching departure from this centre is a matter of universal local regret. Renmark is an important police station and good men have commanded it in turn, but by none of them has the respect and esteem of the community been more thoroughly earned than by Inspector Le Lievre. The Sergeant— for as such he will always be remembered in Renmark —is not only a capable officer with a long record of distinguished service to his credit, but one of the most human-hearted of men, and many a poor soul who has been helped by him in a pension application, or otherwise assisted, will hold him in grateful remembrance. The late W. T. Stead, in one of his inimitable little books for children, wrote of the British policeman , as the modern representative of the Knights Errant of the days of Chivalry, and it is palpably very largely in such a light that the subject of this notice has regarded his office. He has been an active member of the Renmark Masonic Lodge, and is a living example of the fine fraternal spirit of Masonry. Inspector Le Lievre expects to leave Renmark for the city on July 16. The very warmest wishes of this town and settlement for the future happiness and welfare will go with him and with Mrs. and Miss Le Lievre to their new home.

Local Justice's Eulogy.

The Renmark paper also published the following on July 20, 1917:—

'Justices of the peace residing in Renmark assembled in the lounge of the hotel on Saturday morning to formally bid fare-well and godspeed to Inspector Le Lievre who has been transferred to Adelaide, and whose future duties will embrace the training of young members of the police force. As the oldest Magistrate present, Mr. J. M. Smith acted as spokesman for the group, testifying to the help he had received from Mr. Le Lievre in many ways, help which extended to church and Masonic matters, as well as those associated with the Local and Police Courts. They had all found a friend in the sergeant, and they united in congratulating him upon his promotion, and in good wishes for his future welfare and that of his family.
Mr Smith then read the following address:—
To Inspector Le Lievre. Dear Sir —As Magistrates of the Renmark Bench, we desire to congratulate you upon the latest promotion you have won, in that service of the State to which you have de voted so many years of your life. In your capacity of Clerk of this Local Court, as well as in that of police station here, you have, during the past two years and a half, been assiduous in the discharge of your duty to the public, and in the assistance which your long and varied experience has enabled you to render to the Bench. Assuming wider and more important responsibilities, you will carry with you to your new sphere of activity the good wishes, not only of ourselves, who have been brought more closely in touch with you, but we are convinced of the whole body of the inhabitants of this settlement and district. The integrity, candour, and intelligence, which you have displayed among us, now will have a larger scope, we do not doubt, with an increasing benefit to the State. We are, your obliged and faithful wellwishers, (Sgnd.) Joseph Mighell Smith. J.P.; Frank Cutlack, J.P.; H. Showell, J.P.; S. Dridan, J.P.; J. F. Field, J.P.; W. J. Moffat; J.P.; E. R. Olorenshaw, J.P.; Edwin Pott, J.P.; A. Hilton, J.P.; H. S. Taylor, J.P.; and C. M. Adey, J.P. 'The several signatories having personally endorsed the remarks of Mr. Smith, and dwelt upon their guests' good qualities. Inspector Le Lievre feelingly acknowledged the compliment paid him. He had conceived a very high opinion of the Renmark Bench, and was grateful to know that his efforts to do his duty had been so highly appreciated. Reference had been made by one of the speakers to his human heartedness. He had found as the result of many years' contact with the so called- criminal class that there was good in all human beings, and that they were all responsive to kindness. He and his family would ever remember with pleasure their sojourn in Renmark, and cherish the testimonial which he had that day received. 'On Monday afternoon members of the Renmark Club met to express their appreciation of Inspector Le Lievre, and to wish him good luck. In return, their guest entertained them with many reminiscences of life in the police force; between 30 and 40 years ago.'