Theke Tvafi a large gathering of volunteer ofScers at the Drill-shed this afternoon for the purpose of presenting an p.ddrcas to Lieut. - Colonel Shepherd. pre sentation was made by Lieub.-Colonel ibignan. Tho address was as follows : — " Lieutenant; - Colonel T. V. Shepherd, Commanding Auckland District. Dear c;ir, On the eve of your retirement from the command of tins district—consequent; on the retrenchment measures adopted by the Government —which you held with so much credit and ability for upwards of seven years, we, the officers of tho various branches of the volunteer establishment desire to express to you tho deep sense of with which we view tho circum stance of your unavoidable severance from a command which your profession as a sol dier so eminently fitted you for. We take this opportunity of expressing to you our appreciation of your ever ready willingness to assist in promoting the best interests of the volunteer movement by your advice, encourascment, and generous assistance, and not least, amongst other matters, the material assistance rendered by yon in the inauguration of the military sports which have been so signally marked by success, under your able direction, as to become an annual institution, and have proved such a valuable incentive to increase the efficiency of the service by encouraging a friendly gpirib of emulation in the various military exercises comprising the events, besides affording facilities of mutual intercourse by the corps in the more remote parts of the district with the head-quarter companies. Be assured that although separated from us as a commanding officer, your name will ever be held in kindest remembrance, and thab your conduct and services are fully appreciated by us, as we are con- Bcious of and grateful for tho valuable aid which has been rendered by you. Ib would be a source of sincere gratification to us to learn, and we trust-at no distant date, thab yon have been ap pointed to a command to which your military capacity entitles you. 