First Indian troops arrive in Europe

There were great scenes in Marseilles today as the troops of India landed for the first times on the shores of Europe. The troops were greeted by large crowds and were made feel at home as soon as they came ashore.

French soldiers immediately set about shaking every hand that came within reach and examined their rifles, bayonets and general accoutrement of their newly-made comrade in arms.

Reports from the arrival say, ‘our Indian troops, comparable as they are to any martial force in the world, have only one fear. It is that the war may be over before they get to the front’.