SERGEANT JOHN PRICE. [By Telegraph.]

(Our (hen Corretpondmt.) MABTBBTON, THIS DAT. Sergeant John Prico, who is one of the oldost police officers of tho colony, died at 3iia residence here this morning. Deceased was, for somo unknown reason, transferred to Wellington a few wooks since, to do night duty. He was then suffering from an affection of the throat, and his sndden transfer "appeared to prey on his mind, and ho was taken seriously ill. Although attended by 'two doctors, he gradually sank, and expired 'as above stated. The immediate cause of death was acute bronchitis. The deceased was an energetic officer, and his death will be regretted by many friends throughout the colony. A family of three is loft to mourn his loss. As the doqtors will not give a certificate, an inquest into tho cause of the death of Sergeant Price will bo held this afternoon. TTho news contained in the abovo message will bo reooived with profound regrotby tho groat number of acquaintances of the late Sergoant Price who resided in this city, where ho was stationed for a considerable number of years. He camo to the colony about 30 years ago, hfcving previously served as a non-com-missioned officer through the Indian Mutiny. After some years experience in Canterbury, ho wont to Auckland, where he aorved in the police force under Commissioner Nanghton and Inspector Brougham. On resigning he oamo to Wellington, where he aguin joined the force, in which he has remained ever Bince, completing with 1891 tho twentiethyear of his servioe in this district alone. The burly sergeant was known to his superior officers as hard-working and intelligent, and was always ready for dnty. Ho replaced Sergt. Sl'Ardlo, now of Waipawa, in the charge of tho Mastorton station somo eight yoars ago. Quito recently he camo to Wellington and consulted with Dr. M'Konzio in regard to a throat affection from which he suffered, and was reoomraended to take a rout. Since then he has been on sick leave. Ho was a mstive of Wales, and abont 64 years of age. It is bolieved that he has brothers, who are officers in tho Cardiff police.]

The inoumbont of St. Peter's invites the ■ohoir to meet him to-morrow evening, in the large schoolroom, for tho consideration of important business. The Columbia Skating Rink will bo open this evoning. Churchward * Jloaller will sell to-morrow, fruit, &c.