NGAPARA. (FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Otago Witness, Issue 1456, 11 October 1879, Page 18

NGAPARA. (FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.)

Hews, as well as money, has been scarce in this district lately j hence my silence during the past fortnight.' It may, however, be a sort of consolation to know you were not alone in experiencing intensely cold weather lately. We have had our share — notably on Saturday last, when we were 1 favoured with snow and hail. To-day (6fch inst.), happily, the earnest of better things iiaa dawned. The crops which aro up look well, the condition* of the ground in general being- all that could be desired. Unfortunately there ia one exception. A field of over 400 acres, sown early in the season with wheat, has refused to gladden the heart of its owner by appearing above ground except in stray blades, the seed having been devoured by grubß or worms. I believe it has been re-sown with grssa seed. It fortunately does not belong to a man of small means, or it would have made him look "blue."

The farmers for miles around are determined there shall be a good supply of potatoes next year, if we are to judge by the number of acres planted now. It is not likely' there will be the scarcity of last ■eason, for by comparing my notes of this time last year I find : *• Farmers are anxiously waiting for rain, the ground being very dry." This was the prime cause of the failure of the crop, and the coaaequent high prices prevailing.

The Itev. James Cameron delivered his promised kciure on "Mohammedanism" last Wednesday night, in aid of the iSabbathschool library. , Mr L'ith, ten., occupied the chair. Considering the utiinviting woather, the attendance wa3 yood. Betwetn 50 and 60 tickets were previously disposed of. The lecture was greatly appreciated by thoae praaent. By next Sabbath we hope to have the books in hand.