Larrikinism In Parnell.

Auckland Star, Volume XVII, Issue 95, 26 April 1886, Page 3

Larrikinism In Parnell.

(To the Editor.)

Sir, —Will you kindly allow mo to trespass on your space in order to give publicity, and with a view to the suppression of a great and growing nuisance existing in the Borough of Parnell, which is caused by hoodlums and larrikins, many of whom are quite children, congregating every evening on the asphalted footpaths in knots of from 6 to 12 or more, some of them smoking, and covering the paths in various places with their saliva, the effect ovidently produced by endeavouring prematurely to acquire the habit. They also make use of ribald and frequently obscene language, insulting ladies by personal and rude remarks, so much so, that many are now often compelled to suffer inconvenience by deferring shopping calls, &.c, until daylight, when these larrikins are at school or at their ordinary occupation. I would also direct attention to the fact that since the said footpaths have been improved, they aro considered by the youths as more suitable for their rough games, such as trundling hoops, and running trollies and boys' trucks along them. Bicycles and tricycles are also driven on them by those who ought not to require reminding that they are not only breaking the law, but at times causing great inconvenience. Caunomeansbetaken to suppress thosenuisanccsaud render the footpaths safe for women and children ? lam aware it is very disheartening and distasteful to our police constable after bringing offenders to justice to have the cases dismissed, and hear jests and calls from these larrikins of "Let off with a caution;" but, if that is bo, would it not be better that he be removed to some other district where he would find duties more congenial, and that he be replaced by an active man, who would endeavour both to relieve the inhabitants of the nuisance, and I trust at the same time improve the manners of the offenders,— I am, &c., A Sufferer.