Poisoning at Pahiatua.

Auckland Star, Volume XXIII, Issue 17, 21 January 1892, Page 5

Poisoning at Pahiatua.

THE INQUEST TO-NIGHT.

ARSENIC IN THE MEAT.

IMPORTANT EVIDENCE EXPECTED.

(BY TELEGRAPH.—PEESS ASSOCIATION.)

Pahiatua, this day. The inquest on tho victims of the poisoning fatality, which will be resumed at efcß o'clock this evening, will probably be coa« eluded about midnight. Ten witnesses are to be examined. The evidence of Dr. Skey, Government Analyst, and Mrs Naylor, in whose house the wedding took place, will have the most import* ant bearing on the case.

Arsenic was foundin thestomachof thede« ceased, but nob the slightest trace of poison of any kind was discovered in the various articles of food forwarded to the Government Analyst.

It should be mentioned, however, tbab none of the lamb which is supposed to have contained poison could be procured for analysis, the remains of the dish having been thrown away before the symptoms of the guests became alarming. Evidence will be given to show that the cat and dog which picked up the meat and, ate it were attacked. by a severe fib of vomiting, but that they recovered shortly afterwardu.

_Mr 3 Naylor's evidence will go in the direction of showing that there is reason to believe the poison waa put in the food by design, and that the sad affair was not the result of accident. The police have made every effort, but have been unable to ascertain where the poiton was purchased. Di\ Skey, Dr. Milne (who attended the deceased), Mr Kidd, local chemist, and Mrs Naylor, who will be called in the order named, are expected to be able to throw moat light on the occurrence. Intense interest is taken in the inquiry in tho township and surrounding districts.