STRANGE FORBEARANCE.

Press, Volume XLVII, Issue 7747, 30 December 1890, Page 3

STRANGE FORBEARANCE.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE PRESS. Sib,—Although a stranger here I cannot help addressing you a few lines on a subject which Is now being discussed in your ' columns —leading and correspondence. I refer to the band performances on Christmas Bye. Between 11 and 12 p.m. I heard them, and beyond thinking that not play very well, and that they were rather late, I did not give them much consideration. Bat when I was vainly trying to get to sleep at 1 a.m., and was hindered by the sounds that floated through the beautiful balmy air of this favored city, that fair moonlight night, I began to wonder at the strange forbearance of the citizens, who, I should have thought, would hare quickly sent the disturbers home with a clear understanding that they were not wanted. When, however, at 6 a.m. I was roused from my slumbers with a start by tha braying of a large trumpet, or some such fiendish instrument just under my window, I concluded that it is possible to carry forbearance too far. Herein I have been strengthened since learning that the horrid warfare was carried out all night; actually at 2, 3, 4, and 5 a.m., and that those who were not disturbed at one hour were at another. This is to "murder sleep " with a vengeance. Now, lam told that we may expect the same thing on New Year's J3ve. If so, I can only say that this is the very strangest custom ever permitted co continue in a civilised country, and it seems to mc to harmonise ill with the peaceful, orderly, law-abiding character on which I understand New Ze&landers pride themselves. I enclose my card, but beg to subscribe myself.—Yours, &c.. New Chum.