RESERVIST IN A DUG-OUT

Dominion, Volume 11, Issue 69, 14 December 1917, Page 8

RESERVIST IN A DUG-OUT

SERIOUS OTTARGF AGAINST A FARMER. By Telegraph—Press Association. Wanganiii, December 13. A case presenting some remarkable features was heard at tho Magistrate's -"rt to-day, when Douglas Campbell Woldie, a farmer at Upper Waitotara, was charged with inciting Michael Kilh'.lea not to render the services required of him as a member of the Ex- . •''Hoiiary Forces. Killalea, who came to the Dominion from Ireland a few years ago, said that when bo received the notice that he I in'l ljnpii called up, Woldie told him to "plant" himself 011 the section, and assisted witness to make a dug-out, I'll was concealed with branches, in '"uely spot. Witness stayed seven weeks in tho hole, and Woldie occasionally used to bring him a piece of bread. Then rain' flooded the dug-out, and a fresh bole was dug in higher country. Altogether witness was Hiding for nino months, working in the day for Woldie, but making for file retreat if strangers were reported in tbo district. Witness said Woldie informed him that the military authorities were shooting deserters in Wellington, or taking them out to sea and dropping them overboard. He was afraid to give himself up,' as he believed he would be shot. Finally-witness made for the bush, where the police located and apprehended him. Witnesses said Killalea was a physical wreck when arrested. He appeared to be normal, but a simple, co"iitrified sow of man. Inspector Hendrey said tbo charge a9"Mi>st Woldie was a serious one. Defendant nleaderl net guilty, and was committed to the Supreme Court for trial. Rail was allowed, the sureties amounting to £300.