DEATH OF MR. C. O'HARA SMITH.

Evening Post, Volume LII, Issue 93, 10 September 1896, Page 6

DEATH OF MR. C. O'HARA SMITH.

A private cablegram received in Wellington this morning announces tho death at Bathurst, New South Wales, of Mr. Qharles O'Hara Smith, Chief Auditor of the New Zealand Lands Revenue Department. The news, although not unexpected, •will be received with, deep regret by a very large number of our readers. The deceased gentleman, who was a son of Captain Smith, of Wellington, contracted a cold some years ago after taking rowing exercise, and was never able to shake off its effects. Consumption was developed, and for some time past it has been evident that his life was drawing to a close. A few weeks ago he obtained leave' of absence, and on medical advice he went to the warmer climate of New South Wales with the object of benefiting his health. He leaves a widow and five children. The late Mr. Smith, who was 42 years of age, joined the Treasury Department in 1873, and was transferred to the Audit Department in 1879. In 1892 he was promoted to the position of Chief Auditor of the Lands Revenue Department, and retained the appointment until his death. He became a member of the Star Boating Club soon after its formation, and has remained on its list of first-class oarsmen. At the annual meeting of the club he was, on account of his past services, elected a life honorary member. For some years Mr. Smith was a non-commissioned officer in the D Battery of Artillery, and he only severed his connection with the company because he found that his official duties prevented him devoting sufficient attention to volunteering work. There was at one time no one in Wellington who took a keener interest in field sports, and he was, in years gone by, one of the best amateur athletics in the city. He was a Past Master of the Wellington Lodge of Freemasons. His official duties were discharged in a very able manner, and by his death the Public Service loses a most efficient and courteous officer.