DEATH OF DR BEDFORD.

Evening Star, Issue 16661, 18 February 1918, Page 4

DEATH OF DR BEDFORD.

DROWNED "WHILE BATHING AT WHANGAEEI. [Per United Pukes Association.] AUCKLAND, February 18. • News was received last evening of, the death by drowning at Whangarei early yesterday morning of Dr Bedford, Professor of Economics and History at Otago University. Dr Bedford arrived in Auckland about January 23 on a lecturing tour in the interests of temperance. He had spoken at several centres, and he was to have addressed a public meeting in the Auckland Town Hall on Wednesday evening. Ho reached Whangarei on Saturday evening in company with the Rev. John Dawson, secretary of the New Zealand Alliance. He was the guest of the Rev. E. Clark, Methodist minister. He left the house early yesterday morning with the intention of bathing in the Mair pool (still water of the Hatea River), which is a favorite resort of swimmers. Ho met Mr R. Cooper, a local resident, coming away from the pool. Mr Cooper pointed out to liim the dangerous spots and currents.

Mr Cooper had not proceeded far when lie heard cries for help. Hurrying back, he reached the Mair pool just as Professor Bedford was sinking. Although only an indifferent swimmer, Mr Cooper attempted to rescue the drowning man. His efforts, however, were unavailing, and lie ran for help, returning with several swimmers, who attempted to recover the body by diving. After several futile attempts the police were sent for, and the body was obtained by dragging' the pool with nets. . WHANGAREI, February 18. Proiessor Bedford lost his life yesterday morning while bathing in the Mailpool at Whangarei. Cries for help were heard by a previous bather, who returned to find Dr Bedford sinking for the last time, but lie was unable to locate him. Others made attempts bv diving, but all wore unsuccessful. The body was recovered by dragging two hours later, THE INQUEST. WHANGAREI, February 18. the coroner's verdict was that death was dite to drowning. The evidence failed to disclose ill-health or any external injury. -The coroner added that the swimminoplace appeared to be treacherous, and the authorities should take note thereof.