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Gisborne Times, Volume VI, Issue 166, 25 July 1901, Page 1

William Richardson, a well-known temperance advocate, who was a candidate for Petersham at the recent Par-

liamentary election, appeared at the Police Court, Sydney, on July 13th, to answer a charge of disturbing the congregation of the Pitt street Congregational Church. The officiating minister said that ho heard the defendant say something during the sermon. He then remarked : “ I want you to hear me, and not to interrupt. You are a candidate for Parliament ; but this is not an election meeting—it is a church,” At the conclusion of the sermon ho intimated

that there had been an interruption which ho could not allow, for the sake of those who wished to worship peacefully. If the gentleman who had done it would come to the vestry and apologise, ho would be glad to receive it. If not, ho would bo compelled to jaku the matter bcfoi'e the authorities. The defendant then shouted out: “My name is Richardson, You - can show your Christian' charity by summoning me." There wore about 800 or 900 persons present. The congregation was disturbed by the defendant’s action. The defendant said the only interjection he made throughout the service was, “ You can’t do it,” referring to making public houses respectable. He was committed for trial.

The suicide of Mr Elley, an old settler of Masterton, took place in somewhat of a dramatic setting. The deceased came into Masterton in his usual spirits, and had several drinks during the day. When he arrived home at four o’clock he was in a state of intoxication, and immediately commenced sw ear i n g and abusing the family iiecauso the fire was not burning and the water not ready for killing a pig. Explanations were made, but did not satisfy him, and he said, angrily, “I will do away with myself.” He then proceeded to his room and asked for the key of ttje drawer. This was refused him, and he asked for an axe, but this was also refused. At last he procured a chisel and burst open the drawer and took out a bottle. The family were muoh terrified at his violent demeanor, and tried to pacify him, but all to no avail. Placing the bottle in his mouth, he consumed the contents, and, without uttering a word, fell on the verandah outside. He was dead before a doctor could be summoned. The deceased was 57 years of age, and was born in England. He was one of the first butchers in Masterton, and latterly became, unfortunately, addicted to drink,