The Fever Case.

Gisborne Times, Volume VI, Issue 270, 23 November 1901, Page 3

The Fever Case.

(To the Editor of the Timer.)

Sir,— lt has been frequently asked as to what legislation in New Zealand will load to. In no part of the England-speaking world are there so many diverse laws—or possibly the better term would be enactments—a distinction without a difference. The case of Annie White v. Thomas Steele opens up a large question, and one which the sooner the local authorities consider the better. In writing relative to the matter one feels that lie is treading on treacherous ground—-a chasm in front of him with a contempt of Court writ closely pursuing. But take facts and look tho whole thing in the face. An hotelkeeper by haboring a fever patient in his promises would render himself liablo to punishment. An hotelkeeper who turned out a fever-stricken boarder or servant because of the ailment would be looked on as lower than a brute, and in tho event of death, possibly a verdict of manslaughter would follow. Tho ovidenco (reported fully) tends to show that Mr Steele took, as lie thought, proper steps, and possibly the very same that any other in his position would have done, applying for her admission to the hospital. This was refused. The writer seems to have a lingering remembrance of a fever ward in connection with that particular institution, but as to how that special portion of the establishment is conducted he thanks God ho is not possessessed of personal knowledge. Is it only a thing in name ? I am, etc., N EMO.