PATEA.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume II, Issue 154, 3 October 1881, Page 2

PATEA.

(feom our own correspondents.) Ootober 1.

I have nothing of importance to report. People here are not very anxious as to the result of the Maori scare, and feel certain that the Government will take immediate steps to crush the rising. It seems a great pity, and should be strongly condemned, that such exaggerated statements, as from time to time appear, should be spread abroad, which by the folly of perhaps one individual, more or less excited, does infinite harm to so many. However, we are anxiously awaiting the result of the decision, and are willing to do all in our power to once and for all put an end to the trouble. Our port was lively yesterday, three steamers having arrived, the whole of them with large cargoes. The Wakatu brought 30,000 feet timber for Messrs. Bull, who obtained the contract for the station. The earthworks are expected to be finished in about three weeks, and great anxiety is manifested as to the route the Waverley line will take, although it is almost certain to come as a main line through Patea. I learn that some of the settlers on the Whenuakura and Kakaramea have petitioned Government to erect a cattle bridge over the river for settlers' convenience, and it is believed by many that it is intended in an indirect way to press the Government to make a bridge suitable for railway and cattle ; but Ido not suppose their influence will alter the decision of the engineers, that Government will decide as per their report. Cricket, I think, has taken a favorable start this season, and we may possibly be be able to hold our own with Hawera. Our new captain (Mr. Jacob), is a thorough cricketer* beuag well-known in the Marton and other clubß. One great drawback to the enjoyment of the game, will be that, on account of trees having been planted by the Domain Board right round the ground, we shall not be able to graze the same, unless something is done by the Committee to fence the trees. It was suggested at the meeting that some person might tender for a small sum to mow the ground once a fortnight, on condition that he received the hay. It is most unsatisfactory to attempt to play cricket when the grass is so long as to obstruct the ball, and to wet one through and through in damp weather. A meeting of those interested in the formation of a fire brigade was held on Saturday evening ; and also a braj3S band.

The first cricket match of the seasorl Married v. Single, took place on Saturday, and the day being beautifully fine, an enjoyable game was played ; many ladies being present on the ground. The Married men went in first, and were all disposed of for 56 runs ; Jacob being the only scorer of note. The Single men put together 66; Coutts contributing ~ 22 iv good style, and F. Homer (11). It was decided to finish the game next Saturday, ■when the same teams will compete, if possible. Messrs. R. Homer and Bright officiated as umpires.