Mistaken for a Russian Spy.

Manawatu Standard, Volume XLI, Issue 8198, 26 January 1906, Page 7

Mistaken for a Russian Spy.

Result of a Clergyman's Curiosity. Km m The interest which a clergyman, well-known in the South Island, displayed in the age, armament, strength of crew, and so on of a cruiser now in New Zealand waters led to an extraordinary suspicion concerning him being engendered in the mind of a fellowpassenger of his on the ferry steamer from Wellington to Lytteiton a few days ago. The intimate acquaintance which he latter gentleman exhibited conccrning service matters created an impression on board the steamer that he was connected with some branch of the Imperial Defence Forces, and to him the clergyman applied for information, much of which is, indeed, available to the public in various works of reference, respecting the warship. After answering several questions with apparent reluctance the stranger finally checked the inquirer with the emphatic remark, "You want to know too much, sir." The precise reason for his refusal to satisfy further a legitimate thirst for knowledge was revealed shortly afterwards when he solemnly informed others of the passengers on the steamer that the person who had been in conversation with him was a Russian spy! This startling piece of intelligence somewhat disturbed the gravity of some of those to whom he communicated it, for they happened to be townsmen of the clergymen, and they assured him that he was entirely mistaken —that the suspect was not only well known but highly respected, and that, so far from being a Russian spy, he held Russia and all its works mtiic most profound detestation. "You are too young," they were loftily told; "you do not know the pretences that are made by these Russian spies." So firmly convinced was he of the correctness of the conviction he had formed that he expressed his determination to give information to the authorities as soon as he landed. The clergyman is. however, still at liberty, and laughing heartily over the amazing suspicions which his innocent desire for information excited.