BROTHER AND SISTER.

Manawatu Times, Volume LXV, Issue 1901, 22 April 1913, Page 6

BROTHER AND SISTER.

THE CHRISTCHURCH TRAGEDY. (Preao Association. —By Telegraph Christchurch, Yesterday. v John Hitchcock, who is a single man, 41' years of age, was brought into Christchurch Hospital yesterday from Akaroa, with a severe gash in his throat. It was reported to be a case of attempted suicide, and enquiries revealed a sensational story. Hitchcock, who comes from Dunedin, had been staying at Akaroa with his sister. It is reported that he and his sister went for a walk in Graham's valley, when he suddenly drew a razor and attacked her while they were passing through a patch of bush. The sister protected herself with her hands, sustaining severe gashes. Hitchcock threw his sister to the ground, and tried to slash her throat. Ultimately she got free and ran to the nearest house. The assistance of the police was immediately summoned, and Hitchcock was fouud lying on the ground unconscious, with a gash in his throat. He received medical attention at Akaroa, and later was brought to Christchurch by motor car. His condition is dangerous. The sister is a single woman, a resident of Akaroa. It is understood Hitchcock had been suffering from insomnia. Hitchcock was a cabinetmaker by trade and had been suffering from fits of depression. He went to Akaroa for a mental rest. Miss Hitchcock is suffering from shock, but her wounds are not serious. Her brother attacked her first with a stone in a handkerchief and then drew the razor.

children and numbers of children, who would not otherwise bo able to participate in outings and sports arc assisted from the fund Tho school picnic to Pliwmerton was very successful, bfing well attend' (i by scholars and parents.