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Nelson Evening Mail, Volume IV, Issue 244, 16 October 1869, Page 2

Prospecting Parties. — Some of the No. 2 party returned to town last evening for provisions, and reported themselves to the Committee. A few specimens of quartz were produced, but no gold was discovered in them, although subjected to a most careful examination. The party start again shortly for the scene of their labors, and we trust that on their return , they may be able to make a more favorable report,

Nelson Fire Brigade.— At a meeting* of the Brigade held last night the following letter was received from the Inspector of the Victorian Insurance Company : — To the members of the Nelson Fire Brigade, Gentlemen, Since my arrival here I have had the pleasure of inspecting the Engine House, Plant, &c, of your brigade, as well as an opportunity of seeing what the water supply is capable of doing, and I may state that I am more than satisfied with all I have seen. Mr Fisher, the Company's agent here, will hand you the present year's subscription, £10, and in future will contribute regularly with other offices to your funds. I see by your cash book and balance sheets kindly furnished me by your secretary that the largest amount contributed collectively by the Insurance offices was £65. On behalf of the Victorian Company I would be willing to grant a larger sum to the support of the brigade provided the other Companies would consent to pay in proportion to the amount each had at stake in Nelson within certain limits. This system is fair and adopted everywhere else. The Compauy having the largest number of risks and largest revenue are the largest gainers in having a good brigade, and in exact proportion to others should pay the largest contribution. I hope soon to hear of thi3 arrangement being adopted, by which both the brigade and the Companies will be benefitted. Wishing you still greater success, I remain, yours faithfully, A. H. Jack, Inspector. Unfounded Humours. — An extremely silly rumour is being industriously circulated, to the effect that none but Government officials, and Mr. Curtis' supporters, were allowed to purchase land at Wangapeka, on the news arriving that auriferous quartz had been discovered in that district. Such a report must have originated either in malice or ignorance, as it is without a shadow of truth for foundation. For the short time that the lands were open for sale, it was competent for any one of the public to make purchases, and on the list of buyers we find the names of those, who, although we should be extremely glad -to see them vote for Mr. Curtis, will, we fear, be found at the polling place with intentions of an opposite character. Although several of the Government officers have made purchases, it cannot be asserted that they were induced to do so from knowledge obtained officially, none of those conßected with the Land Department being on the list, and this being the case, we are unable to see why they should not be allowed to risk a few pounds in what, after all, is but a hazardous speculation, as well as any other member of the community. Mr. Curtis at Spring Grove.— -About 60 of the electors were present at the schoolroom at SpriDg Grove last night to listen to Mr. Curtis's address. The chair was taken by Mr. Silcock. Previous to the time appointed for the meeting it had been discovered by the electors that Mr. Gibbs had been misleading them with regard to the receipts and expenditure of the Land-office, and when the correct figures were read from the Blue Book by Mr. Curtis, a very marked effect was produced upon his audience. Several searching questions having been put and answered to the satisfaction of all present, Mr. Arnold proposed Mr Curtis asafitand proper person for Superintendent. Mr. Curtis hoped that the resolution would not be pressed, as the electors had not yet heard what Mr. Akersten had to say, and he thought it far better that they should hear the opinions of all the various candidates before deciding which was the best fitted for the office. A vote of thanks to Mr. Curtis was then proposed by Mr. Ladley and carried by acclamation. The proceedings terminated by passing a vote of thanks to the chairman. Resident Magistrate's Court. — The business of the Court this morning was confined to two or three cases of cattle trespass, when the offenders were fined the usual amount.