THE CATON CONSPIRACY CASE. ARRIVAL OF THE ENGLISH MAIL OFF HOKITIKA.

Nelson Examiner and New Zealand Chronicle, Volume XXVIII, Issue 48, 16 June 1869, Page 3

THE CATON CONSPIRACY CASE. ARRIVAL OF THE ENGLISH MAIL OFF HOKITIKA.

[By Electeic Telegeaph.] Cheistchuech, June 13. In the criminal case, Queen v. Caton and Murphy, for conspiring to steal £3,000, Murphy confessed. The jury found a verdict of 'guilty. On the application of Mr. Travers, the case was reserved for the Court of Appeal, on the grounds that Murphy's confession should not have been received as evidence, and that without it the Judge should have directed the jury that there was no case to send to them. It is not expected that Caton will be able to produce such heavy bail as is demanded — namely, two sureties in £1,000 each, besides himself for £2,000. Murphy, who was simply Caton's tool in the transaction, was recommended to mercy, and sentenced to three months' imprisonment. He will be liberated on producing two sureties for £100 each that he will make his appearance at the Court of Appeal. "Wellington, June 15, 7-14, p.m. A heavy sea is running at Hokitika ; consequently, an effort made to tender the Eangitoto proved unsuccessful. The latest intelligence is that she is unable to remain in the roadstead in consequence of the increasing -wind and sea. She has therefore gone to sea northwards, possibly to Wellington, and will probably land the mails at Grey mouth. Mr. Eox opens the debate on the "Noconfidence" motion at seven. Intense excitement is manifested. It is presumed Mr. Stafford will be in a minority of four or five ; however, at present the result is doubtful.