CHRISTCHURCH. August 20.

North Otago Times, Volume XXXVII, Issue 8265, 21 August 1895, Page 3

CHRISTCHURCH. August 20.

The officers of the Bible Christian Church have received a cable from the English Conference, agreeing to the union of that church in New Zealand with the Wesleyan and Free Methodist communions. Mr C. R. Smith, secretary of the New Zealand Cricket Council, has received a cable from P. K. Bowden, secretary of the New South Wales Association, stating that it has been definitely decided to send a New South Wales team to New Z, aland in the middle of December next. At a meeting of the Winter Work Fand Committee to-day, the Mayor e-itd the total amount collected was LI 125 15s 3d, and the balance of the sums allocated to the various local bodies was very small. The committee was about the end of its tether, and unless more money was provided a commencement with the discharging of men would have to be made. Contribution cards had been sent to the Chris church and Canterbury Clubs, and the Christchurch Working Men's Club. The last named had previously contributed L 25, and on the Hat jast sent in there was LI 6a 6d. The liars from the other 1 two clubs had been returned without the ■cratch of a pen. Since last meeting a letter had been received from Mr G. J. Smith, M.H.R. The letter said in effect that the Government was dissatisfied with the way In which the fund was expended. He (the Mayor) had replied at length, denying the allegations, and giving a statement of the work done, the men employed, and the money spent. Various local bodies submitted returns of the work done. It was decided to forward copies to Mr Smith, and that about 50 men at present employed should be discharged.