EXTRACT FROM SYDNEY PAPERS.

New Zealand Colonist and Port Nicholson Advertiser, Volume I, Issue 23, 18 October 1842, Page 3

EXTRACT FROM SYDNEY PAPERS.

(From the Sydney Morning Herald,)

Naval Court Martial. —A naval Court martial was held on Monday last on board H.M.S. Blenheim , to investigate a charge of drunkenness, which was prefered against Lieutenant Christopher, of H.M.S. by his Commander Captain Nias, C. Bi The Court was composed of Captain Chads, 0. B. } Captain Kuper, Commander Glasse, and Commander Reynolds. After a lengthened investigation, Lieutenant Christopher was honourably acquitted of the charge. Mr. Purser Dobbins, of the Calliopei officiated as Judge Advocate. The Court was crowded by officers of the Fleet; among whom the inquiry excited much interest, and who most unequivocally expressed their satisfaction at the verdict of the court. We are told the accused is much esteemed by his brother officers. It is said the specific charge originated, in Lieutenant Christopher having fallen down in a fit, on the day in question, and cut his chin. The very conclusive evidence of the surgeon of the ship, Mr. Bankier, also satisfied all present; that the charge would not have been preferred had Captain Nias been at time in good health. Unfortunately, when this occurrence took place, he was confined in his cabin by severe indisposition.