MASTERTON.

New Zealand Mail, Issue 915, 13 September 1889, Page 19

MASTERTON.

fFROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.) September 11. For several days past there have been signs of approachiug bad weather, but it seems that the Btorm burst over the Wairarapa a day later than elsewhere. Monday night was pretty blowev, and yesterday, too, there was a good deal of wind. It was not till near midnight, however, that the nor’-wester set in with full force, being accompanied by terrents of rain. No damage worth mentioning was done ; indeed, the country ought to benefit largely by the fall of rain, which was much wanted.

The Wairarapa North County Council has resolved to pay the amount claimed by the Charitable Aid Board. The result of the deputation having shown members that it would be quite uselesa to offer further resistance. The money will, I understand, be paid out of the ordinary rates this year, but any further payments will be met by striking a special rate, to show the ratepayers what the calls of the Board really mean. The Borough of Greytown has also decided to comply with the demand, and I am inclined to think that the other bodies interested will follow suit at their next meetings. A meeting was held on Monday night to discuss the affairs of the borough and to give the candidates for the vacant seats in the Council an opportunity to express their views. The Mayor gave one of his usual free shows, and but little was heard of the candidates. The poll will be taken to-morrow.

Large quantities of flax are being sent away every week, and I am glad to note that a great deal of improvement has taken place in the quality of the fibre turned out at most of the mills. I have been informed that at one of the mills, where everything is done under contract, the cost of production is only L 5 15s per ton.