PALMERSTON NOTES.

New Zealand Times, Volume LXVI, Issue 3262, 20 October 1897, Page 4

PALMERSTON NOTES.

—■» Special to the New Zealand Times. October 10. Mrs Buick, senr,, mother of Mr D, Buicki is sinking rapidly, and it is not expected she can last long. Her age is 83, and her condition is painless—dying of old age. Till quite recently she was in full possession of all her faculties. Another son, a resident of Masterton, who had come through to see his mother and also his brother James, who is in a critical state, returned last evening. Quite a number of lads are most anxious to be allowed an opportunity to join a training-ship, in order to become acquainted with the details of life on a man-of-war.

It is probable that the production of the “Creation” will be repeated in about a month’s time. Another success is anticipated. * An. unprecedented number of entries is being received in connection with the forthcoming Agricultural and Pastoral Show, attributable, in a great degree, to the zeal displayed by the committee, and notably by the president, Mr McHardy, who has proved himself a most enthusiastic advocate of the interests of the Association in every possible way and on every possible occasion. It is matter for congratulation that every class for which the -250 special prize was offered has filled, that is to say the required number of entries has been received to conform to the stipulations on which the prizes were offered. The actual number of entries in each class is as follows: Romneys, eight; draught horses, seven; Lincolns, five, and Shorthorns, three. The minimum number required was three, so that tho result may bo considered highly satisfactory. There is again an agitation to procure a steam roller for use on the roads in this district. The local. bodies should also obtain some information concerning the u road grader,” one of which has done excellent work in the Hawera district, and has proved a very serviceable labour-saver. Considerable draining operations are likely tckbe carried into effect shortly, with a view of improving the condition of tho Manawatu racecourse. Practical steps are also to bo taken to further protect the course against the encroachment by the river, which threatens, if not checked, to cause serious damage. The man who was knocked down by Mr Abrahams* bull received very serious injuries, though J hear he is doing fairly well. Bub /for assistance being at hand, there ia scarcely any doubt but that the raau must hayo been killed. The bull which attacked him so ferociously had actually been reared by him. Ifc is said that he knew the bull was treacherous and considered dangerous. The weather is still unsettled and cold —not nearly so spring-like as it was a month ago. The grass, however, continues to grow fast. Mr R. MoKuight, nephew of the late Hon John Ballance, who holds a responsible position in the New Zealand Loan and Mercantile, has been a visitor to Palmerston during tho last few days.