HOME & FOREIGN CABLES.

Oamaru Mail, Volume XXXV, Issue 10018, 8 December 1908, Page 1

HOME & FOREIGN CABLES.

[By Electric Telegram.—Coi-tright.] (Per Press Association.) Received December 7, at 11.3 p.m. London, December 7. The Hon. Alfred Dobson, Agent-General for Tasmania, travelling alone on a flying visit to Paris, -was returning on Saturday via Boulogne, apparently quite cheerful, and in his normal health, aboard the mail steamer Victoria. He was seen at eight o'clock in the evening, within two miles of Folkestone, sitting on the rail of the vessel at the stern. The mate, approaching, warned him of the danger. Scarcely had he spoken when Mr Dobson lost his balance, threw up his hands and fell : nto the sea, which was calm. The vessel was oing a steady 25 knots, and was stopped as quickly as possible. Lifebelts were thrown and a boat lowered,,and a search was made for upwards of twenty minutes, fruitlessly. It is assumed that Mr Dobson was overcome by giddiness, as he had complained during the previous two or three days of dizziness. It is feared that as he was seated immediately over the screw, that he fell against the blades. His name was ascertained from his portmanteaux. The authorities .at Kensington were informed, and broke the news to his widow, who hastened to Folkestone. Mr Dobson's cousin stated that without further information there could be no suggestion that the fall could have_ been other than accidental. His domestic life and public career were all that could be wished. Since his marriage a few months ago nothing could have been happier than his home, and there was nothing to make him depressed. Received December 7, at 11.15 p.m. Constantinople, December 7. The Turkish Parliament will open on the 14th December. The Porte has sent seven batteries to Mitrovitza. The boycott of Austrian goods is unabated. Paris, December 7. Le Temps says that Rusisa and Tt-aly have arranged a verbal understanding to support their mutual interests in the Balkans whatever happens. London, December 7. Mr J. M. Dodds has succeeded Sir Reginald Macleod as Under-Secretary for Scotland. Paris, December 7. Admiral Germinet has been relieved of his command of the French Mediterranean squadron for criticising in newspaper interviews the navy and the lack of ammunition.