THE TROOPS AND THE LATE FIRE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 295, 29 November 1862, Page 5

THE TROOPS AND THE LATE FIRE.

(To the Editor of the Dailt Times.) Sir, —Can you inform me why the troops were not present to render assistance when the most fearful enemy (that we hope we shall eucounter for some lime) presented itself!

It is a practice, I believe, universally adopted in the colonies tor the troops in garrison to turn out immediately an alarm of fire is given, and proceed at once to the spot, in order to co-operate with the inhabitants in their endeavor to suodue it.

In this town, however, half the place (under the influence of a high wind) might be in flames before the men of the 70th would be on the spot. On Monday night they made no appearance, although the fire was so near to them.

Surely, Sir, it is not too much to expect that a body of men, who to all intents and purposes are fel-low-colonists, should take their siiare in a work of such general and vital importance, and become helpers in all times of trial and need. If the Barracks should unfortunately become the scene of a conflagration, do you, Sir, believe there would be any hesitation on the part ot the.civilians to render all the assistance iv their power, despite the Hill to surmount to their isolated'position! Assuredly none. 1 - • An Old Volunteer.

[A messenger was sent from the Barracks to see if there was "any necessity for the presence of the troops, and his report decided the officers not to send them.]— Ed. Daily Times. ~ "

Rumoured Secession from the Scottish Episcopal Ghijkch:.-—We understand that, iv reliable quarters, it is thought that the new code of canons which is in preparation for the Scottish Episcopal Church, may be ibe means of joining that commu nion. . A large.body :6f the clergy and.othei-3. it is reported, intend to enter into relations with the Church, of England if any other ritual than that of the Prayer £ job be adopted,— CouranU