CONSULTATIONS.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 7003, 26 July 1884, Page 3

CONSULTATIONS.

TO THK EDITOB. Sir,—As the police seem powerless to deal with this species of gambling, the evil effects of which most will admit, do you not think that they might be put a stop to by the post-office officials refusing to deliver letters addressed to the norn de plume under which the promoter hides his identity? The fact that the promoters of these gambling concerns take only communications sent through the post, seems to indicate that herein lies their security, and so, if this be taken away, a fatal blow is struck. Perhaps it may be objected that the post-office officials have no power to do this. I scarcely see how .it can be made out, but, admitting that the Government would be liable to an action, it must be brought either by the asnder of the letter or the promoter of the " sweep." If by the former, it would be in consequence of an implied contract between him and the Government, but the fact that the object was an illegal transaction— i c., gambling—would surely be a sufficient defence On the other hand, if the action were brought by the promoter of the sweep, he must not only, in my opinion, fail in his action, because no contract can here be shown, but would disclose his identity, a thing which he will doubtless be careful not to do. I throw out the suggestion for what it is worth.—l am, &c, _ , _ Lex. July 25.