INTERCOLONIAL.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 8395, 19 January 1889, Page 2

INTERCOLONIAL.

[By Electrics Telsoraph.—Copykihut.] [Per. Phesh Association.]

A QUESTION OF ETIQUETTE. Melbourne, January 18. (Received Jninmry 18, nt 12.15 p.m.) At a luncheon given in the exhibition buildings by Sir James M'Bain, president,

Mr M'Coppin, Commissioner for the United ' States, said that, America was striving to preserve Iho autonomy of Samoa, but the Australian colonies remained silent. He thought it would bo a most deplorable thing if the independence of Samoa were sacrifice! to the give-and-take policy of European statesmen. Mr M'Coppin's remarks were warmly applauded. Herr Wermuth, German Commissioner, became irritated and left soon. He contends that it was a breach of etiquette to raise a question of foreign policy at an international exhibition.

THE DROUGHT IN AUSTRALIA. Sydney, January IS. (deceived January IS, at l."> 15 p m.) Unless rain falls immediately thousands of heart of stock will perish in the Warialda district. GENERAL ELECTION IN NEW SOUTH WALES. January 19. (Received January lfi, at 1.20 a.m.) The proclamation dissolving Parliament will bo gazetted on Monday. The writs will be issued on Wednesday and made returnable in :sr> days. Owing to a clause recently introduced in the Electoral Act, IH7 members will be elected to the new Parliament instead of the present number—l 24. There are already a large number of candidates in the field. Brisbane, January 18. (Received January IS, at 12.15 p.m.) Distressing accounts are coming to hand from Darling- Downs and the interior of the south-west. The crops are stated to be dying off, and water is disappearing. The heat is excessive.