CASUALTIES.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 11807, 9 August 1900, Page 6

CASUALTIES.

Sergeant Geerin, tho officer in charge of police at Port Chalmers, received intelligence yesterday afternoon of the death, under very painful circumstances, of Charles Brown, a fisherman, aged about 57 years, residing at Deborah Bay. Sergeant Geerin at once proceeded there, and found that Brown, who had been in ill-health for some time past, had died at the house of a friend named Nelson. It appears that Browii, who was a widower, had called a day or two since on Mr and Mrs Nelson, and told them that he felt very unwell. Seeing that he was so they put him to bed, and sent for medical assistance. The unfortunate man, who was suffering severely from rheumatism, was attended by Dr Borrie, who, amongst other things, prescribed a belladonna liniment for his use. On Tuesday morning Mrs Nelson administered a dessert spoonful of what she thought was a mixture to be taken internally, but unfortunately gave him tho liniment instead. The moment the mistake was discovered medical aid was sent for, and Dr Hodges was promptly in attendance. Ho did all in his power for the sufferer, remaining some hours in attendance on him, and when leaving at 6 o'clock on. Tuesday evening Brown appeared much better. He, however, died at 9 a.m. yesterday. No doubt an inquest will take place. A painful accident happened' at Ravensbourne yesterday to a. 13-year-old boy named Moller. Along with a number of other boys Moller was engaged at what has become a favourite amusement with the youths of the district—sliding down the rails of the over bridge at, the Eavensbourne railway station — when he overbalanced and fell to the ground. He was immediately picked up and carried to his homo, and medical aid called in, when it was found that he had broken his left thigh and shoulder. At latest advices he was progressing as well as could be expected. The practice -which caused the accident is far too common, and should be put a stop to.