NORTH OTAGO.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21300, 2 April 1931, Page 9

NORTH OTAGO.

(From C>ub Special THE SUNSHINE The total sunshine recorded by Mr D. S, Bain, of Oamaru, for March was 172| hours as compared with 196 J hours for the corresponding month of the previous year. The daily average during the month was shr 34min, while on eight days there were over eight hours sunshine; three days over 10 hours; 13th and 14th each 11 three days nil. TOTARA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH The annual social gathering of the Totara Presbyterian Church was held in the Totara Hall on Tuesday evening. There was a large gathering present, and a very enjoyable evening was spent. The Rev. Mr Hogg presided, and' said that he was pleased to see so many present, and hoped that the annual socials would continue to be pleasant and successful functions. During the evening the Rev. Mr Hogg gave a very interesting address on South America and some of his experiences in that country wheii he was a missionary there about 20 years ago. Ho stated that there was very liittle to bo said of South America itself, but that it was a vast country cousistipg of large rivers, huge mountains and greiat pampas, and plateaux, the area being about 8,000,000 square miles, as compared with New Zealand of 103,656 square miles. Of Latin America not only the souflth but the central belonged to Spain, but the country was now split up into republics and run by their own Governments, with the exception of British, French and Dutch Guiana. The population consisted of mostly Spaniards. He considered that it was a pity that South Americii was not peopled by the Anglo-Saxons who first of all settled there many years ago, as it would have made all the difference in the world to the country to-day. He went on to say that he saw a good deal of Bolivia, a fair amount of Chile, and a little of Uruguay, Peru hnd Argentine. Mr Hogg stated that accompanied by Mrs Hogg, he first of ail sailed for Montevideo, the population of which was then about 400,000 people. On the east of La Plata, 125 miles from Buenos Aires, were two rivers, Parana and TJriuquay, of 200 miles in length and 140 miles, wide at the mouth, and which led into Plata. The waters were very muddy to : about 60 miles out to sea. In the town there were many striking things to be seen it being a mixture of ancient and modern, with narrow and wide streets.. In tjia wider streets there were electric trap is, while in the narrow streets the trams were drawn by mules. There were a number of beautiful plazas (parks), m which there were beautiful trees and ! statuary. There was one magnificent straat called the “18th of July,” and was regarded as the finest street in South America; After leaving the town he proceeded past the Falkland Islands and Straits of Magellan where the snow reached! right to the water’s edge. He then wept on to Punta Arenas, the most southerly town of importance in the world. The next stopping place was Tierra del Fuego, where many Britishers owned, sheep stations. After sailing through the straits to Coronel, he proceeded on to Valparaiso. This was a most interesting plajce, with a horse-shoe harbour, the waters in which were very deep. In 1906 an earthquake occurred there, 1000 people beinjg killed, while the damage was estimated ut about £20,000,000. A striking thing about Valparaiso was that severe cyclones very often swept over the town, with the result that ships had always to be kept facing seawards with steam up. After a week at this town we went to Southern Chile, which he regarded as a fine Country. In Northern Chile the country was very dry, the earth being full of nitrate of soda, borax, and iodine compounds. These seemed to work their way ■ up through the ground, and the people gathered it up to send away. The chief town of Northern Chile was Antofagasta* which is 13,000 feet above sea level. Bolivia was the nest stopping place, and was noted for its great silver; mines. He then travelled by mule over the mountains for four and a-half days to ihe missionary station at San de Buena Vista. A very delightful programme of music was given during the evening! and thoroughly enjoyed. Ihe following contributed items: —Mandolin quartet— Messrs C. Hollow, W. M‘lntosh, _A. Richardson, and T. O’Donnell; recitation, Miss R. Doak; pianoforte, solo, Miss M. Gillies; song. Miss F. Reid; 1 recitation. Miss A. Gillies; song, Miss N. Sinclair; pianoforte duet, Misses A. -and M. Gillies; violin solo. Miss M* Ballantyne; song, Mr Ewing; violin solo, Mr C. Hollow; instrumental trio— Messrs W. and M. Sinclair and S.'. Hall. The accompaniments were played by by Misses A. Ballantyne and M. Lillies. Mr Moir thanked ihe performers for their assistance in making the evening such a success and also Mr Hogg for bis interesting and educational address. BOWLING A match between the Awamqa and Palmerston Ladies’ Bowling Clubs resulted in a win for the former. The following are the results (Palmerston names mentioned first); —Mesdanies Fraser, Philip, ’Ross, M'Lead 12, Mesdames Rusbatch, Lee, Jenkin, Soriey 18; Masdames Ingram, Cameron, MTlitchie, Thoanas 17, Mesdames M'Narry, M'Donald, Gerrie, Kennedy 20; Mesdames Martin,' Scott, MTlitchie, Fraser IS, Miss Watsoai, Mesdames Miller, Tomkins, Bridgman 11; Mesdames M'Henny,. Sutherland, Thomson, Korner 12, Mjsa Smyth, Mesdames Thomson, Benson, Day 16. Champion Singles—Mrs Soriey. • Champion Pairs—Mesdames Smyth and Tomkins. , , _ , , , Champion Rinks—Mesdames ilna batch, M’Donald, Jenkin, Day. CRICKET NOTES

The following are the averages for the Albion senior team for the season:

A. Brooker has been the most consistent player for the Albion team, this season, heading both the batting and howling averages. His double century jn the match against Union will probably stand for a long time as a North Otago racord. Sampson improved steadily throughout the season, and holds second plan*; on the batting averages, while Rackley was always prominent as a bowler and secured the second best average. M'Laren and L. Brooker bore the brunt of the attack throughout the season, but the field let them down at times, and their averages suffered accordingly. Davey and Geiddes also bowled a good deni, but until the fieldsmen improve in their catching the bowlers will have a hard time. The play all round improved as the season progressed, and the Albion team very creditably fought its way from the bottom rung on the competition ladder to runners-up, equal with Oamaru. The Union senior team, winners of the North Otago competition, will Jcavo tomorrow on their usual annual cricket lour

ACTIVITIES OF THE DISTRICT.

Correspondent.) of Central Otago. The players look forward to this annual visit to the hospitable people of Central, and their stay on this occasion is sure to be as enjoyable as any of the prior occasions. Matches are to be played against Naseby, Patearoa, and the Maniototo County representative team. MAJESTIC THEATRE A special programme has been selected for to-morrow (Good Friday) night, being in keeping with the season. It is “Love Never Dies,” and is a George FitzMaurice production for First Natoinal Pictures, and tells of the romance of a little French girl and a reckless young British war aviator. In the opinion of critics, it more than justifies the producer’s judgment and the many months spent in filming it. Colleen Moore and Gary Cooper play the main roles. It is a synchronised sound and music production. On Saturday “ The Big House ” (which had an extended season in the north on account of its popularity) will be the main attraction. MAGISTRATE’S COURT The weekly sitting of the Oamarn Magistrate’s Court was' held yesterday morning before Mr H. W. Bundle, S.M. For riding a bicycle at night without a light, John Robbie was fined 3s (costs 12s), CLAIM ON SALE. T. S. Nichol (Mr P. C. Hjorring) claimed £2 10s from T. H. M'Enchrnn (Mr G. A. Pollock), ns balance due on the sale of goods, of which 10s was paid into court. Both parties were railwaymen, and the sale took place when plaintiff was transferred from Herbert to Oamaru. Evidence was given showing that the sale of goods was for £l6 10s, of which defendant had paid sums of £5, £3, and then £6. Plaintiff stated that he sold a shed to defendant for £B, and defendant denied that such was the case, and that, he had sold the shed on plaintiff’s behalf for £6. His Worship held that the plaintiff’s evidence was substantiated by the production of receipts and .account, and judgment was given for plaintiff for £2 (costs £1 18s). MAINTENANCE ORDER CANCELLED. The hearing of the complaint of Rewai Matanganui (Mr A. R. Tait) against John David Hepburn (Mr H. J. S. Grater) for the cancellation of a maintenance order in respect to his children, was continued. A report was received from the child welfare officer, Wanganui, and Mr Bundle commented that he agreed with the report -that it was difficult to know what to do in this case. The father, however, had a right to the children, and they must go back to him. The order was accordingly cancelled, and all arrears with the exception of £lO remitted. MAINTENANCE COMPLAINT.

Margaret Joan O’Brien proceeded on complaint against Mortimer O’Brien for maintenance orders in respect to herself and the children. Mr P. C. Hjorring appeared for the complainant, and Mr C. Zimmerman for defendant.

Mr Hjorring stated that both parties had been previously married, and married again in 1923 and lived together until January, 1929, when an arrangement was made for Mrs O’Brien to set up a boarding house, for which Mr O’Brien supplied £4OO, and had since paid rent at 30s a week. The trouble was due to Mr O’Brien's first family, to whom he gave preference over his wife. , It might be suggested that there was an offer to take Mrs O’Brien back, and she would be willing if he discarded his first family. x Complainant deposed that she married the defendant on September 6, 1923. There were two children. In January, 1929, they parted, the trouble being through the first family of the defendant, there being seven children, of whom five were at home. Two girls were at a boarding school, and they were to come home, but the two eldest girls were to leave home. There was not sleeping accommodation for them all. Complainant had a boy of eight years when she married the defendant, who did not like the boy, and he was sent away. When the daughter Norah came home it brought things to a crisis, and the complainant left, receiving £6 and then £5, and in May, 1929, she received £4OO to start a boarding house, and the defendant paid 30s a week rent. He had transferred a mortgage of £BOO to her, but she had to retransfer the deed to the defendant before he would hand over the £4OO. The defendant had paid accounts for the children amounting to £ll or £l2. They had not really had any quarrels, but the defendant seemed to prefer his first family, and that was the whole trouble. She had about £25 left out of the £4OO, and she had £l5O, the balance of her own money which she had before she married. If she had been able to continue the boarding house she would not have brought these proceedings. To Mr Zimmerman: There was always an undercurrent about the children, though she did not actually quarrel with the children. For the last six months she had had to keep help, and the boarding house did not pay. She was run down in health, but that was, only of a temporary nature. She would not return to her husband while the children remained there. She had nothing against her husband and was still fond of him. The two eldest girls were just recovering from illness, hut she could not strain her affection to go back to her husband and help him with the girls. To Mr Hjorring: Witness said she did not get on with Norah or Dot, the two eldest girls, and it was impossible for her to live with them. Mr Zimmerman, for the defence, said the parties mutually separated, and complainant had said that unless defendant got rid of the first family she would depart. Defendant had a horror of court proceedings, and had let her go, but thought she would return. He doubted if reasonable grounds could be shown for complainant leaving home. Mortimer O’Brien stated that no arrangement was made as regards the children when they married. When they got a wire from Norah that she was returning unexpectedly, his wife said: “Then I’m going to get out.” Witness said he could not help it as he could not turn his back on his family, especially when in ill-health. His income was about £450. He also ran a taxi car, but he made nothing out of it as prices were down to bedrock. Five children lived with him at present, and Norah and Dot were almost invalids. It cost him £6 a week to live. He had paid £2OO in medical bills in 18 months and had £215 to meet. He did not allow any quarrelling between his wife and children, though there was unpleasantness between them. He would be pleased if his wife returned, and also her two children. At this stage Mr Bundle commented that he did not think it reasonable to ask the wife to return home and live with the first family, and Mr Hjorring intimated that complainant would return home if defendant provided his first family -with another home. The case was accordingly adjourned to allow the parties, if possible, to come to an amicable settlement, Mr Bundle commenting that when defendant married a second tinig there Was no question but that the first family could not stay. CIVIL CASES. Judgment by default was given for plaintiffs in the following civil cases: George Frith v. William Smart, £.14, costs (£2 ICs); W. A. Webb v. M. O’Bosde, 15s, costs (10s); J. A. Amies v. J. J. Poison, £9 14s 9d, costs (£1 12s 6d); John Swindley v. G. B. Rivers, £2, costs (£1 5s 6d). ALLEGED SLANDER Practically the whole of the day was occupied in hearing the action yesterday, at the Magistrate’s Court, in which Daisy Esther, a married woman, of Kakanui,

claimed £IOO damages from James M'Donald, of Kakanui, for alleged slander and assault.—-Mr R. D. H. Swindley appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr C. Zimmerman for the defendant. —The statement of claim alleged that the defendant on December 14 falsely and maliciously uttered words about the plaintiff meaning that she was an unchaste and immoral woman, and that the defendant struck and assaulted the plaintiff. The plaintiff, Daisy Esther, wife of David Esther, Kakanui, stated that their property adjoined the lime kilns at Kakanui. On Sunday, December 14, she saw M'Donald lashing their cows with a stock whip and running them towards their home. Her husband ivas with her, and they went to meet M'Donald and asked an explanation. M'Donald replied: “It’s all right, my son, they’re always on the property. He added that it had been discussed at the last meeting of the Lime Kiln Committee, that their cows were always on the property. Her husband said that if M'Donald had been a man he would have complained to him. There was an argument between her husband and M'Donald over some work. She knew M'Donald, who was very heated and annoyed, was not speaking the truth about the work. She asked her husband to come inside, and said M'Donald could not sijeak the truth, nor had he told the truth in a car ease. As they were walking away M'Donald said: “You go inside. Everybody in Kakanui knows what you are. - ’ Witness replied that she had lived an honest life, and she was very annoyed and was sorry for what she said in applying a certain term to him. It was then M'Donald told her to go inside and used the words which led up to the action. A car was on the road containing Mrs M'Donald, the son and his wife and Mrs Tom Wilson. M'Donald then made a hit with a stock whip, but her husband took it from him. He struck her on the arm with his fist, and there was a bruise for a week. Mrs M'Donald got out of the car, and told her not to take any notice of M'Donald, as he was in a bad temper. She replied that she was annoyed at what M'Donald said, and was in tears. It was not true, and she would make M'Donald apologise. She saw M'Donald a month later, on January 14, when she stoned him, because she was going to get her revenge for what he called her, M'Donald then used the same term three times. On February 21 she saw M'Donald at her gate, when ho was travelling on a trolly on the railway line. Vincent M'Donald and another young man named Alan, were on the trolly, and M'Donald called out the same term, and they all three burst out laughing. Cross-examined: Witness said when they saw M'Donald lashing the cows they walked down to meet him. and her husband spoke to M'Donald. When he could hit the cows with the whip he did so, and was throwing his arms about like a madman. She was not worked up about the cows, but her husband was. That was the first occasion M'Donald lashed the cows. Those in the car could hear what was said. _ She denied using abusive language or saying anything out of place. She denied using the word " mongrel ” or another term, but called him by another name. M'Donald was in a raging temper and she thought it degrading for M'Donald to use the words to her. Plaintiff was subjected to a lengthy cross-examination by Mr Zimmerman. Vicent Hector M'Donald. son of the defendant, stated he knew Mrs Esther. In February he and his father, and Allan M'Tntosh were on a trolly passing Mrs Esther’s house. He did not hear his father use the words attributed to his father. He had never hoard his father call anything to Mrs Esther, ns he had always ignored her. He could not remember any particular Saturday afternoon in February. He had never laughed at Mrs Esther, as he had no occasion to. David Esther, dairy farmer, Kakanui, gave evidence corroborative of that of his wife.

James M'Donald, manager of the M'Donald Lime Kilns at Kakanui, stated he had occasion to go around the lime kilns on December 14. He saw Esther’s stock there and he took a stock whip to drive the cows off the hill. He cracked the whip and hit the nearest. Halfway down the hill the Esthers ran over and shouted to him to leave their cows alone. He informed the Esthers that the company had decided to impound all cattle straying on the property. Esther said: “ To hell with your company.” Mrs Esther called out in a loud voice, but he denied using the words attributed by the Esthers to him. Mrs Esther threw herself at him and tried to catch him by the throat, and he pushed her off, and took the stick from Esther. Witness denied imputing that Mrs Esther was immoral, but referred to her tongue. He said everybody in Kakanui knew what Mrs Esther’s tongue was. She had a most uncontrollable temper, and her tongue ran away go that she did not know what she was saying. She had blackguarded half a dozen people in Kakanui. He did not think he should apologise, but rather that Mrs Esther should apologise for her language. At this stage the case was adjourned until April 21. BANKRUPTCIES The only bankruptcy in Oamaru so far this year was recorded last month. ST. JOHN AMBULANCE During March the St. John Ambulance attended to four accidents and 11 removals, covering a distance of 442 miles. PERSONAL Queen’s Hotel.—Mr W. Cohen, Mr R. Anges (Wellington), Mr H. Blodorn, Mr M. S. Manning (Christchurch), Mr B. L. Blodorn (Timaru), Messtrs Todd (2) (Invercargill), Mr T. S. Bridgeman, Mr J. Bradley, Mr N. Hogg, Mr N. Manhirn, Mr H. C. Browctt, Mr C. A. Latimer, Mr F. Smith, Mr and Mrs Crawford, Mr and Mrs Orr, Mr W. Thompson (Dunedin). New Club Hotel. —Mr M. Hannon, Mr A. E. Higgins, Mrs D. Bock, Mrs G. Jones, Mr C. Neal, Mr H. Elder, Mr and Mrs I. W. Fergusson (Christchurch), Mr T. Loekhead (Balclutha.), Mr L. Poff (Invercargill), Mr A. Newson, Miss R. Allen, Mr and Mrs W. Allen, Mr and Mrs E. Tamblyn (Dunedin), Mr W. Raikes, Mr F. Robb (Wellington), Mr A. H. Richards, Mr E. R. Ingram (Timaru), Mr W. J. Manuel (Moa Creek), Miss L. M. Becroft (Auckland), Mr J. Rennets, Mr and Mrs Woodehouse, Mr H. W. Weavers (Roxburgh). POPULAR POSTAL OFFICER On the eve of his retirement on superannuation after 40 years’ service with the department, Mr J. Henderson, accountant at the Money Order and Savings Bank branch of the Oamaru Post Office, was met by his fellow officers at a social evening to bid him farewell and to wish him good luck and happiness during his retirement. The chief postmaster (Mr W. P. Aldridge) presided at the function, which was one of the largest held at the Oamaru office, as almost every available officer was present, and the expression of goodwill was a striking tribute to a very popular postal official. Mr Aldridge made a presentation of a travelling rug to Mr Henderson, and a Xylonite toilet set for Mrs Henderson, and in doing so referred to the loss the departmental officers would suffer through the breaking of a very pleasant association with Mr Henderson. He was a very capable officer, who had served in many positions in different parts of the Dominion, eventually coming to Oamaru 15 years ago. He had a wide general knowledge, know every phase of the department’s activities, and was completely master of all the intricate points connected wdth the Money Order and Savings Bank branch. His opinion, whenever sought, was freely given, and was always sound. Mr Aldridge read out extracts from a valedictory letter from the secretary to the department (Mr G. M'Namara), which showed that Mr Henderson was highly thought of by the administration. In conclusion, Mr Aldridge thanked Mr Henderson for his many kindnesses and courtesies, and expressed best wishes to Mr and Mrs Henderson for a happy future. Messrs J. M'Namee (mailroom), A. L. Upchurch (telegraph), A. Napier and H. C. Lightwood (Money Order branch) also con-

ti gratulated Mr Henderson on completing 40 years’ service, and gave voice to their appreciation of his value, both as an officer and a friend, expressing best wishes to Mr and Mrs Henderson, ivlr Henderson, in replying, expressed gratitude and thanks on behalf of Mrs Henderson and himself for the handsome and useful presents. They deeply appreciated the large gathering of friends and their kind words, and he sincerely thanked them for all their kind wishes. As he looked over his 40 years’ service he could say that the officers at Oamaru, both past and present, were as fine a body of workers one could wish for. He was impressed with the wonderful kindness of his fellow officers that day. RAM AND EWE FAIR The annual ram and ewe fair of the North Otago Agricultural and Pastoral Association was held at the show grounds yesterday, when there were excellent entries submitted to auction. The attendance of buyers was a large one. ; and the prices, though down on last year’s values, were on a par with those at recent fairs. The details were as follow: — STUD RAMS. National Mortgage and Agency Company, Ltd., sold: Account T. S. Little, 1 one-shear Border Leicester ram, Alex. Scott (Hakataramea) ISjgns; account R. and J. Simpson (Tokarahi), 1 one-shear Border Leicester ram, W. H. Simpson BJgns; account G. P. Johnston (Alma), I one-shear Border Leicester ram, T. Lockhead (Balclutha) 14gns. North Otago Farmers’ Co-operative Association, Ltd.: Account T. S. Little (Corriedale), 1 two-shear Border Leicester ram, J. R. M'Culloch lOgns; account R. and J. Simpson, 1 one-shcar Border Leicester ram, J. Christie 9gns. Dalgety and Co., Ltd.: Account T. o. Little, 1 one-shear Border Leicester ram, H. Ruddenklau lOgns; account R. and J. Simpson, 1 one-shcar Border Leicester ram, Sgns. SOUTHDOWN. National Mortgage and Agency Company, Ltd.; Account B. Butt (Ngapara), R. Barr, 1 at Signs, A. C. Hurst 4 at 4igns; account P. W. Borrie, H. J. Ewing 2 at CJgns, Simpson (Papakaio) 2 at Signs; account G. Simpson (Kia Ora), Miss Garrow 2 at 7gns, A. J. Gillies 3 GAgns, , North Otago Farmers’ Co-operative Association, Ltd.: Account P. W. Borrie (Oamaru), J. H. Beckingsale 2 at CSgns, J. Richardson 1 Signs, Brown Bros. 1 4^llß. ° Dalgety and Co., Ltd.: Account P. W. Borrie, R. C. Ruddenklau 4 Signs. National Mortgage and Agency Company, Ltd.; Account G. Simpson (Kia Ora), 5 one-shear rams, G. Newlands (Incholme) 5 Olgns. BORDER LEICESTER. National Mortgage and Agency Company sold: Account R. and J. Simpson, o one-shear rams, A. M'Leod, Signs; account J. R. Mitchell (Weston), 5 on ] < ;’ shear rams. L. Priest, 2 Signs, 0. Howell, I. Signs; J. R. Cleave 2, Sgns; account John Reid, 5 one-shear rams, Alex. Wills 2, 6gns, Brown Bros. (Kakanui), 3, sgns: account James M'Cone, 5 one-shear rams, W. H. Ballantyne 1, Signs; J. H. Andrews 4, Signs; 1 account J. R. M'Culloch (Ngapara), W. M'Pherson (Hilderthorpe) 2, Signs, J. Newlands 3, 4gns; account W. Aiteheson (Herbert), F. R. Saunders (Papakaio) 5, Signs; account T. S. Little, A, C. Murray 5, 4igns. New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company, Limited, sold; Account J. R. M'Culloch, 5 one-shear rams, J. Dovey 2, Signs, G. Faulkner 3, 2|gns; account John Reid, 6 oneshear rams, W. Anderson 1, Signs; D. Malcolm 4, 4Jgns; account J. R. Mitchell, 10 one-shear rams, A. C. M'Lean 1, 4igns, E. Dunstan 4, Signs, Malcolm Bros. 2, 4gns; F. Faulkner 3. Sgns; account It. and J. Simpson, Mrs Fisher 2, Signs, and 2, Signs, W. Winchester I, Signs; account H. Ruddenklau (Waimate), 4 oneshear rams, C Hayes 1, Signs, Wilson 3, Sgns; account T. S. Little, Brown Bros. 1, 4lgns, J. Grant 3, Signs. Dalgety and Co., Ltd., sold: Account T. S. Little, A Brown 5, Sgns; account John Reid, Kemp Bros. 1, Signs, Malcolm Bros. 4, 4igns; account James M'Cone, J. M. Stewart 4, 4gns, and 1 at Sgns; account J. R. M'Culloch, J. Smillie 2, 4gns, J. Whitham 3, 4gns; account J. R. Mitchell, D. Malcom 1, Signs, T. Dunstan 3, Sgns; account Alex. Wilson, Evans Bros. 5, Sgns; account John Chisholm, G. Newlands 2, 4|gns; account J. R. Mitchell, W. Malcolm 1, Signs, C. J. Conlan 3, Signs; account H. Ruddenklau, W. Malcolm 2, 4gns, A Scott 2, Signs; account Alex. Wilson, H. Waters 1, Signs, D. Innes 4, 2|gns; account Alex. Wilson, C. Robertson 5, 2Jgns. Wright, Stephenson, and Co., Ltd., sold:Account J. R. M'Culloch, Mrs Corrigal 5, Signs; account John Baikie, 5, 4gns; account G. P. Johnston, C. Brown 1. 4Jgns, and 4, Sgns; account John Reid, J. Taylor 5, Signs; account R. and J. Simpson, J. S. Woods 5, SJgns. North Otago Farmers’ Co-operative Association, Ltd., sold: Account John Baikie (Glenavy), 5 one-shear rams, J. Judge 2, 4gns, 3 passed; account G. J. Johnston, 5 one-shear rams, Aubrey Bros., 2igns; account John Reid, 5 one-shear rams, J. P. Paton 1, 6gne, Peter M'Leod 4. Signs; account T. S. Little, 5 one-shear rams, W. E. Craig .1, signs, M'Culloch Bros. 4, 41gna; account J. R. M'Culloch,’ 5 oneshear rams, W. L. Gray 3, Sgns; J. Cruickshank 2. Signs; account James M'Cone, 5 one-shear rams, D. Malcolm 2, Signs, J. P. Mulligan 3, Sgns; account John Baikie, 5 one-shear rams, H. M'Gregor 2, Sgns, National Mortgage Company 3, Sgns; account R. and J. Simpson, 5 one-shear rams, James M'Donald 1, Signs, 4 passed; account John Reid, 5 one-shear rams, A. MTntosh 1, Signs, J. Budge 2, 4Jgns; J. Beckingsale 2, 4igns; account J. R. M'Culloch, M'Culloch Bros. 5, 4|gns; account T. S. Little, J. D. M'Leod 5, 4|gns; account Alexander Wilson, D. M'Gimpsey 3, Signs, R. Miller 2, Signs; account J. R. M'Culloch, R. B. Paton 2, Sgns, W. E. M'Gregor 3. 4igna; account John Baikie, MCulloch Bros. 5, Signs; account John "i T GmJ o ch, A. Gardiner 5, 4Jgns; account W. Watson (Maheno) T. A. Medlicott 1, 4igns, J. Gibson 5, 4Jgns; account Alexander Wilson, A. M. A. Scott 5, 2igns; account H. Ruddenklau, E. M'Leod 1 J - Muldrew 3 Sgns; account J. R. M'Culloch, E. M. Duff 1 Sgns, W. H. Ross 4 4gns; account W. Watson, Mrs A. Corrigal 1 4igns, W. H. Ross 3 Signs, G. Fiddes 2 Signs; account J. R. M'Culloch, B. B. Walton 5 4gns, J. R. Newlands 4 44gns, C. Hay 1 Sgns, W. Malcolm 1 Signs, E. Conlan 4 Signs. ENGLISH LEICESTER. Wright, Stephenson, and Co., Ltd., sold: Account R. Fincham, W. Frame 2 Sgns, A. Woods 3 4Jgns. National Mortgage and Agency Compny, Ltd., sold: Account R. Fincham, T. Dennison 2 Signs, J. M'Pherson 3 2|gns; account H. J. Andrew, R. Fincham 1 7gns, New Zealand Loan and Mercantile Agency Company, Ltd., sold: Account J. O. Coop (Little River), W. J. Campbell 12 Sgns, A. D. Wills 1 Signs, P. O’Neill 5 2|gns, A. D. Wills 2 Signs, A. J. Gillies 2 2igns, J. M'Pherson 2 2igns, J. G. Walker 2 2igns, C. M'Gregor 3 ligns, J. Stewart 1 Ifgns, A. Woods 4 ligns, N. Lory 1 ligns, R. Cameron 3 2|gns. G. Simpson 2 ligns. North Otago Farmers’ Co-operative Association, Ltd., sold: Account R. Fincham, T, Breen 2 Signs, A. Cuthbertsou 3 4gns. ROMNEY MARSH. National Mortgage and Agency Company, Ltd., sold: Account M. Kilpatrick, A. M'Millan 2 2|gns, L. Priest, 2 2|ghs, W. Warnock 1 2|gns. A. M'Millan 2 2|gn s and 1 2|gns, L. Priest 1 Signs. North Otago Farmers’ Co-operative Association: Account M. Kilpatrick, oneshear ram, Signs; account Maereweka estate, one-shear ram, 2gns and Ign; account R. D. Smith, one-shear rani, 2gns. Dalgety and Co., Ltd.: Account R. D. Smith, one-shear rams, 2gus, Signs, 24gns; account M. Kilpatrick, one-shear ram, 2|gns. SHROPSHIRES. Messrs Wright. Stephenson, and Co., Ltd.: Account W. Gardiner, one-shear ram, Sgns. STUD RAMS. Messrs Wright, Stephenson, and Co., Ltd.: Account John Reid, one-shear Border Leicester ram lOgns, to W, J. Mulvena (Otiake); account T. S. Little, twoshear Border Leicester ram 13gns, to John Baikie (Glenavy). SOUTHDOWNS. Messrs Wright, Stephenson, and Co., Ltd.: Account P. W. Borrie, one-shear ram, 6gns; account J. T. Stephens, oneshear ram, Sgns. BORDER LEICESTERS. Messrs Wright, Stephenson, and Co., Ltd.: Account J. R. Gilchrist, one-shear ram, Oigns; account T. S. Little, one-shear ram, 41gns; account J. Reid, one-shear ram, Signs,

NORTH OTAGO COURSING CLUB The following is the draw for the Easter Stake: —Flash v. Electric Zella, Princess Comedy v. Siam Again, Gay Caballero v. Electric Mac, Rio Grande v. St. Kevin, Lady Disdain v. White Chief, Speed On v. Pretty Rose, High Tension v. Fighting Mac, Saloon v. Cypsey’s Warning, Overland Blue v. Pilot, Quizzy v. Gipsy’s Girl, Amorist v. Wild Lupin,’High Speed v. Wild Bloom, Lupin v. Blue Bonnet, Laughing Pi’inee v. Ben Hur, Mountain Rose v. Royal Saxon. FORTH STREET OAKS A meeting of citizens to protest against tlie Borough Council’s decision to cut down the oaks in Forth ’ street was held in St. Paul’s Hall last night, about 80 being present. Mr W. R. Williams, who occupied the chair, explained the object of the meeting, and urged that a strong protest be made, and a motion was carried unanimously—“ That this meeting of residents and ratepayers called to consider the latest decision of the council to have the group of trees in Forth street cut down protests against a reversal of the decision of the full council by a depleted membership of the council and urges that the decision be not carried out until there is a full membership in the council.” In addressing the meeting, Mr Robert Milligan pointed out that many lessons could be learned from the older civilisations, and a man’s life should largely consist in contemplation of th.e beautiful things in Nature. The laws of England provided that trees must not be destroyed. Town planning committees had power over the trees on private property, and they needed such a sentiment in New Zealand so as to restrain the murderous intents of some local bodies. There was no valid reason why the trees in Forth street should be -removed He could not understand the persistent attempt to remove the trees. The beauty of Oamaru depended largely on its trees. Archdeacon Russell spoke of the care taken in the preservation of trees in England, and maintained that unless there was urgent necessity that no trees should be destroyed. He hoped that the good sense of the council and the people would prevail to maintain the beautiful row of trees in Forth street for many years. Mr George Stringer added his protest against what he considered an act of vandalism in cutting down trees that were CO years old. Mr E. P. Lee reviewed the council’s viewpoint as being quite right in procedure, but from' the citizens’ viewpoint exceedingly unfortunate. The question was threshed out by the full council, and a resolution come to, and then, in the absence of the full council, a reversal of the decision was arrived at. As citizens they had a right,to ask some further consideration of the question. Councillors were flouting public opinion. One citizen wanted the trees cut down and others wanted them to remain. What was the underlying motive? Why did they not get the truth? WFy did not councillors tell the public of the necessity for cutting down the trees? They should give an adequate reason, or the trees should be allowed to remain. Dr Douglas acknowledged the support accorded the Beautifying Society by the council, but considered that the council had made an error of judgment. The movement emanated from the citizens themselves, who were backing the Beautifying Society, though it would be a gracious act if the council deferred taking action until the new council was elected. Mr F. Milner wrote expressing complete sympathy with the The destruction of the trees was a violation of sentiment and a gratuitous piece of vandalism. The removal of the trees would detract from the fair name of their town. Messrs Milligan, Lee, King, Williams, Jones, Brown, M'Dowell, Stringer, Archdeacon Russell, and Dr Stubbs were appointed a deputation to wait on the Mayor (Mr Frank Crawshaw) on his return from the north.

Three petitions, signed by 60, 140, and 155 residents, respectively, have been forwarded to the council on ihe matter.

BATTING In. N.O. H.S. R. Av. A. Brooker .. 15 0 130 504 33.6 E. Sampson .. 15 4 *52 223 20.27 R. M'Laren .. 14 1 54 216 16.61 T. Jacobs .. 11 1 33 166 16.6 G. Taylor .. 11 1 53 141 14.1 L. Brooker .. 13 2 24 136 12.36 C. Davey .. 14 1 40 154 11.87 G. Gecldes .. 14 0 45 165' 11.79 C. Palmer .. 13 4 *35 84 9.33 G. Todd .. .. 10 0 24 65 6.5 H. Rackley 12 2 18 54 5.4 * Not out. BOWLING. 0. M. R. W. * Av. A. Brooker .. 84 16 359 21 17.09 H. Rackley .. 53 14 163 9 18.11 S. Taylor . .. 21 3 100 5 20.00 G. Geddes .. 81 18 367 17 21.58 R. M'Laren .. 166 44 527 24 21.95 C. Davey .. .. 97 12448 19 23.57 L. Brooker .. 130 35 409 16 25.56 G. Todd . .. 15 2 113 3 37.66