RIVERTON.

Otago Witness, Issue 1855, 10 June 1887, Page 17

RIVERTON.

June 6.— This winter has seen a fresh attempt to start a debating society, and judging from the attendance at the meetings that have been held up to the present it promises to be very successful. Two very interesting papers have been read, and two debates have taken place, and in both of which the matter under discussion has been warmly debated on both sides. At the last one — " Is horseracing a desirable amusement"— no less than 46 members voted, and in addition to these 'members the Town Hall was so well filled that some people had to go away. If similar interest is taken in the meetings all through the session, it will have proved a valuable addition to the pleasant ways of spending a winter's evening. Mining. — At the last sitting of the Warden's Court, the company newly formed for working the sludge channel from the Round Hill field, obtained the necessary permission for their special claim and for special charges. Although a lot of ground that is at present unworkable will, by the enterprise of the company, if successful, be rendered available, yet very strong opposition was made to the granting of the original claim, and this met with a certain amount of success, as charges, &c, were reduced. It seems to me that a great deal of " dog-in-the-manger " spirit was shown, as if things went on as they have been going, not a single European would have been left on the field.

School of Mines. — The annual meeting of the School of Mines was held this evening, when a report of the work done last year was read. The financial report showed a hinall credit balance, and there is every prospect of the school being in full swing , again by the end of the month. It is proposed to hold fortnightly meetings, as the weekly meetings proved rather a heavy tax on. members' time. During the. recess a small amount or analysing of stone, &c, was done by the secretary, and this season it is intended that analyses for the improvement of those interested in agricultural chemistry shall form an important part of the instruction. Thus the school will prove of benefit, not only to tho.se engaged in mining pursuits, but also to tbje agriculturist.