CREDITORS' MEETING.

Otago Witness, Issue 1905, 25 May 1888, Page 10

CREDITORS' MEETING.

He James Pickering. An adjourned meeting |of creditors in 'the estate of James Pickering, of Portobello, farmer, was held on Friday afternoon. There were four creditors prei sent, and in the absence of the assignee Mr Ridley was voted to the chair. Mr Webb appeared on behalf of the assignee, and Mr D. M. Stuart for the bankrupt. Mr Webb said the former meeting had been adjourned in order that the debtor should prepare for the assignee a statement of his transactions for the six months prior to the bankruptcy. The statement now* presented showed him to have paid away £71 more than he had received. - Mr Stuart said bankrupt had kept no books, and he had to get out of him from memory the material that the statement comprised. He could not account for the discrepancy, but there had been " swopping " of cattle, &c The assignee not being present to continue the examination of the bankrupt, Dr Coughtrey said he should, in view of ulterior proceedings, object to any questions being asked the bankrupt except on oath. The Chairman : In that case I suppose we cannot go on with any business at this meeting. Dr Coughtrey: Unless the other creditors overrule me. I will move—" That the bankrupt be subjected to a public examination in the Supreme Court." Mr Holmes seconded this, which was carried unanimously. Dr Coughtrey then moved—" That in the opinion of the creditors there are several things iv connection with this bankruptcy which render it desirable that the assiguse should take action under the summary clauses of the act." Mr Webb : Against the debtor ? Dr Coughtrey : I did not say against the debtor. I was careful in wording my motion. Mr Holmes seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously. Mr Webb remarked that he did not know whether there was anything in the estate. The assignee was always willing to take action when there were funds for the purpose. Dr Coughtrey : I think there will be something in this estate. I shall be willing, if necessary, to put my hand in my pocket at any rate with the data I have got. I think it is one of those cases in which the Crown should interfere. The meeting then adjourned sine die.

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