DUNTROON.

Otago Witness, Issue 2399, 22 February 1900, Page 39

DUNTROON.

February 12.— 0n the evening, of Friday, February 8, a meeting was held to appoint a committee to raise funds for the fourth contingent. The night was wretchedly wet, and a good many stayed away, thinking the meeting would be postponed. However, about 50 persons were present, and tho meeting made up in enthusiasm what it lacked in numbers. Mr R. O. Campbell, who was unanimously voted to the chair, addressed the meeting in a stirring speech, and was followed by Messrs W. Sutherland and G. Morris. A collection was then taken up, which realised the sum of £12 15s, and a committee was appointed to canvass the district. During the collecting of the monej Mr W. M'Leod rendered some soulstirring music on the pipes, of which instrument he is evidently a master. Several offers of produce, forage, etc., were also promised, and four young men volunteered to go with the contingent if successful in passing the tests namely, Messrs O. Bedford, A. Stock (Duntroon lads), W. White, and W. Charles (from Naseby). None of these were in a position to offer more than themselves, but I have no doubt that should they be accepted Duntroon will not allow them to leave empty - handed. The canvassers appointed have already done good service. Their names are — Messrs A. Bell, L. Bradshaw, J. Jolmstone, J. Rudd, J. Sutherland, W. Sutherland, A. Wills, and W. Yardley. Some disappointment was felt because the meeting was not addressed by the Hon. John M'Kenzie; but no doubt the inclement weather prevented the hon. gentleman's attendance. February 19. — There has not been much improvement to speak of in the weaiJher since I last wrote, as several showers have fallen, thus putting a stop to all harvesting operations. However, by taking advantage of every dry hour, the paddocks are getting cleared of stooks, and stacks are rearing their heads on every hand. There are still a few patches of stuff uncut, and farther back on the hills the harvest has not yet become general. I notice that some of the settlers aie- inclined to chance the weather and thresh from the stook; but in view of the general dampness of the season, this is, I should think, haxdly a XJractice to be approved of. One or two mills are out now, and more are expected this week. Patriotic. — Canvassing has been carried on vigorovisly for funds, and a goodly sum has been collected, I cannot give the exact totals yet ; but shall probably have them in by next week. A committee of ladies has been busy , one lady having collected £8 for the More Nurses' Fund. There will be a concert and dance held here on Friday, the 23rd inst., in aid of the various patriotic funds, and I hear that the tickets are finding a ready sale. ,A strong programme has been arranged, and no doubt, if harvesting is not too pressing, a bumper house will result. I understand that one of our local boys, Mr Stock, has been accepted for the Otago and Southland contingent ; and a rumour is current here that he is to be presented with a horse and outfit. I can't however, guarantee the trutii of this, as information is scarce and hard to get. Pressure on our space compels us to hold over a number of country letters.