MOSSBURN.

Otago Witness, Volume 02, Issue 2420, 2 August 1900, Page 34

MOSSBURN.

July 30. — We have just passed through one of the mildest winters experienced hero for very many years. With the exception of some sharp frosts in the early part of winter, there has been no cold to complain of. In consequence of this, vegetation has not, as in former seasons, quite disappeared; and it may now be seen to feebly assert itself, and with a continuance of this weather and the advent of spring, we shall soon have our fields clothed in green. Agricultural. — Ploughing is general throixghout this district, while sheep may be seen busily reducing the turnip area. Stock are looking well, and fat mutton is the rule, and not the exception, as in former years at this season.

Coming and Going. — Changes in our midst lately have been many and frequent. Mr Robert Roy bought out his neighbour, Mr James Smith's farm; Mr Paterson, of the Dome station, bought out the farm held by Mr James M'Donald, of Centre Hill; Mr David Anderson succeeds Mr Geo. Williamson in his farm, thus enlarging his own area considerably; Mr F. J. Dyer has purchased Braxton estate, and thug owns an extensive freehold, having previously owned a good farm; Messrs Dalgety and Co. have leased the Dunrobin station, lately in the possession of Mr Hugh Maclean; our hotel, too, has changed hands, Mr Milne having sold out to Mr M'Cauglian, of G-arston. Our local store is for sale, and when this is completed, you will see we have had quite an upheaval here. It is said that young New Zealanders are a discontented race, and fond of change. If so, it ought not to be. What with our climate, our vast resources, and our liberal laws, I think our islands are unequalled in the world. Bub Byron says somewhere that " The world is a terrible blunder." He, however, forgot to explain how.

Educational. — Our school has passed an excellent examination, the most striking feature being the youth of the pupils in all the standards from Ito VII. The parents are wise enough to take full advantage of the system, and give theni the fullest benefit of the entire course. Hamilton Burp school has had a similar examination, and under the new regime, the examination is more searching if not even more severe. Of one thing teachers may rest assured, it is not a bit less formidable than of yore.