LUMSDEN.

Otago Witness, Issue 2488, 20 November 1901, Page 31

LUMSDEN.

November 18. — With the exception of one o\ two days we have had a most wretched spring — nothing like it in the memory of the oldest resident. It has been for about two months simply a continuation of exceptionally high winds, often accompanied by cold rains, showers of snow and hail, and hard frost. This state of affairs is causing much concern to farmers and others. The growth of the grain crops and other vegetaticjp is at a complete standstill, and n many cases the braird is stunted and perished as it appears through the surface of the soil to such an extent that experts say it is doubtful if the crops will recover from this check, no matter what favourable change may take place in the way of growing weather. The prospects of the farmers and croppers look anything but bright at the present time, and the same applies to our community at large. As a natural consequence, to the great inclemency of the season is to be attributed much mortality among all kinds of stock, and most noticeably so among newlydropped foals, many dying at their birth or immediately after. Lambs are also dying in great numbers. All this adds to the gloomy aspect of the situation.

Oddfellows. — The Oddfellows' annual church parade is to take place on the last Sunday of the month to the Presbyterian Church, whena large number of members are expected to tak part in Ihe procession.

Caledonian Society. — The annual meeting of-. the Caledonian Society took place about a fort-?' night ago, when a very satisfactory report and balance eheet were presented and adopted, after which, preliminary steps were taken;for holding the usual annual sports on December 25, that, being the only available day throughout the : holidays. Dr Todd was elected president (a very popular selection with the people), and several vice-presidents, office-bearers, and stewards were appointed as the board of directors. Mr G. F. Johnson, J.P., the retiring president, was appointed superintendent of sports. MiJohnson gratuitously and freely gave the use of his paddock in which the sports are to be held. It is situated quite close to the town. Much praise is due to Mr Johnson for his untiring support accorded to this society, as well as to all and everything that concerns the welfare of cur tov/n. At a subsequent meeting , a varied and acceptable programme was drafted, and was placed in the printer's hands, and is now being distributed throughout 'he neighbouring.districts. Given a fine day a successful meeting* is assured. Local Industry.— The energetic proprietors of the Lumsden fellmongery and wool-scouring establishment are making fresh additions to their already extensive premises. I Understand this firm has had a very satisfactory season's operations, and look forward to further expansion in business during the coming wool season.

Tourists. — So far this season there is not much doing in this line. Without doubt, the unprecedented severity of the weather at this time of the year is greatly interfering with the tourist traffic. Messrs Crosby Bros.' line of coaches began running at the beginning ol thiß month, and I must say their teams seem to be in the pjnk of condition, and the plant is thoroughly up-to^te, while Mr Frank Crosbie's handling of the ribbons is equal to anything that has been seen on the Lumsden, to Te Arsau route since ths beginning o? the coaching service, and that is a great deal to sojr. . Health Note. — Sickness in various forms is hanging around our district, old and youngalike being sufferers. Many are complaining of the persistent grip of influenza and its remaining bad effects — a tired, languid feeling, and in some instances much prostration ; but thanks in a great measure to an unlimited supply of fresh air, no fatal results have to be recorded.