ARROWTOWN.

Otago Witness, Issue 2603, 3 February 1904, Page 31

ARROWTOWN.

January 29. — An accident which migtit easily liavo hacS a fatal termination, occtured to -a very old land respected resident of the district. on Sunday last. Mr Ja-ck Williams, who follows tflie occupation cf a miner, and resides near the Arrow Falls Company's claim, Airow Siver, was burning some thistles and tussock. The weather having been bo Tery dry lately, the flames got beyond ibis control, end reached and ignited a shed in which were stored dynamite and caps. While endeavouring to subdlue the flames the caps -exploded, pieces striking the unfortunate xnan in difieient places on his head. Luckily passers-by were made aw»re oi his condition, and -without loss of tim« the sufferer \v?s conveyed in a trap to tho Arrow Hospital, where every attention -was pstid him. by Dr Thomsou. The patient was very weak from shock and severe loss of blood; but I am glad to say he is now making satisfactory progress toward recovery. Jack is a general favourite all over the district, and much sympathy is expressed for him in his trouble. Weather. — We are having very hot weather, and the farmers are crying out for rain. The crops, both cereal and turnips, require water very much. Fears are expressed that if the •weather continues as- at present much longer"-, and then heavy rains come, the potato ciop ■will suffer, as aftergrowth will take place. The Fruit Crop — The hot, dry weather is ripening the fruit very quickly. It is many yeaam since the crop has been as plentiful as it is this yoar. In sorna cases it is Tather a difficulty to even give it awsy, as everyone ftams to have plenty. Through the stores or private growers down-country, people could satisfy all their requirements, s*»d have it delivered at c much lower prioa than tihat ruling in the town mss-kets. Apricots, peaches, and plun)3 are especially plentiful. Drama. — The Taylor-Carrington Co. visited Arrow on Tuosaay last, and played in the hail in the evening. Owing, doubtless, to the threatening weather, there was only a medium house. The company deserved much better support. Often very inferior shows visit the place, and are greeted -with bumper houses, •while companies such as this one, catering for the public in real good «tyl9, have to be content with a very thin attendance.