MANDEVILLE.

Otago Witness, Issue 2856, 9 December 1908, Page 39

MANDEVILLE.

December 5. — At the time of writing we are having beautiful summer weather, quite a treat »fter the cold winds we have experienced for about a" month. The heavy winds have dried up everything very rapidly, and a good rain would be welcomed by everyone. Elections. — The elections are over, and the farmers throughout the Dominion must .feel extremely satisfied with the results. In no previous Parliament, as far as I can remember, has the small farmer been so "well represented as he will be in the next. The Fanners' Union has scored well, especially at the second ballot. Messrs Phillips, Newman, Dove, Scott, Buick, and Nosworthy are all strong union representatives. There is no doubt about it, the menace of Socialistic legislation brought about by a few agitators has had the effect of awakening tne farmers to the necessity for protecting their own interests. The most noticeable thingin the whole eleotion is the triumph of the freehold. Although the Ward Govern-

ment has gone back with a large majority, the House, as at present constituted, is freehold by an overwhelming preponderence. Then, again, the defeat of the Minister of Lands makes room for another Minister, and the position cannot well be filled by a leasehold advocate, after the results of the election. There is another thing that must give the property holder satisfaction, and that is the defeat of the Socialists. Five appeared before the electors, and four forfeited their deposits, which is pretty convincing that they are not wanted in New Zealand.

General.— Things in general are very quiet about this township at the present time. Everyone seems to be looking forward to a good holiday at Christmas time, and are consequently saving up, as the length of one's puree plays a very,, important part when holiday-making. Mr J. Sheed and his daughter returned from their trip to Great Britain and the Continent last week. They had a great time, and speak in the highest terms of the treatment they received everywhere. Mr and Mrs Crombie, of Otama, also returned by the same boat.

Farm Work. — Turnip sowing is the principal work on the farm at the present time. The double-rid#er and sower is now ueeel by most small farmers, and it is a great saver of time and work when compared with, the old system. The right quantity of seed can be sown, •which saves the laborious hand hoeing to a very great extent. This is an important factor when labour is hard to procure

The Railway Station. — A caretaker has recently been appointed to look ■after parcels at our station. Thie has been a long-felt want. Complaints of parcels going aatray v will now be a. thing of the ■past.