PALMERSTON NOTES.

Otago Witness, Issue 3212, 6 October 1915, Page 35

PALMERSTON NOTES.

PALMERSTON, September 23. The Magistrate’s Court at Palmerston was engaged all this morning in hearing a case of alleged assault- George Goodwin, of Goodwood Bush Settlement, accused William Madams of committing an unprovoked assault upon him by throwing a stone, which hit him on the side, and thereby Caused sufficient injury to need medical attendance. Tho plaintiff stated that Madams was riding up the road, and passed him, but, after going a little way past, got off his horse, and picked and threw a stone at him which hit him on the ribs, at the same time using objectionable language towards him. Dr Barraolough gave evidence as to the nature and extent of the injury. Evidence someivhat contradictory in details waa given on behalf of the plaintiff by Mr Ireland and Miss Ireland. The defendant swore that tho plaintiff struck with a stick tho horse upon which ho (the defendant) waa riding, and afterwards threw the stick at him, whereupon he dismounted and threw the stick back at the plaintiff. Mr F. Gibjiour, for the defence, deposed that he saw the plaintiff Strike the horse and throw the stick at the defendant, thereby giving provocation. Tli is evidence was corroborated by that of another witness. Tho magistrate said that from the evidence of Gilmour a whom he took to bo the only unbiased wit< ness, it appeared that provocation had heels given, and that therefore the case must be dismissed, with costs against the plaintiff. Mr Arklo appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr Hanlon tor the defendant. Tho magistrate remarked that there seemed to ho a great deal of bad feeling among the settlers at Goodwood Bush, and that if any more) complaints came before him he would bind all parties to keep the peace.