INCITING TO RESIST.

Otago Witness, Issue 3327, 19 December 1917, Page 49

INCITING TO RESIST.

PLAYING ON A MAN'S CREDULITY WANGANUI, December 13.

A case presenting remarkable features was heard at the Magistrate's Court today, when Douglas Campbell . Woldie, farmer, Upper Waitotara, was charged with inciting Michael Killalea not to render services required of him as member of the Expeditionary Force'. " Killalea, who came to the dominion from Ireland a few years ago, said that when ho received notice that he was called up Woldie told him to plant himself on a section, and assisted witness .to make a dugout, which was concealed with branches in a lonely spot. Witness stayed seven weeks in the hole", and Woldie occasionally used to bring him a piece of bread. Then rain flooded the dug-out and a fresh hole was dug in higher country. Altogether witness was hiding for nine monthj, working in the day for Woldie, but making for the retreat if strangers were reported in the district. Witness said Woldie informed him that the military authorities wei - e shooting deserters in Wellington or taking them out to sea and dropping them overboard. Ho was afraid to give himself up as he believed he would bo shot. Finally, witness made for the bush, where the police located and apprehended him. Witnesses said Killalea ww a physical wreck when arrested. He appeared normal, but a simple, countrified sort of man. Inspector Hendry said the charge against Woldie was a serious one. Tho_ maximum penalty was three years' imprisonment. Defendant pleaded not guilty and was committed to the Supreme Court for trial, bail totalling £3OO being allowed. *