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Southland Times, Issue 19772, 21 February 1923, Page 4

At last night’s meeting of the Town Council Messrs A. G. Storrie and H. F. R. Miller were granted licenses to deal in second hand goods. A Westport tdegram states that the Millerton mining dispute has been settled and work will be resumed in the morning. The Gas, Water and Tramways Committee reported to last night’s Council meeting having the matter of abattoir improvements under consideration. “A hardy annual,” said Councillor Glass as the clause was passed.

“It’s an ill wind that blows nobody any good,” was demonstrated in a paragraph in the report of the Tramways Traffic Manager which stated: “As the result of inclement weather during the pasf tw.: weeks passenger traffic has shown an improvement.”

Views of a youthful deputation consisting of schoolboys rose before the Town Councillors as they assembled Last night, as the benches in the Council Chambers were filled by schoolboys under Brother Tarcisius. However, their minds were soon eased as they were informed by the Brother that the boys were there for educational purposes onl v .

“Local firms were never debarred from submitting quotations for imported cement,” stated the report of the Town Engineer to the Town Council last night. “Apparently they did not trouble to submit prices but permitted an outside firm to come in and make an offer.”

With a view of obtaining a direct boat to Bluff from the West Coast of Canada the Invercargill Chamber of Commerce is endeavouring to obtain from Invercargill importers an estimate of the amount of cargo that would be offering if such a boat were obtained.

At a meeting of the importers and exporters committee of the Invercargill Chamber of Commerce held on Monday the complaint that the Bluff Harbour was too small for shipping was referred to the Bluff Harbour Board for its information, and action.

As compared with a similar period of last year ending January 31, the output of gas had dropped 11.2 per cent according to a report submitted by the Gasworks Manager, Mr W. B. O’Toole, the actual figures being 3,889,000 as compared with 4,380,500.

The Invercargill Hardware Association is to confer with importers of explosives in an endeavour to get the restriction removed from the import of explosives through Bluff, Recently Bluff was removed from the list of ports through which explosives could be landed.

At a special meeting of the Town Council held last night prior to the ordinary meeting a preliminary resolution that a special order authorising the raising of a special loan of £4,700 for repayment of the Tramways and Electric Light special order loan was carried.

The Borough Electrical Engineer, Mr A. C. Carmen, reported to the Town Council last night that during January the output from the Powerhouse was 234,230 units as compared with 174,320 for a similar period of last year. The works cost per unit generated was 0.98 pence. During November and December the revenue was £3,116 as compared with £2,637 for a similar period of last year.

The annual report of the New Zealand Master Printers’ Association states: “During the year the printing industry has had to face a continuance of slackness of business, and many members have found it a very anxious time. However, the gradual rise in the prices of our primary products is giving a more optimistic tone to the trade, and we feel that we may look forward to a time in the near future when orders will again be plentiful.”

The want of a telephone has often been felt by the Toa residents and recently they approached the Department with a view to obtaining an installation in that district. In conversation with Mr A. Scott, telephone engineer, he informed a Times reporter that a telephone would be installed at the Toa store within a month. Most of the material for the work had been assembled and they were only waiting for a few minor fittings to come to hand before the work would be undertaken.

“Recommend that 70 old theatre seats be purchased from the Finance Committee for use at the Gasworks Office, Kelvin Street,” was a clause in the Gas, Water and Tramways report zt last night’s Council meeting. “What are they going to do with them ?” asked Councillor Clark in amazement. “I am surprised at Councillor Clark not knowing that the seats are for the balk where demonstrations are to be given,” said Councillor Mackrell. “I thought Councillor Clark knew the Council’s business better.”

The Wyndham Town Hall was crowded on Monday evening last, the occasion being the electrical cooking demonstration under the supervision of Miss Trent, and promoted by the Southland Power Board. Some eight or ten dishes were cooked before the audience at an estimated cost of 8d for electricity. A similar demonstration will be given at the Victoria Hall, Invercargill, on Friday and Saturday next, in the afternoon and evening.

An unusual method of deciding the winners of a cricket match was mentioned before the executive of the Southland Cricket Association last evening when a member mentioned that he had been informed that two junior teams had tossed up to decide a match. The secretary said that one of the teams had advised that it had defaulted for the match in question. “Ah! so that’s how they got over it,” remarked a member. Further light was shed on the matter by another member who said that both teams had been short and accordingly they decided not to play but to toss up, the winners of the toss to have the match and the losers to default. Members appeared to be of the opinion that no points should have been awarded for the match and accordingly it was decided to ask the clubs concerned to give an explanation.

There was a lively scene in one of the wards of the Wellington Hospital at an early hour on Thursday morning, when a hefty male patient in a state of delirium sprang up from his bed, knocked one of the house surgeons aside, and rushed down the ward in his bed clothes, scaring the wits out of the nurses, and smashing anything which came in his way. Near the glass doors at the entrance, he grabbed a chair, and was about to shiver the glass panels when a porter diverted his attention, so, throwing the chair at the porter, the demented one flew through the doors and across the grounds. A hue and cry was raised, in which doctors, nurses, and porters took part, but the man, as if possessed, rushed through the gardens and gained the main thoroughfare, but had not proceeded far when he was captured by a constable and returned to the institution.

The common practice of getting one person to collect for several at the payout window of the totalisator resulted in an incident in which the services of the police were called in at the Gisborne Racing Club’s meeting on Saturday. At first it appeared as though an attempt had been made to pass a wrong ticket through the “pay-out” windovz, but the subsequent investigations by the police cleared up the matter satisfactorily. A man who had backed a winner was going to the “tote” to get his dividend, when three men and a lady with whom he was acquainted gave him tickets requesting him to collect for them, to save time. He accordingly presi ented five tickets at the window, but one [of them was rejected as incorrect, and Ser- ; geant Dempsey, who happened to be stand- : ing in the vicinity, was called on to look ! into the matter. He interrogated the man i who presented the tickets, and also in- : terviewed each of those who had handed i the tickets over for collection. Each was certain that he had given the man the correct ticket, but after a search one of the men discovered the correct ticket, and at once admitted that he must have given an incorrect, one by mistake.

The select home of an audacious mason bee was discovered last week in the study of the vicarage of a well-known Anglican clergyman, who was talking to a friend when the intruder flew inside with a spider in its possession (says the Auckland Star). It disappeared behind a picture, which was promptly taken down and examined. Down the edge of the back of the frame under a fold of paper was a cemented-in home about six inches long. On it being broken about a dozen cells, all partitioned off, and with the skeletons of numerous spiders, were revealed. The mason bee, which derives its name from its constructive ability, catches a spider, stings and sends it into a stupor and then builds a cell in which an egg is deposited with the spider. When the young bee eventually hatches it is thus provided with food. Meantime the mother bee is busy adding to the cells. Mason bees are said to have become pests about Auckland. The clergyman in question is not an entomologist and quickly decided that his restful study, which is locked regularly at nights, shall no longer provide sanctuary for mason bees or any other insects, however interesting or industrious they may be.

Last night’s express was over a quarter of an hour late as the result of heavy traffic on the journey from Christchurch.

The dearth of bird life in New Zealand was remarked upon by Mr Collins, of the New South Wales bowlers, at the civic reception at Dunedin. Mr Collins said that the forest country in the Dominion was practically bare of any sign of bird life. This was a thing to be regretted. The same thing had been noticed in Australia, but he was glad to say that steps were now being taken to remedy it.

A New South Wales bowler, on the Ashburton railway station on Saturday, ventured the remark, states the Guardian, that the train (the first express) he was travelling on that morning was the longest he had ridden in. He also added the Ashburton refreshment rooms were by far the best appointed he had patronised in this country, and of the railway stations he had so far seen Ashburton had the longest platform.

As showing that the old “rangatira” spirit among the Natives is not yet dead, an incident following upon the decision of the Native Land Court at Ruatoki on a boundary dispute is interesting (says the Gisborne Herald). The leader of the unsuccessful claimants rose and stated that there certainly had been much trouble between them over the boundary, but he now accepted the Court’s decision against him, and there would be no more trouble. He would, however, like to know the position of one of his party, who had in exercise of the right claimed, planted maize within a disputed area. “Let him remain there said the representative of the other side. He will not be disturbed.” This magnanimous attitude was fully appreciated by the losing party.

House shortage appears to be just as acute in Dunedin as it is in other centres. As a result of inquiries, a Dunedin Star reporter learned that many people find it practically impossible to secure suitable accommodation. Then, again, the high prices charged by some landlords is meeting with strong opposition. The reporter was informed on most reliable authority that two or three ladies who rushed pell-mell to one of the suburbs in anticipation of securing an empty house received a shock when the owner said with a smile that the rent was 30/- a week. The house in question was a four-roomed cottage, and was not in very good order. Needless to say, the owner found a ready tenant. Another case was cited where the owner of a small three-room-ed cottage, after having the place renovated, raised the rent from 16/- to 30/- a week. He had no difficulty in securing a tenant. The price charged for fttrnished and unfurnished rooms by many owners of property is also beyond the means of most people. One lady who is not in a position to pay a high rent, and who has been trying for weeks to secure a small house, informed the reporter that she was asked to pay 30/- a week for two furnished rooms, and for several other places which she had looked at 25/- had been asked for two unfurnished rooms. It is quite evident, therefore, that the house shortage and the high prices charged in Dunedin are on an equal footing with those experienced in Wellington and Auckland.

A revel Sale of assigned stocks at Smith’s. Men’s Shirts 3/6, 5/6. Piles of other bargains at Smith’s.— (advt).

What promises to be an intellectual treat will eventuate at St. Paul’s Presbyterian School Hall on Thursday evening next, when Rev. Archibald E. Hunt, of Wellington, who is recognised as one of the leading elocutionists of the Dominion, has kindly consented to give one of his popular dramatic recitals in aid of the Presbyterian Orphanages’ Fund. Admission free.—Collection.—(advt.)

A mixture of the old and new.—Thomson and Beattie, Ltd., are busy clearing off all oddments left over from their End of Season Sale and at the same time are opening up very large shipments of New Goods ex Ruapfhu and Arawa. These new goods are being placed on view as they are marked off. Call this week, see the new goods and get bargains in the old. (advt)

Big shipments of fresh and new season’s goods to hand, consisting of Pink Salmon, Salmon Cutlet, large and small tins. New season’s Sultanas, Raisins, Prunes, Dates, etc., etc. Also choice Pine Apple—cubes, sliced, and whole. Best quality and lowest rates for Prompt Cash—at Baxter’s.—Advt.

The Shop that Keeps the Prices Down.— McNeil and Clark, Dee Street. Buyers of all Boys Clothing express their appreciation of our continued low prices, and many are buying in advance against the rise. The slogan is: Buy Now, and at our Sale Prices.—McNeil and Clark.— (advt.)

The little “Red Loop” at the end of a cast or trace is a guarantee of quality. Don’t miss the opportunity of securing a supply at Hyndman’s Fishing Tackle Sale. Sizes lx, 2x, 3x, 4x, and tapered lx to 4x; Fly Casts 1/9 each, 10/- half-dozen. Also medium and heavy traces, 1/6 each. Others at 1/3. Full supply of the deadly i Spoon Baits 1/6 each.— (advk). OVERHEARD AT THE RACES. “Had a rotten shave this morning—touched with sunburn yesterday and forgot to use Q-tol.” All chemists and stores 2/-. (Advt.). A Rousing Sale of Assigned Stocks. We were the lucky purchasers of the Assigned Stocks of the late McMasters of Mataura, for 10/- in the £. To-day and onward, we have piled out on Bargain Tables the whole of this stock at sensational bargain prices. AU Departments are holding exceptional offerings. In our windows we are displaying as usual our beautiful goods. The assigned stocks will be displayed in each section, on special Bargain Tables. We have marked these goods at 10/- in the £ on wholesale prices. We are not quoting prices, as the goods are in limited supply, and cannot be replaced. They include Calicoes, Sheetings, Forfar, Print, Dress Fabrics, Hosiery, Gloves, Laces, Veiling, Embroidery, Wool, Cottons, Showroom Goods, Underwear, Millinery, Children’s Wear, and last but not least, Men’s and Boys’ Wear. Men’s Strong Shirts, 3/6, 5/6. Men’s Strong Trousers, 12/6, 15/6. Canvas Overcoats 20/-. Men’s Ready-to-Wear Suits, 49/6. It will be to your advantage to shop early at—H. and J. Smith, Ltd., Progressive Stores, Tay Street, Invercargill and Main Street, Gore.—(advt.) CONFIDENCE IN KEROL. You can place complete confidence in Kerol, when the use of a disinfectant or antiseptic is required. Kerol is manufactured in England from purest commodities of high antiseptic and germicidal value. It is at least twenty-four times stronger than Carbolic Acid, yet is absolutely non-poisonous and non-irritant.

One small bottle makes thirty' gallons of germ-killing fluid. In bottles, tins, drums and casks. If you have difficulty in obtaining supplies of Kerol order direct from Kerol, Ltd., P.O. Box 1490, Wellington.— (Advt.).

We point with pride to the exceptional values at the “Economic,” Ladies’ Outfitters. Quality and low prices keep them busy.— (Advt.). “Let’s hail sun-kissed Spring.”—Thomas. However, a sunny morning is often followed by a stormy afternoon. Be prepared for the vagaries of Spring weather. Keep Baxter’s Lung Preserver always on hand. — (advt.) “Baxter’s” is a well-tried remedy of Spring chills. Possesses remarkable penetrative properties, which root out colds and coughs in quick time. Also a beneficial tonic. 2s 6d a large bottle at chemists' and stores. — (advt.). THE BUSINESS THAT PROSPERS. Is one wherein everything is conducted with maximum efficiency and minimum expense. Our Furniture Removal Staff is composed of expert packers who work expeditiously saving your time and money. I Try us and see the difference.—THE NEW Zealand express co., ltd.— (advt).

Owing to climatic-conditions th* -evening sports to be held yesterday in Ragby Park under the auspices of the Amateur Athletic Club were postponed. At last night’s meeting of the Town Council Councillor Preddy headed the speaking list with 25 addresses, with Councillors Mackrell and Lennie second with 21. The figures were as follows: -Councillors Glass 13 ; Councillor Macalister 8; Councillor Sheehan 6, CoundUor Meek 4, Councillor Clark 3; Councillor Boyes 1; while Councillor Macdonald “broke hia duck,” speaking once on the tennis debate. An unfortunate accident occurred at the Mataura Paper Mills on Saturday, resulting in injuries to Mr Peter Curtin, says the Mataura Ensign. One of the beaten waa being removed, and Mr Curtin assisted with the work. He stepped on to a beam, which gave way and fell to the next floor, a drop of some 15 feet. Mr Curtin received injuries to his face, and had a couple of riba broken.

A Wellington Press Association message says that the Minister of Education stated yesterday that 599 trained teachers are proceeding from the four training colleges this year to take up positions as assistants, or sole teachers in schools. This is a record. Boards have been instructed to utilise the additional number of teachers to increase the staffs of schools where classes are unduly large. A number of such appointments have already been approved and others are being made. It is quite safe to say, he added, that after the present month when these appointments are completed, there will be no need for any teacher in New Ze»« land, to take charge of as many as eighty children.

The late Lord Northcliffe does not. ream to have been a loser by his speculations in The Tinies newspaper after all (writes the London correspondent of the Melbourne Argus). Up to June, 1922, his investment in The Times was £400,000 worth of ordinary shares out of a total £600.000 of ordixv ary capital, the rest being owned, bw the Walter family. In June, 1922, just before his death, Lord Northcliffe-bought the Walter shares for £200,000, a large sum of money when it is remembered that The Times was losing money heavily at the time. Lord Northcliffe died in August, and a few weeks later his shares were on offer in Fleet Street. There were several big political and financial interests which thought that a deal in Times shares might be profitable, including Mr Asquith’s supporters, and bidding was unexpectedly keen. In the end it is said that Lord Nortbcliffe’s holdings were sold far £1,350,000, a profit of £750,000 upon the deal. The 200,000 shares purchased from the Walter family at 20/- apiece in June actually made 50/each five months later. So Lord Northcliffe’s financial ability was justified in death, as it had been in life.