VISIT TO THE BISHOP.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume VI, Issue 1808, 29 November 1919, Page 11

VISIT TO THE BISHOP.

HAS DISASTROUS RESULTS. . TALE TOLD TO MAGISTRATE. "I had been to see the Catholic Bishop, and was so excited I threw a fit in Cathedral Square," explained William Howell, an elderly man, who was charged in the Magistrate's Court to-day with drunkenness and committing a breach of a prohibition order. "You see, your Worship," he said, "my friend had died, and I had to arrange for the funeral. I was very 'cut up.' " The accused then proceeded to explain that he had made the visit previously mentioned in arranging for the obsequies of his departed friend. His condition from the effects of the fit had been mistaken by the constable for insobriety. As a matter of fact, he had not had a drink for mouths. However, the evidence of the police was conclusive enough, and the Magistrate (Mr S. E. McCarthy, S.M.) convicted Howell, and imposed a fine of £5 and costs. A warning was given that the next conviction on such a charge would be followed by imprisonment. When this decision was announced, Howell looked hurt. Then, in pleading accents, he said: "I promise, I won't come here again. Will you let me pay' by instalments t"

The Magistrate relented to the ex-tent.-of amending the order so as to allow him to pay the fine by instalments of £1 a month.