CARTLOADS OF CATS.

Taranaki Herald, Volume LIV, Issue 13367, 8 January 1907, Page 8

CARTLOADS OF CATS.

EXTRAORDINARY HOAX AT AN IRISH F\TR. An extraordinary hoax has just been perpetrated at Ballymena, County Antrim. Some time ago placards were posted throughout the neighbourhood declaring that the War Office authorities were purchasers of cats in unlimited numbers. • The announcement set forth that barracks at home and abroad were overrun with rats, which not only destroyed the soldiers' rations and clothing, but even attacked their boots. Half-a-crown a head was offered for every suitable cat, and it was announced that a War Office official would attend at the next Ballymena fair to purchase the animals. Thereupon commenced a wonderful hunt throughout the district. The cats had a lively time, and so had the small boys. When the eventful day came cats took the prominent position usually occupied by pigs. Cartloads of them were driven- into the town, and a sharp look-out was kept for the War Office official. There were all sorts and conditions of cats, all ages and many breeds, but the purchaser failed to put in an appearance. The people are new looking for the perpetratoi of the hoax. RHEUMATISM. The quick relief from pain afforded hy applying Chamberlain's Balm 3s worth many times the cost. It makes rest and sleop possible. For sale by All Stores.* RUSSELL & SON. Sculptors, Monumental Masons, St. Aubyn-st,, New Plymouth and at High-st., Hawera.— We beg to state that we have .dispensed with the services of our travelling agent, as we find the general public have the idea they have to pay for his travelling the district, which is quite correct. Our customers in future will save from 10 to 15 jer cent, by dealing with us, for we mean to do our own canvassing, and we find that the peo : pie would prefer to deal with the Head of firm, and thereby save a traveller's commission. Trusting that before you place your order you will wait to sea our designs and prices, which latter we know are the most reasonable in the district. Trusting •to be favoured with your esteemed order, — We remain, yours faithfully, J. Russell & Son, New Plymouth and Hawera. f562'