The Cadman-Rees Libel Case.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 4676, 21 June 1893, Page 3

The Cadman-Rees Libel Case.

[Per Press Association.! NAPIEB, Jtoe 21. This morning the Cadman- Reea libel action was resumed, when William Rose, valuator for Danevirke district, who waa alleged to have been appointed through the influence of Messrs Smith and Cadman, and to have undervalued their Umutuoroa block, gave evidence. He Btated that Mr Smith had recommended him, and he got the appointment, but he never saw Mr Smith while valuing the block, nor did the latter know anything of the valuation until after he had vent his returns in. Mr Kennedy, Inspecting Valuator, had agreed with witness as to his valuations. The evidence given that the Umutuoroa block waa more valuable than the Oringi land was not correct. The latter waa the more valuable. He had not sold any land in the Umutuoroa block to anyone, but had power from Mr Smith to introduce purchasers to him. He did this, and 800 acres were sold at .£5 per acre to various ! people. Mr Smith arranged the price, and not witness. In answer to Mr Reeß, the witness said he did not know Mr Cadman at all, but knew he waa joint owner with Mr Smith. W. C. Smith, member for Waipawa, stated that Messrs Cadman, Irvine and himself originally purchased the Umutuoaroa lease from Mr H. Monteith; and they started cutting timber, erecting over £2000 worth of plant. He subsequently purchased two Natives' shares, when Mr Irvine went out owing to hia bankruptcy, and JBSOO was paid to the Bank for his share. Mr Cadman was appointed Native Minister, and represented that he could not purchase any further shares, as objection might be raised. Witness said that as usual Mr Cadman was over-cautious, but he (witness) said that he would purchase the shares himself if Mr Cadman's interest could lie as security for the money to be raißed. This was agreed to. Mr Cadman had nothing whatever to do with the purchase of shares after he became Native Minister, nor was he ever consulted by witness, although witness had told him how the business was getting on.