NELSON.

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 4, Issue 195, 14 June 1860, Page 3

NELSON.

An analysis has been -made of the coal brought from the rivei* Grey on the west coast, the result of which > is highly satisfactory, proving as it does that this coal is superior to any hitherto found in New Zealand* while, according to the accounts we have received, the seam is of great width, and well situated for working. A report upou this coal bed from Mr. Burnett, a practical coal viewer, who accompanied Mr. Haast on his scientific exploration to the west coast, is anxiously looked for, and the Council has voted .£3OO to enable the Government to open the seam and procure a cargo of the coal so soon as Mr. Burnett’s report is received, or the government thinks it advisable* to charter a vessel for the purpose.— Examiner, sth May.

The Militia.— There is an intention, we

understand, to immediately call out for drill the whole body of militia in this province ; but in order to render the service as little irksome as possible, it is, we believe, proposed to ballot for one-fourth of the names on the Militia list at a time, so that at the expiration of these four periods of drill, nearly the whole male adult population of the province will, in some measure, be organized for military service. The volunteer rifles will be exempt from militia drill. The militia will be armed with muskets, while the volunteers will be furnished with rifles.— lbid, 16th May.