POLICE PROTECTION.

West Coast Times, Issue 220, 2 June 1866, Page 2

POLICE PROTECTION.

TO THB EDITOB OF THE WEST COAST TIMEB.

Sir, — I cannot refrain from addressing you on tho constant roproach of our diggings — tho want of protootion. It is supposed that tho inhabitants of this place are secured from tho attaok of any of tho desperate characters that aro to be found on all diggings ; but although wo havo a Wardon, a Sergi ant, and two or

three constables, it appears that thoy will not intorforo iv anything of tho kind.

A ruffian walked into my store this morning, forced himself into my privato room, struok me, destroyod some of my goodfi, and threatened to pull the placo down j and I might have boon killed if tho neighbors had not interforod, as ho possessed himsolf of a knifo from, a neighboring butchor. I wont to tho Camp, saw the Sergoant and a constable ; tho Serpcant turned himsolf in his bod, aud told mo ho could not spare the constable (who I think was engaged paring his nails), but would send ono down on his return from tho Flat. I told him, that vory likely my placo would be pulled down by that time. Ho very unconcernodly turned round, and told mo ho oould not help that. I thou applied to Mr Aylmer, tho Warden, who said he conld uot interfere. It therefore appeared that wo must ' return to tho old stato of things — " Might is right," and overyono must look after themsolves; though what in the name of goodnoss the constables do to pass the time away ovory day pasies my comprehension ; nnd I think the sooner we got rid of them tho bettor, as il appears they aro nob intendod for tho only purpose thoy aro required up here — tho protection of lifo and proporiy. The man who assaulted mo has gone, aud most likely I shall nevor soo lv's face again, so I must pocket tho injury and insults received, and buy a revolver to shoot tho noxt ruffian through tho head. Apologising for trespassing so much on your valuable space I am, &0., Business Liobnbe. Ross, May 22, 1866.