ANDERSON v. KIRKBRIDE.

Wanganui Herald, Volume XII, Issue 3617, 21 January 1880, Page 2

ANDERSON v. KIRKBRIDE.

[by telegbaph.] (fjiom otjb. own correspondent.) Wellington, Jan 20. The libel action, Anderson v. Kirk- ! bride, commenced this morning. Reea made a splendid opening speech for the plaintiff, pointing out that Anderson sued for damages on account of accusations against his private character, putting on one side all charges against him as a journalist. Plaintiff then endeavoured to prove the identity of defendant with John Law Kirkbride, who was the registered printer and publisher of the Rangitikei Advocate. Kirkbride was put in the box, but declined to answer any questions. His identity was endeavored to be proved by the evidence of Notman and Cross. The point was argued at great length, finally the Chief Justice ruled in plaintiff's favor. Anderson stepped into. the box just as the Court rose. Defendant's counsel say that they will endeavour to obtain a nonsuit on the question of identity of defendant witn registered owner. | , Later. ■ The plaintiff's case is concluded. Defendant commenced justification of the libel, after which plaintiff will bring rebutting evidence. Anderson's cross? examination was/very amusing. He was questioned as to the various assaults he had committed, and he insisted upon relating the whole ' circumstances connected with each conviction, Connollyasked him about his fighting propensities, and led to question — " Do you not always strike the first blow V Anderson replied with a deliberate drawl — "You see; when a man puts up his hands to fight me, I always consider it good policy to get in the first blow ! " A great deal has been made of the insufficient proof as to the identity of defendant with the printer and publisher of the Advocate. On this technical point Connolly moved for a non-suit, and it was reserved. Great interest is taken in the case.