N.S.W. LAND SCANDAL.

Wanganui Herald, Volume XXXIX, Issue 11647, 26 August 1905, Page 5

N.S.W. LAND SCANDAL.

Opening of Mrs Willis' Box.

Press Association.— Telegraph.— Copyright.

Received August 25, 11.22 p.m. SYDNEY, August 25. Mrs Willis's box, in charge of two detectives, was produced before the Lands Commission, after strong protests by Mrs Willis and her solicitor against her private papers being overhauled. When opened before the Commission the box was found to contain a quantity of jewellery, plate, and a number of documents. The box, with the jewellery and plate, was handed back to Mrs Willis. The Commissioner impounded the documents, and will privately peruse them. The much-expected books relating to Mrs Willis's business were not found. Messrs McNair and Hoskin, who were examined, stated that they were unable to throw any light upon the disappearance of the books, though the accountant of the safe deposit deposed that the box was much lighter after they and Mrs Willis had it open just before Willis left Sydney. Mrs Willis* box was subsequently brought from the safe deposit, and contained onlyheirlooms in the shape of a sovereign and brooch.

There was considerable excitement in the Court while the opening of the box was proceejfipg.