MONEY FOR A WEDDING.

Waikato Times, Volume 99, Issue 16634, 27 October 1925, Page 4

MONEY FOR A WEDDING.

MOARI DEBTOR'S AFFAIRS.

AN UNTIMELY MARRIAGE,

Farming is apparently not a very; profitable occupation to a half-caste. Maori of Otorohanga, who appeared at the Magistrate's Court, Hamilton, to-day to show reason why at judgment order for approximately £iOO. should not be made against him. Debtor stated in evidence that he was. running 70 cows on a 400 acre farm at Otorohanga, but only about 46 cows, were in. milk. His milk cheques averaged about £2O a month, out of which, he had to pay £l6 wages. In cross-examination by Mr F» Swarbrick, however, it was elucidated that the judgment debtor, his wife, and. children owned a fair portion of native land, most of which was lying idle.

A little later it was made to appear that defendant had re-married aboufc six months ago. Mr Swarbrick expressed surprise that he should go to; the expense of a wedding when ha had a judgment summons against him.

His Worship*. Perhaps he was mari ried according to the Maori custom. Mr Swarbrick: Where did you get married?

Defendant: In the Post Offloe. Wei just went in, went out, and went home. (Laughter.) Throughout the cross-examination, defendant contended that he oould not pay immediately, but promised to liquidate his liabilities as soon as thd financial outlook brightened. The Magistrate told him that unless he paid, some time his creditors would force him into bankruptcy. Defendant: I don't want to go bankrupt. I've never done it in my life. (Laughter.) The case was adjourned until th#. first Court day in the new year.