Inquest.

New Zealand Police Gazette, Volume XIX, Issue 11, 29 May 1895, Page 87

Inquest.

Patea.— On the 13th ultimo the body of a man, name unknown, was found in the Patea River, a large piece of papa rock being securely tied round the waist, and at an inquest held on the same date, before Robert J. Adams, Esq., J.P., a verdict of “ Found drowned ” was returned. Deceased had been staying at the Masonic Hotel from the 27th March to the 3rd April, when he left very early in the morning. Description: A native of Devonshire, England, about fifty-eight years of age, partly bald, full grey beard whiskers and moustache, sfc. 9in. or lOin. high, had on a pair of light-tweed trousers and waistcoat, and dark-tweed

coat. His effects consisted of a patched leather haversack, pair of spectacles in a wooden case, a metal corkscrew, and an old ’bus-ticket, on which the words “ Gibson, proprietor,” and “ Waikato ” are barely discernible. He spoke of having, during January and February last, camped near some hotsprings for the benefit of his health—supposed at Taupo, but may be Te Aroha or Rotorua. He appears to have been without means, and owed for a week’s board when leaving the hotel.