THE WAITOTARA PETITION.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume VII, Issue 1730, 8 December 1887, Page 2

THE WAITOTARA PETITION.

Wanganui, December 7. Tn the Bryco Hutchison oaae this morning evidence for the defence was called as follows : — Walter Syncs proved an interview between the respondent and McLean after ' the declaration of the poll, when the latter obtained a sovereign from respondent. Muldrooh was examined as to an interview with McLean on the subjaot of the sovereign, when the latter told witness that he had borrowed the sovereign from respondent. Muldrooh corroborated the statement of the previous witnesses as to his connection with a buah-falling con* traot, and alleged promise of a section to the man Bright, and lending cow to Mason, whioh was common praotioe after calving. This was also proved by another farmer. A number of other witnesses denied drinking with alleged agents on polling day. Later. Respondent's case In the election petition, Bryce v. Hutchison, was dosed early m the afternoon, and Counsel for the reapondent ta addressing the Court. He has up to the present spoken for over four hours. A number of witnesses were called this mornlDg. Their evidence confirmed the denial as to having been treated on certain ooo^sions by the respondent or his agent. Hugh Muldrook gave evidence as to his connection with the transaction In whioh the man Bright alleged having been promised a section of land, from which it appeared Bright merely stated his desire -to possess the land, but there was no arrangement. Bright was dis-! missed from respondent's employ by the manager for drankenneßa. Maid rook also dettlled the droamstancea m connection with having given oows to Maeon m consideration of hia support to respondent At the election. The manager stated it was his custom to lend oows to neighbors after calving. The manager of another property stated this was a common practice. The Oours resumed at half-past seven. Counsel for the petitioner will address the Court to-night. WANgANui, December 8. The address of counsel lasted till half past e'even last night, when the Court adjou ned till 2 o'clock to-day. Later, Judge Prendergast stated that the Court was unable yet to come to a decision, and adjourned it till tomorrow t eleven*