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Dunstan Times, Issue 995, 13 May 1881, Page 2

MR PYKE AT St. BATHANS,

A large number of persons attended ot the National Schoolhouse, St. Bathans, on Monday last, to hear Mr Pykc’s address on the question of cutting up the runs in Central Otago. The County Chairman presided. Mr Pyke spoke at some length on the subject, wai listened to with great attention, and was frequently applauded during his speech. Moved by Mr Purton, seconded by Mr Pyle, and carried unanimously :—That a branch of the Land League be formed at St. Bathans, to co-operate with ether branches in memorialising the Government as to the necessity for sub-dividing those pastoral runs in Central Otago, the leases of which will shortly expire, in such a manner as to best promote settlement, and secure the largest possible revenue, care being taken to prevent the alienation of auriferous country, while affording facilities for the occupation of such land until required tor mining. Also to press upon the attention ot the Government the necessity for such alterations being made in the Land Act as are required to suit the circumstances of the people ot Central Otago. That the Branch Committee consist of Messrs Pyle, Purton, Jones, Ewing, Keenan, Hughes, Mee, Aitkenhead, and Jenkins, with power to add to their number.

Votes of thanks to Mr Pyke and the Chairman concluded the proceedings.