AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

Feilding Star, Volume XV, Issue 134, 6 December 1893, Page 2

AUSTRALIAN NEWS.

LOCAL OPTION BILL. COMPENSATION CLAUSE KE. TAINED,

THE MASONIC SCANDAL (PKR PRESS ASSOCIATION!. Melbourne, December 5. It is believed the result of investigation by the Board has been to confirm the allegations regarding the deficiencies in the Benevolent Fund of the Masonic Lodge, but as the officer concerned was not present at the inquiry he may yet be able to satisfactorily account for the shortages, It is expected the Grand Lodfie will meet on the 18th instant to receive the statement of the Grand Master. This Day. The trustees in the estate of the late Judge Kerferd invested a sum of £8,500 in stocks of certain banks which have undergone reconstruction. The estate is liable for £5,000 in calls, and action has been taken to compel the trustees to re pay (he capital and the amount of the calls, it being alleged they had not exercised proper discretion in investing. The Judge held the trustees had acted hon estly, and, therefore, were not liable. Sydney, This Day. . Steam service will shortly be established with Neyv Hebrides. Mr Kidd re-introduced the Local Option Bill. It has been decided, by 47 to 3d, to retain the compensation clause. The Premier U doubtful if he will be able to prorogue before Christmas. He declares the Government have no intention of dropping the Sinking Fund Bill. At a special meeting of the Sydney •Presbytery, it was decided that all ministers should preach to their congregations severally, with a view of securing the return of God-fearing men to Pailiament. The funded stock is still selling well, and over £40,000 worth was sold last month. The bngantino Marshall was severely damaged by fire last night. She had no cargo on board. The origin is unknown. The Mining on Private Property Bill has passed the Legislative Assembly.