SUPREME COURT, HOKITIKA.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 8 March 1901, Page 2

SUPREME COURT, HOKITIKA.

Thursday, March 7 th - . (Before His Honor Judge Deunistou.) MANSLAUGHTER. James Louden was charged with that lie did on the 27th December cause the death of one, James Stephens, by striking him at Dillmanstown in or near the Junction Hotel, thereby causing his death. Mr Park represented the Crown and Mr Murdoch appeared for the accused. The accused pleaded “ not guilty.” The evidence in this case was similar to that previously reported. His Honour in summing up referred to the evidence of the witnesses Williams and Brown. One said that accused took off his coat and the other said that he did not. He was not going to remark that Brown gave his evidence to screen the accused and looking at the matter from a point of law, it was technically manslaughter. It was an unfortunate case. The jury would have to take the whole circumstance into consideration and bring in their verdict. The jury then returned and after an absence of about ten minutes brought in a verdict of “not guilty” and the accused was discharged, civil. In the case of Ramsey a t . Forsyth, Mr Park for plaintiff and Mr Guinness for defendant, Mr Park asked for an ad. journment to the next sittings of the court. After arguments on both sides had been heard His Honour granted the adjournment. Mr Guinness asked for costs. The Judge said ho would decide that matter when the case was heard. An order was made granting a summons to be issued for the discovery of certain documents required when the above case is being heard. IN CHAMBERS. At the afternoon sitting a petition was presented re the construction of the will of one, Brimble, deceased, of Greymouth, requesting alteration of same- Mr Guinness appeared for the executors and Mr Beare for the family of deceased. After arguments had been advanced His Honor reserved his decision. DIVORCE. M. J. Harrison, petitioner v. John Harrison respondent.—This was petition on the ground of desertion.—Mr Bcaro for petitioner. —Decree nisi granted with costs on lowest scale.

Mary Blanchard petitioner v. Earnest Blanchard respondent.—Petition for divorce on ground of desertion. —Mr Guinness for petitioner.—Decree nisi was granted with costs on lowest scale.