AUCKLAND SPECIAL.

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 67, 22 March 1901, Page 2

AUCKLAND SPECIAL.

MR SIIAND. (Special to Times.) Auckland, last night. Mr J. A. Sliand, the war-correspondent, who was temporarily employed on the staff of tho Gisborne Times, and is now a journalist on the staff of tho Thames Advertiser and Star, in recognition of his services to the Now Zealand nurses at tho front, has received from them a gun-metal match-box, inlaid with gold. The Gordon Highlanders also show their appreciation of the kindness of Mr Shand by “ sending to a New Zealand friend found on the veldt ” a sovereign-purse. First Contingenters will remember Mr J. A. Shand by his ardent desire to be in the firingline, his taking way with all ranks, and his popularity with his brother journalists. PLAIN TALK. I sent a brief wire to the Times tho other evening in reference to Mr Seddon’s plain talk to the citizens of Wellington. Word from Wellington to-day states that Mr Seddon is not likely soon to hear the last of the protests against his speech upon the city and citizens of Wellington. The Ratepayers’ Association brought it up at their meeting last night. Mr Hurrell, the chairman, expressed the opinion “ that the language used by Mr Seddon to tho deputations which waited on him recently was of the most insulting character and an utter disgrace, the more so that there was no foundation for his remarks.” TOBACCO GROWING.

Mr Sutherland, tobacco export, reports favorably on land of certain classes for tho growth of plug tobacco, but states that the crop is a troublesome one, and settlers could not be expected to give up an industry like dairying in its favor. The district north of Auckland is well suited to growing cigar leaf and tobacco for curing, but the people knew nothing whatever of cur’ng. He purposes issuing a pamphlet dealing with the growth and curing at an parly date. PARLIAMENTARY SESSION. I have good authority for contradicting a statement that in consequence of the visit of the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall it will bo necessary to hold two separate sessions of Parliament this year. I am informed that Parliament will meet in the usual form, and adjourn over the period of the reception to the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall, the session being resumed in the ordinary course, when the functions are complete.