HIGHWAY ROBBERY.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXIV, Issue 1961, 21 December 1906, Page 3

HIGHWAY ROBBERY.

Mr L, 0. Hooker, who is iu charge of the Taranaki oouci ut the Exnibniou, was made a victim of a dastardly attack by sandouggers on Fridey nignt, Mr Hooker was hurrying home to his lodgings in tho city about naii-pust nine, and proceeded along the Avenue towards the hospital bridge. When about 80 yards past the museum no was accosted by a tniok-ssi man who approaonad from the rear and inquire! the time. Mr Hooker unbuttoned his overcoat to reaoh nia watch, und as he leaned down to ascertain She desired information toe man made a snaioh at the chain, which ho broke away from the watch. At this moment another man stepped up aud dealt Mr Hooker a heavy blow with a eaodbug; this swung round his neck and struck him on the temple, twisting him ell his legs, aud causing him to fall B.uuued to Shu ground. When he regained consciousness Mr Hooker found that he his wasoh still grippal tightly in his hand, but tne silver onain upon which was a muoh-prizjd medal, was missing. The thieves had turned out all his pocaots except tuose iu his vest (one of which contained a sum of silver), and had abstracted a J6l note and a small amount oi sliver from his hip pocket.