THE FIJIAN MURDERER.

Globe, Volume XXII, Issue 2104, 20 November 1880, Page 3

THE FIJIAN MURDERER.

The ‘ N.Z. Herald ’ says that when the interpreter informed Joe, the Fijian murderer, of hia reprieve, he simply nodded hia head, and manifested no signs to indicate that the intelligence was welcome to him or otherwise. The question was put to him several times whether ho understood the purport of the communication. Joe each time nodded his head, but made no manifestation. Ho was told that the sentence was commuted ; that although he was not to be hanged, he would be kept in prison for the term of bis natural life. Another nod without accompanying word was all the indication that could be obtained as to the effect of intelligence which would make most other men in such a situation give some visible signs of satisfaction or gratitude. Joe, after the announcement was made to him, was conducted to the gaol yard, where the heavy irons were struck off his legs. Ho showed himself well enough pleased with his release from these incumbrances. All through the man seemed to maintain his passive demeanor. We have heard that Joe has shown disappointment in one particular. Whether or not he be greatly pleased at escaping the gallows, his sorrow was palpable enough when told that one of the creature comforts allowed to condemned criminals would bo taken from him. He had a small allowance of tobacco, which will henceforth be denied him. He showed more concern at losing his tobacco than joy at Lis reprieve from death.