NEWS OF THE DAY.

Globe, Volume XXIV, Issue 2590, 26 July 1882, Page 2

NEWS OF THE DAY.

Lyttelton Magistrate's Court.—O. H. Elmes pleaded guilty to embizztiog £2 15* Si, the property of Langdown and Judge, at this Court this morning, and iras sentenced to one month’s imprisonment by Mr J. Ollivlcr, B M.

U.A.O D.—A summoned meeting of the Campbell Lodge is announced for Eriday next at the Terminus Hotel, when business of importance will be brought forward. Sydenham Poultry Show. —The first annual exhibition of the shore will be held in the Sydenham Oddfellows’ Hall on the 9th and 10. h of Augnst. Entries for poultry, pigeons, and canaries will be received np to Monday, 31st inst, Bunaway. —Yesterday afternoon, shortly after three o'clock-, a horse, attached to a hansom on the Market Place cabstand, bolted from the rank along Victoria street, where it came into' collision with a four-wheel cab driven by J. Brooker, the result being that the runaway was oapeised, but beyond breaking the cab window and lamp, no damage resulted.

Small Birds Nuisance.—A meeting of those interested in the destruction of email birds are requested to attend a meeting to bo held at the Fapauui Hotel to-morrow (Thursday) evening, et 7 o’clock.

Mbbxvalb Entertainment. — The usual monthly entertainment in connection with, the above takes place this evening, when, in addition to a choice programme of songs, glees, instrumental music, Ac, there will be presented a comedietta, entitled, “ Baking the Wind,” by a troupe of local amateurs, Christchurch Wesleyan Mutual Improvem ent ASSOCIATION. —At the ordinary meeting held on Monday evening, Mr Arthur Ball read a carefully prepared paper on “ Wind Currents,” ia which the action of the atmosphere was explained, the presence of oolms in certain localities, hot or dry winds in other, upper and under currents, &c. Considerable discussion followed, and while desirous of further information, it was conceded that Mr Bell bad contributed some very valuable items. The Bev. W. Tinsley presided, and the attendance was good, several ladies being apparently deeply interested as listeners. Ear next Monday a lecture on “Entomology” was announced. The Chairman closed the meeting with tha benediction.

The Mistletoe Lodge.—This Ledge held their meeting at the Druids’ Hall, Oxford terrace east, on Thursday evening last • A.D. Bro. Woolfa in the chair. There was a large attendance of members and visitors from Pioneer, Hope of St. Albans, Athelitan, and Dunstan Lodges. It is the intention of several members of the Lodge to take part in the starling of a Druids' band, to take place at the Terminus Hotel on Wednesday next, 26th inst., at 7.30. Harmony was indulged for some time for the purpose of entertaining the visitors, and the Lodge closed at 10 p.m, sharp.

Railway Tabiif —The representatives of the coal and mineral industries of the province have recently held a number of meet* inga at tha c ffi.’O of Mr Neil Black, to consider the present railway tariff, and the result has been tha forwarding of a petition to the Government embodying the views of the petitioners, and requesting the Government to appoint a Commission to meet a committee appointed locally for the purpose of considering the grievances which the petitioners think they labor under. A copy of the petition was cent to all the Canterbury members. Yesterday a reply was received, stating that the petition would receive the consideration of the Government. The Pbiok op Qbaih.—We have received the following communication from Renter’s agent; —ln June last attention was drawn to the fact that the company’s quotations of New Zealand wheat in Sydney were considerably higher than thoie received from private sources. On enquiry I find that the difference arose through an error on the part of the company’s Sydney agent in quoting N.S.YV. instead of N.Z. wheat. As soon as the mistake was discovered steps were taken to correct it and to prevent future repetition. The quotations now being received are strictly correct.

Banqioba and Kaiafoi Besibthatioit Districts. —An impartial alteration haa been made in defining those district* for tha purpose* of registration and vaccination, and Mr A. H. Cunningham is re-appointed registrar of the foraier end Hr S. Johnitea of the latter,

Kaiapoi Ploughing Match. —The reimaining awards made at this match are beet flaring, W. Busby j best finish, li. King J ins and outs, D. Broom.

Inquest at SouthbbibgbAn inquest was held on the body of Samurl luohhiie, aged five and a half yean, at the 8.31. Court, Southbridge, on Monday, before W. D. Lawrence, E«q.. coroner, and a jury of twelve, of whom Mr Howos was chosen foreman. After a post mortem examination, of which Ur. Ctasa gave full particular*, the jury were unanimous in their verdict of 11 Accidental Death."

Farewell Dinner. —Last evening ft fareveil dinner to Messrs A. Fletcher and Wamsley was given by Messrs Oram Bros,, at the Boyal Hotel. An excellent dinner was provided, end about twenty-five invited guests ■at down. The chair was occupied by Mr J. W. Oram, and the vice-ohair by Mr M. H. Oram. After the usual loyal toasts had been disposed of, the chairman proposed the boast of the departing exhibitors, coupling with it the names of Messrs A. Fletcher And Wamsley, who responded in eloquent terms, stating that they should not soon forget the kindness extended to them by the Christchurch citizens. The toast of “ The Medical Profession,” coupled with the name of Dr. Robinson, followed, which wan ably responded to. In response to “ The Turf,” Messrs M. H. Gram and P. Butler responded. The toast of “Tbe Hosts," Messrs Oram Bros., was next given and responded to most heartily, and then “ The Press,” responded to by Messrs Briggs and Hart, followed. The toast of “ The Ladies,” responded to by Messrs Foster and Dilworth, closed the list, and a most enjoyable gathering.

“The Would.”—The company for the production of “ The World ” leave Dunedin by train on Saturday so as to arrive here in tune to open on Monday evening, when the celebrated drama will be produced before a Christchurch public at the Theatre Royal. Mr M. Browne, the agent of Mr Holt, loaves to-day by the Rotomahana for Melbourne, to assume the managership for Messrs Dunning and Co., who are bringing out a company to play at the Opera House, Melbourne.

The Watbb Supply Question. —The poll of the ratepayers on the question of the loan for water supply was opened yesterday morning at nine o'clock, and appeared to excite considerable interest, Mr S. Clarkson was in front of the chamber with a cartoon depicting a female in the clutches of a myrmidon of the law, being escorted with her children to Burnham, owing to the excessive rates augmented by that proposed for the water supply. The result of the poll was as follows:—For the proposal, 900; against the proposal, 1386, the majority against the proposal being 486, The proposal is therefore rejected. Sydenham Baptist Chuboh.—On Monday afternoon the building committee and a few friends met to lay the foundation stone of the new Baptist schoolroom, Bowen and Durham streets. The proceedings commenced at 4.15, when the chairman of the building committee (Mr W. Harrison) gave out the opening hymn and engaged in prayer, after which he urged upon all present the importance in this, as in all other undertakings, of the assurance that God was with them, and if with them they should prosper, Mr F. W. Stapels, the senior elder, then proceeded to lay the stone, beneath which he placed copies of the local papers and the “Baptist,’* and the names of the building committee, after which ho gave a brief history of tho Baptists in Sydenham, expressing bis thankfulness to God for their present position. Mr McTallan gave a short address, speaking of the memorial raised by the children of Israel reminding them of God’s goodness in the past and promise for the future. He trusted the building they were abont to erect would be the birthplace of many souls. The chairman then u ated that this was a schoolroom in which they intended to worship for the time being; they hoped soon to build a new church fronting Durham street. The proceedings closed by singing and prayer.

Pbomissoey Notes,—ln a case heard at Bangioraon Tuesday week, before C, Whitefoord, Esq., 8.M., and adjourned to yesterday, an important point was raised and decided in relation to promissory notes, and which is of importance to persons drawing or receiving the same. Tho value of a note was being sued for when the defendant’s solicitor raised the question and argued that tho words “ months after date ” having been erased, and the words “on demand” having been substituted, and no evidence given of ■nob alteration, the plaintiff could not recover. Various cases were cited, and the Besident Magistrate in giving his decision, ■aid that setting aside the merits of the action, which were strong enough to warrant his giving a judgment for the plaintiff, yet to consider the question of the note, he must hold that this was not a case similar to what was known as Pigotl’s oesc, one wherein n bill bad been altered by the plaintiff after receiving the same from defendant. It was clear that to make the note in court the document it purported to be, the alterations made must necessarily be made, and he should rule the alteration was an immaterial one. In the case of Aldons [v OornweU, L.E. 3, Q B. 575, it was hold an immaterial alteration by a party interested would not void a promissory note, as the alteration only expressed the effect of the note as it originally steed and was therefore immaterial, it did not affect the validity of the instrument. A Membbe Who has a Conscience Mr M. W. Green’s conscience was the topic of on interesting little discussion one evening during the week (says the “New Zealand Times ”), and formed tho sut j jet of what may be regarded as an official explanation by the Hon. the Native Minister. Mr Bryce took occasion to explain that: neither he nor any member on his side of the House, so far as he was aware, had the slightest objection to Mr Green having a conscience ; all they objected to was his talking about it so frequently. Mr Green very properly retorted that ho always intended to be gnided by his conscience, and that ha would never consent to put it in his pocket—a sentiment with which no one present had the hardihood to quarrel. Let us hope that we have heard the last of this matter, and that the hon. member for Dunedin East will learn to discuss the affairs of the country without that assumption of ■elf righteousness whioh has bocomo positively offensive. Perhaps iu a few sessions the spotless Mathew may become “indifferent honest ’’and less objectionable to hisi fellow members. The “Hawke's Bsy Herald,” referring to this phenomenal conscience, gays that Mr Green was carried into the Opposition ranks by it, and adds:—“There has been a struggle going on for some time rs to which side Mr Green’s conscience would let him go, and the result is that the Opposition attraction has proved the most potent. It is of coarse possible that such a strong oon■oienoo may carry Mr Green back again.”

Mining Notbs from Ebkfton.—On Monday the correspondent of the “Daily Times ” telegraphed ns follows : —“ The week opened this morning with a considerable inquiry for ■various lines in the stock market, but purchasers seemed to confine themselves mostly to Bainy Creeks, which have commanded a big share of attention. The Murray Creek, •with Fleeces, Darks, Wealths, and Nils, come next in order. Tho Boatman’s stock is quieter at present, but is, nevertheless, firmly held at prices ruling last week. The regular business in leading lines has for the last week or two been somewhat interrupted by the excitement which has prevailed lately in taking up new ground all over the field, but principally in Murray, Bainoy, and Devil’s Creeks, A number of gsntlemon interested in mining went out this morning to tho latter district for the purpose of inspecting the stone lately discovered in the Globe ground, They are only just returned, and seem highly pleased with the prospects they have Been, Some stone was broken out from a large reef on the surface and brought to town. The atone appears similar to the Oriental surfaos Stone, and carries gold, to all appearances payable. The run of stone has been pricked lor a considerable distance along the surface, and appears of vast dimensions. On being compassed, it was found to ran in a direction likely to lead it past the stone formerly discovered in the Union claim, and appears thus to be a distinct lode from any yet discovered. Shoo'd it live down on further trial the discovery will prove a very impoitant one. It will be the meats of opening out comparatively new country. The application for fresh leases still continues in all directions, and should a tenth part of them prove the existence of a payable reef within their limits, the field will assume a magnitude and prosperity never dreamed by tho early pioneers. A telegram from Lyell states that the crushing at the United Alpine was interrupted, owing to breakage of the incline. There are no returns.

Thb Russian Empkeob —The melancholy ■ incidents connected with the voluntary incaroeration of the Bunion Emperor have at last been relieved by a touch of humor. Shut in by no lese than three walla in his palace-prison at Gatsohina, and surrounded by careful guards, who have orders to search every visitor, his Majesty, it seems, is atill uneasy as to the safety of his sacred person. He accordingly resolved to test the efficacy of hia own precautions, and to his horror has succeeded in eluding the vigilance of his guards and penetrating into his own privacy. One could hardly imagine a more comical situation than this ahould-have-been Nihilist engaged on that too suooessf nl enterprise. What a chance it would have been for a Bussian sentinel, with a sense of fun (supposing the existent of such an anomaly), to have recognised his master without revealing it, and put him to every inconvenience which suspicion could suggest. If one could bring oneself to write of a person of such exalted rank in a bantering strain, a very excellent farce might surely be produced upon this subject. Entertainment at Sydenham, —Mr H. Z, TayJour’s gift exhibition at the Oddfellows’ Hall, Sydenham, was not so well patronised as on the preceding evening. A change of programme was submitted, embracing views of Alexandria, the Great Pyramid and the Sphynx, Cleopatra’s Needle and dismantled forts, the Pyramid of _Qeza, and the statues of Memmon, Constantinople with the mosques of St. Sophia ansi Solyman, and also a series of views illustrating Campbell’s poem, “ The Soldier’s Dream,” each changing scene being illustrated by the lecturer reciting the poem. The audience were then taken via the Pacific railway across the American Continent, views being shown of the big Wellingtonea gigantea, Utah or Salt Lake City, the Hudson Biver, Washington with the oapitol, Niagara from three points of view, and Luna Island. The younger portion of the audience were then treated to the ludicrous episode in the story of Diogenes and the Two Naughty Boys," after which some very realistic illustrations of classical statuary wore submitted, the whole concluding with three illustrations of Christchurch and Lyttelton. The various scenes depicted were graphically described by the lecturer, who was frequently applauded. At the conclusion a lavish distribution of gifts was made, the recipient of the Standard treadle sewing machine being Mrs Charles Hulston, of Colombo street South. The lecturer thanked the audience for their patronage, expressing bis intention of appearing in Sydenham on a future occasion.

A Ghost Looked Up. At intervals during some months past (says the “ Timaru Herald ”), there has been seen, now in one part of the town or suburbs, now in another, an object whose appearance and conduct left little or no room for doubt in the mind of those who saw it, that it was a ghost, spectre, or hobgoblin of some kind, and “ the ghost ” was quite a common topic of conversation in some circles for a few day s|after each apparition. On Monday evening two young girls were walking up North street, past the school grounds, when they observed among the trees which surround the playground a strange but human-like object in white garments, which gleamed weirdly among the foliage. The “ thing” moaned hideously and made uncouth motions, and the evidence of two senses conspired to prove that the girls’ fears were well founded, thot they wore in the presence of the dreaded ghost. They screamed aloud, and one of them fainted. Fortunately their cries were beard, and a small number of people soon arrived at the spot. The first to come up were a couple of lads, who with commendable pluck "went for” the ghost at once. They tackled the monster and managed to detain it until help arrived. A cart was got, the ghost, kicking and struggling, was put into it, taken to the police station, and actually “ run in.” It is almost worth while to have been troubled with a ghost to have the honor—surely for the first time in history —of placing him under legal arrest I A calm examination of the captive, however, proved it to be a most pitiful and ill-conditioned spectre—a very pariah of a ghost. It was very scantily dressed, almost naked in fact; it was moreover extremely drank, and appeared further to be suffering from delirium tremens. Ghosts of this calibre may cause a great deal of annoyance, as was proved last night, but it will probably tend to allay the fears of the timid residents in the outskirts to know for certain what sort of stuff Timaiu ghosts are made of.