THE BLENHEIM SCANDAL [NELSON EXAMINER.]

Grey River Argus, Volume XII, Issue 1373, 23 December 1872, Page 2

TH E BLENHEIM SCANDAL [NELSON EXAMINER.]

We have before alluded to a very gross scandal, affecting the character of a high public functionary in Marlborough— a servant of the Colonial Government, and a magistrate. No inconsiderable hubbub was raised about Mr Eyes' private life a year ago, when he was about to be appointed to the Resident Magistracy of Marlborough, but as the subject of the 1 scandal was sent away, the excitement subsided. A few weeks ago, the return of the lady, who is a half-caste, and taking up her abode. in Blenheim, with other transactions in Mr Eyes' domestic affairs, re-kindled public hostility against him, and an address to the Governor was got up and signed by about 500 persons, praying that inquiry might- be made into the storie3 which were in circulation affecting his conduct. No steps having been taken by Government in the matter, public feeling was greatly excited at seeing the female in question brought to the bazaar, held at Blenheim on tha 4th instant for a charitable object, by a man named Lawrence, in whose house she lodges. With one voice aliened "turn them out," and the party were hustled out accordingly. Mr Lawrence thereupon summoned tftreq 1 of the; gentlemen who Were most active in expelling him. from

the room, but the first case tried— that of Mr G. Fell— was -dismissedi leaving Mr Lawrence^ or his- employer, to pay about Ll4 costs. On the evening of the lltli instant, a public meeting was held, which was numerously attended, when a deputation of twenty-four residents were appointed to proceed to Wellington by the next steamer, to. again urge the Government to take proceedings in the matter. Meantime Mr Eyes is threatening to bring actions against several persons who have taken part in the measures against him.