Sydney Tragedy.

Hokitika Guardian, 18 July 1921, Page 1

Sydney Tragedy.

DEATH OF MBS LIPPE. AUSTRALIAN AND N.Z. CAIILE ASSOCIATION SYDNEY, July 17. The inquest on Mistress Lipp whose mangled body was recently found at the foot of the south head gap. disclosed some remarkable features. The evidence showed that deceased was a Victorian Society woman separated from her husband who was described ns New Zealand guide living in the Dominion. She left a will deeding her property, valued at £IO.OOO to a young man named Alister Smith, with whom she was associated in the musical world, and who sometimes stayed at her house.

The evidence of a lndv companion of Mrs Lippe alleged the two women were kept in a state of terror by the man. Smith’s allegations that Roman Catholics and Sinn Foinors were after them, and had a machine gun and other arms hidden about the house preparatory to attacking it on a given date. Prior to this date" Smith had induced the woman to flee to Sydney. Mrs Tiipp Jo ft a letter for Smith stating that she had decided to end it nil and adding that “happiness would come to her on the other side.” where she would wait for him. Smith in evidence denied the allegations about terrorising t-lv women. Tic said that he tried to reason with Mr= T inpe in regard to lwr ideas about the Pomnn Catholics and Sinn Foinors. hut he bad found that she would noT lisle-' po be took- tho lino of Ions) resistance and a "rood with her. TTo denied plnv;„g on her feelings, or suggesting that she should commit suicide. Smith admitted, however, his receiving considerable sums of money from her.

The coroner in turning a verdict of suicide added that Smith’s association with Mrs Lippe had undoubtedly acted asj an unwholesome influence on her mind.