LATEST TELEGRAMS.

Kumara Times, Issue 2060, 6 April 1883, Page 2

LATEST TELEGRAMS.

[from our own correspondent.] THE TRIAL OF JAMES WYLDE FOR EMBEZZLEMENT. Hokitika, April 6, 2.45 p.m. James Wylde was brought up this morning and charged with having embezzled the sum of £2 10s, being moneys paid as contribution for drains;

also for having embezzled the sum of £l, being a deposit on Brady’s contract for the construction of a drain on the north side of Seddon street, Kumara. The accused pleaded not guilty. The following jury were then empannelled :—Frank Clark (foreman), John Morgin, S. Cassman, Martin Morris, William Bligh, David Kenny, Bernard O’Neill, William Gates, James Cropper, Ross Cunningham, George Burgess, James Hansen. Witnesses O’Hagan and Nicholson gave evidence similar to that tendered in the former case. Spence’s evidence differed from that given in the lower Court, inasmuch as he states that he never asked the accused as to back rates when making the audit, but that his query was in reference to the rates of 1882. Counsel for defence does not at present intend to call evidence. The case for the Crown is, so far, weak. Mr Purkiss will address the jury. Accused seems to bear up wonderfully well under these trying circumstances. Everyone here regrets that such misfortune should have overtaken him. As Capt. Jackson Barry would say—“ Such pluck, energy, and perseverance deserves a better fate.” 4.45 p.m. Wylde’s case is ended. The jury are now considering their verdict.