PROVINCIAL NEWS.

Kumara Times, Issue 2359, 20 March 1884, Page 2

PROVINCIAL NEWS.

*■ [united press association.] Ross, March 19. A fire occurred at ten last night which reduced to ashes the steam sawmills of Mr Grimmond. The premises were insured in the Equitable Insurance Company for £SOO, but this sum will not cover the loss. The origin of the fire is as yet a mystery. Christchurch, March 19. Last evening the body of a man named Edward Davis was found in the Heathcote, four miles from Christchurch. He had been living with his son, and was somewhat addicted to drink, and had been in low spirits lately. A bricklayer named Arthur Henry Brightmore, residing at Sydenham, attempted to commit suicide by hanging himself. The rope, however, broke, thereby his life was saved. He has been pronounced insane by one medical man. Dunedin, March 19. Fisher, storekeeper, at the Upper Shotover, has committed suicide by discharging the contents of a gun into his head, pulling the trigger with his toe. Wellington, March 19. The natives who assembled at Parihaka for the monthly meeting on Monday last, are making arrangements for dispersing again. Charles , Stewart, aged 12, son of Stewart, timber merchant, was thrown from his horse on Monday. He never regained consciousness and died this morning. Several gentlemen who are desirous of witnessing Hanlan give an exhibition as oarsman, have decided to write to Sydney and ask upon what terms he will come to Wellington and row against Hearn, the New Zealand champion. Should the celebrated sculler conseut to compete against a local man for a reasonable sum, no time will be lost in arranging for a match. + . ST. PATRICK'S COLLEGE. Wellington, March 17. The offertory at the laying of the foundation stone of St. Patrick's College yesterday slightly exceeded £I2OO. Bishop Redwood gave £l5O, and it is understood each of the other Bishops gave an equal amount. The Pontifical vespers and the benediction of the Holy Sacrament were celebrated in the Cathedral before an immensß congregation. The procession had to be abandoned, as the church was so crowded. At High Mass in the morning there was also a very large congregation, and Bishop Moran preached at both services. There was magnificent music, the choir being greatly strengthened and full band added to the organ. At the laying of the foundation stone, Bishop Redwood read a letter from the Roman Catholic prelates of Australia, regretting their inability to attend, and expressing their best wishes for the institution.