PROVINCIAL NEWS.

Kumara Times, Issue 2560, 5 September 1884, Page 2

PROVINCIAL NEWS.

[united press association.]

Christchurch, September 4. Shortly after three o’clock this morning, Festers’ Hotel, Lincoln road, occupied by J. Haissman, was destroyed by fire. The origin is unknown. Haiss. man was away in Timaru. Mrs Haissman retired at midnight, when all appeared safe. She left a small fire in the dining-room grate, and the fire seemed to have commenced in that part of the building. After the fire a Jew hawker lodging at the hotel, named Walter Leditt, was missed, and his charred remains were subsequently discovered.

Nelson, September 4. An explosion occurred at the Haven Road State School last evening. Mr Debur, was about to exhibit dissolving views by means of the oxyhydrogen light, the room being full of children, when the gas bags burst with a loud report. Fourteen windows were broken, and also two lights. The children rushed out, but in an orderly manner, and so far as can be learnt no one was hurt.

Wellington, September 3. An extraordinary Gazette issued this evening announces the resignation of the Atkinson Ministry and the appointment of the Stout Ministry. Dunedin, September 2. Edward Power, a well known miner, was drowned in the Arrow River, Lake County, yesterday. He fell off a footbridge, and though a moderate swimmer, the current was too strong, the river being swollen from recent rains.

September 3. Bowan, member for Hokonui, was burned in effigy at Gore last night. The proceedings were exceedingly lively, and justice had to interfere to prevent a cremation taking place in the public streets.

o amaru, September 2. A man named Johnson, who was arrested in Christchurch, was committed for trial to-day for forging and littering cheques for £l2, £lO, and £ls.

A hairdresser named Robert Gower attempted to poison himself with oxalie acid. The doctors were quickly called, and with the aid of a stomach pump he was soon out of danger. Auckland, September 3. Hans Christopher, who arrived in the colony 41 years ago, and was present at the burning of Kororareka, died yesternight. Lady Whitaker, wife of Sir F. Whitaker, died last night.

September 4. Hakuene, M.H.R., writes to his friends at Russell that he is very much disgusted at the way members are wasting time at Wellington, and unless they go to work now he will return home.