Local Intelligence.

Lyttelton Times, Volume VI, Issue 404, 17 September 1856, Page 6

Local Intelligence.

Death by^Dkowklxg."—We regret to learn that a fatal accident has occurred within these last few days on the Rangitata. Mr. Fendall, junior, attempting to cross the rivev when in a swollen state,Avasoverturnedi with the horse which he was riding, and drowned without the possibility of being saved. This is the first fatal accident which Aye remember to have happened to a traveller across one of our rivers. We cannot, painful as such an event is, look upon it with any surprise, since travellers are constantly obliged to cross the same river as Avell as others of & similar character. The risk is admitted to be considerable at the best of times, and during floods and freshes is, of course, immensely increased. We think it does not need any outAvard and substantial object to keep ahve in this settlement the memory of the residence of Mr. Godley among us. If such is needed, however, it will soon be supplied. We have been aAvare for some time of a commission given by Mr. Godley to a'gentleman in this •settlement to haA'e. a stone tank erected at the spring upon the bridle-path; and Aye have now the pleasuie of stating that the. work .is begun. It will be in the form of a plain and solid cross, cut out of the Avhite stone of this place, with a Avide tank of the well known red porphyry at the base. It will be placed a little back from the edge of the path, and so as to be conveniently situated for the refreshment of travellers. It is, we believe, peculialy 'the gift of Mie. Godley, in remembrance of former obligations to the spring, and will, accc rlingly, bear her name. The work is being executed by Mr. Chancy, of Lyttelton. The W father.—-During the last seven days a great quantity of rain has fallen ; a fact more worthy of remark iioav than usually, since the season had been previously so fine and well suited to farming operations. We are informed that a considerable loss has now occurred among the young wheat in seA'eral districts around Christchurch. The superabundance of moisture has injured the appearance of the crop in many places, and Aye regret to learn from others the total destruction of considerable portions. If fine dry weather continues after this period, Aye may expect the yield of the remaining portion, Avhere it has not suffered serious injury, to be not less abundant than usual.