MATAKITAKI NOTES.

Lyell Times and Central Buller Gazette, Volume VI, Issue 281, 10 July 1886, Page 2

MATAKITAKI NOTES.

(from our own correspondent.) Murchison, 6th July, 1886.

So much of importance has been happening in the world at large that the chronicles of small beer from this region were not of sufficient moment to warrant writing about before. The snow of course fell here as elsewhere, and the oldest inhabitant states that he never saw it so heavy before, there being nine inches of it round about Hampden. Ido not know whether any one else has marked the coincidence but for some years I have noticed that extraordinary seasons in the Old Country are as a rule followed by their counterpart here at the antipodes. At last, I am happy to state, the widening of the road to the Six Mile bids fair to become an accomplished fact, the plans and specifications being on view at the Commercial Hotel, aud tenders are to close on Thursday, 22nd instant. Speaking of roads I must apologise for an unintentional error that I made with reference to the Owen road. I stated that it had started, well so I was informed from the Owen itself on the very best authority, but, " All men are liars," differing only in the extent of their powers after all. I was not very far out as the overseer was then starting from Nelson, and it is now under progress. There is a petition now lying for signature praying for a bridge connecting Hampden with the main road, and it is one of the most necessary works in the district, but I think while we are at it we should agitate for a cart bridge at once and get through connection with the outer world. The court that was to be held this day is now postponed till the 3rd of August: thereby causing great inconvenience to many, the notice ouly having been received on Saturday by telegram. It seems a great pty that a longer notice of any alteration of dates cannot be given, and not bring men 20 mileo on a fools' errand. To make bricks without straw is a venerable saying but on reperusing this I find it all straw and no building material, consequently if any one takes the trouble to cut me up, chaff will be the result. Quid Nunc.