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Manawatu Herald, 31 January 1879, Page 2

- Some time ago wo referred to the need of a Clerk of the Court at either l'ulmciston or Feilding. The difficulty in tho way of the need being supplied in, that it would necessitate a second set of books in tho one Magisterial district. 'lhe Government have endeavored to supply the want as far as possible under the circumstances, by appointing an assistant-clerk, and the chief clerk is thus enabled to travel about the district, spending one day each week at Palmerston ; the headquarters remaining at IToxton. Regarding Mr Baker's removal to Falmerston, which has been proposed, we do not think such a course is likely to be adopted, and for this reason. He is not only Clerk to the Court, but Native Officer besides. His salary for the former office is only £125, the remainder coming from the Native Department. The bulk of the natives live at this end of the district, and matters are constantly arising which noed Mt Baker's personal attention ; he having gained their full confidence. lit fact, were he removed, it would be necessary at once to appoint some one in his place who knew the Jlaori language. Upaountry settlers will therefore see how matters stand. The best remedy wouMbe to divilo tho district, Palmersfon and tho whole upper district beini? made one circuit, and Saudon, Carnarvon, Foxton, and Otaki another. There would be quite enough work for two Magistrates if more frequent sittings were held, tt o commend tho idea to the uppsr district settlers.