The Late “Bill ” Jenkins.

Manawatu Herald, 14 October 1902, Page 3

The Late “Bill ” Jenkins.

Mr William Jenkins, who passed away at Otaki the other days was one of the interesting and historic “ human documents ’’ of the colony says the Fre& Lance. No one ever called him anything but plain “ Bill,” and it was doubtful whether he would have recognised himself if addressed as “Mr William.” Intact, be was ever suspicious of anyone who approached him with “ any of the mister business.” And thereby hangs a tale. “ Bill ”at times collected some out-of-wry curios, and at the time that Lord On slow was Governor of the colony, “ Bill ” had a rare bird which was coveted by not a few collectors. Among those persons who knew a good thing when they saw one was Sir Walter Bnller, and he had seen “ Bill’s ” bird. But, Bill Jenkins was himself an “ old bird,” and a very “ fly ” old bird, and one which got on a high perch when Sir Walter was about.

One day, during his frequent visits to his lakeside property, near Otaki, Sir Walter made a call upon “ Mister Jenkins.” Well,” said the anything-but-sweet William, who was never over-gracious to the Knight of Papaito*ga, “ what do you want ? ” Sir Walter said that Lady Onslow was collecting curios to take Home with her, and that she would no doubt greatly prize that rare bird which Mr Jenkins possessed. 11 Let me give it to Her Ladyship,” suggested Sir Walter. Look here, Buller,” restarted “ Bill,” if Mrs Onslow wants that bird o’mine, she can come and get it—but you don’t take it to her.”

Shortly afterwards, Lady Onslow visited Otaki, and, on the evening of her arrival, a little old man called at her abiding place, and asked if be “could see Mrs Onslow?” It was “Bill," and under his arm he carried the prized bird, which he presented with great delight to Her Ladyship. Speaking of the incident later on, he chuckled as he exclaimed: “ You bet, I put Bullet’s uose out of jiut over that bird!"