NEWS IN BRIEF.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLI, Issue 2054, 13 November 1919, Page 4

NEWS IN BRIEF.

One of the most curious drugs that is taken by a whole nation is made from a poisonous toadstool found in Karatscliatka, where it grows in great quantities. Everyone there takes the drug, from the time they are children, and often drug parties are held lasting a week without cessation.

The great “Cullman” diamond was once taken from a bank vault, in which it was being safeguarded, and shown to the King of Spain. For that special “show” it was insured for £500,000. The rate was only sixpence per cent, yet the underwriters shared £250 among them on the transaction. Weird and wonderful are some of the remedies devised in. different parts of the world for diseases which afflict suffering humanity. One of the oldest of these is the belief prevalent in many countries of Europe that the passing under the belly of an ass of a child' suffering from whooping-cough will bring instant relief.

Inhabitants have to punt oi I ..scull to church at Holme, near Peterborough, England. Here is found one of the most interesting floating churches, perhaps, in the world. The interior of this, .church-bout is 30ft. long by Oft. wide, and 7f(. in height It is fitted in miniature exactly like an’: other church, with a font, pews, prayer-desk, and the smallest of American organs. - Cargoes sunk for many years can be raised in good condition, for the water usually acts as a preservative of raw. materials. Wooden ships, after being sunk, are rapidly cover-