Carnarvon-Sandon Tramway.

Manawatu Standard, Volume IV, Issue 225, 20 August 1884, Page 2

Carnarvon-Sandon Tramway.

[Foxton Paper.] As we briefly indicated m our last issue, the result of Mr Rotheram's inspection of the line on Friday last was that he reported favourably on the use of Government stock being allowed. Accordingly, he intimated to the County Chairman that a second-class carriage, and two wag« gons would be left at Carnarvon Station that night, for use on the tramway. This was done, and on Saturday morning, the Chairman and several townspeople paid a visit along the line, to see how matters would shape. On arrival at. Carnarvon, the tramway engineer had steam up, and shortly /-after the County engine walked Sway with the train. On arrival at Oroua Downs, a short stay was made, when Mr and Mrs M'Leninan and- the Misses M'Lennan (2) j oined the passengers. , The train was then ran to the end of the line at Hickford'fc corner— everything ; run* nirig smoothly, and the engine taking the load without the least trouble. After a stay of half-an-hour at the present terminus, the engine, was headedfor home. Extra , speed was put on, and the run to Oroua Downs was made at tho rate of about 20 miles an hour. It is not intended to run at this rale regularly, as a lesser speed will suii. all requirements. Arrived at the station, Mr M'Lennan invited the visitors to look over the ' grounds. Tho quarters of the bulls and young pedigree stock were inspected with great interest, and the party also had a look over the garden, which as may be imagined, was found to be m perfect order, some of the vegetation being m a very forward state. The visitors were next invited to luncheon, and left (heartily pleased with Mr and Mrs M'Lennan 's kindness. A move was next made for the Carnarvon station, and the party reached town by the 2 p.m. train. The lino was found m very good order. A few places were discovered where a little packing was necessary. This was only to be expected, as the line had so tar not been tested by any weight. The engine, about which so much has been feared, gave every satisfaction. The engine-driver is well satisQed, and is confident it will do all the work required. It is intended to have an official opening of the line on Monday next. A committee; has been formed to take the matter m hand, and the Sandon and Campbelliown people are expected to co-op6rate. It is proposed to iuu a special from Foxton to Carnarvon, leaving' the former place at r 9 30 aim. The exercursionists will then be taken on the tramway to Hickford's corner free ot cost, and whilst the Fox! on people are at the terminus, the engine will be sent down to Carnarvon with such of tho Sandon people as care to go. The line will be opened for regular traffic on the following day.