NELSON. [From the Examiner, September 25.]

New Zealand Spectator and Cook's Strait Guardian, Volume VIII, Issue 778, 2 October 1852, Page 3

NELSON. [From the Examiner, September 25.]

Snow. — Snow, which is a rare occurrence with us in the midst of winter, and has never fallen but twice since we have been in Nelson, fell last night, and corered the whole of the low ground, as well as the hills, in the neigh-

bourhood of the town. A little after sunrise it all disappeared from the flats, and from the neighbouring hills during the day.

Gold Fever. — The Gold Fever has raged more furiously in Nelson during the past week than it ever has done before, and large partita have been out for two or three days searching for the precious metal in the neighbourhood of the town. As yet their search has proved unsuccessful, although the indications were said to be highly encouraging. There is a story of an old man who, on his death-bed, informed his sons that a golden treasure lay hid in one of his fields, which they would be sure to find if they dug for it. The young men followed their father's advice, and dug over the fields so repeatedly and well, that they at last found the treasure their father had promised, and which consisted in abundant harvests. We also can venture to promise every man in this country a treasure at his own door, if he will but dig for it, which he may acquire without risk, and enjoy without danger.

Death by Drowning. — We are very sorry to have to announce the death of a young man named George Simpson, who, in returning to Nelson from Canterbury, in company with a man named Berry, lost his footing in crossing the mouth of the Waiautoa, or Clarence river, and being unable to swim, was drowned. His companion, who saved himself by swimming, obtained assistance from Mr. Truelove's station, and a search was made for the body, which was found the following morning.

Markets. — The demand for flour for the neighbouring settlements has caused wheat to advance to 7s. per bushel, but there has since been a slight decline, and 6s. 6d. to 6s. 9d. is the highest price offered at present. Flour may be quoted at £18 to £19 a ton. Barley and oats are each selling at ss. per bushel ; fresh butter Is. 3d. per lb., cheese lOd. Sawn timber Bs. to 9s. 6d. per 100 feet.